Sorry this took forever! I know, I know, you all want updates sooner, but please remember I have multiple fics; some where more in demand, and I also have college and other things happening in my personal life I have to deal with. I'll do my best to do more but please understand that it takes time to make sure each chapter bests the last! I hope you enjoy this one as I've been working on it all year! Happy New Year! Felicidades everyone!

Talia had never felt so awkward than she did now. Auriana's upper bunk was more than uncomfortable and when she had first gotten there, covered with stuffed animals and trinkets, not to mention her secret snack stash. Her dreams had been plagued and she was still restless. Also, the Voltan snores like a freight train. Groaning, she sat up, rubbing at the area beneath her bangs. She did her best to crawl out from the space, landing awkwardly and stumbling to her knees. She let out a huff of annoyance as the redheaded princess continued to dream in her sea of pillows and toys. She made her way to her room, rapping on the door. She was met with silence, and she immediately tensed.

"Mephisto? Praxina?"

She knocked again, and when she got no response she took to opening it. The bedroom was a mess, with her closet practically emptied onto the floor, the bed unmade. She could feel the panic and anger setting in. Had they gotten their powers back? Had their memories returned? Her eyes widened as she looked around frantically. She had let them into their home! She ran out the door, waking Auriana.

"W-what's going on? Talia..?" The drowsy teen rubbed at her eyes.

"The twins are gone! We need to check on Iris!" Talia frowned, crossing the hall. That was enough to wake the Voltan, who, though slightly dazed, followed her to Iris' bedroom. The blonde was still deep in her slumber, Amaru next to her releasing tiny little snores.

"She looks fine to me." Auriana yawned, scratching at her head, trying her best to keep her hair out of knots.

"Iris! Wake up! The twins are missing!" Talia whispered, shaking her freckled shoulder. Both Iris and Amaru blinked in surprise, and Iris let out a scream at her unwelcomed guests.

"Talia? Auriana? What's going on?" Iris rubbed at her face as Amaru stretched beside her.

"The twins aren't in my room and they left it in complete chaos! We have to find them before they get themselves into trouble, or worse, become trouble." Talia explained, surprising Iris.

"Wait! Do you guys smell that?" Iris sniffed, earning confused glances between Auriana and Talia.

"Smell what, Iris?" Auriana frowned, checking her breath.

"It smells like...pancakes!" Iris grinned, throwing off the covers.

"Oh! I love pancakes!" Auriana ran after the excitable hero.

"Girls! Wait!" Talia groaned, chasing after them.

The three were met with an unusual image. The twins were far from gone. Aunt Ellen greeted them enthusiastically as she sat a bowl of fruit on the table, dancing to the rhythm of Celebrate. Praxina was setting the table with a bored expression, while Mephisto moved his body to the rhythm, the frilly pink apron swaying with his hips as he flipped another pancake.

"Good morning, girls!"

"Good morning?" Iris looked to the princesses in confusion, "Is Mephisto wearing my apron?"

"That I am, Your Royal Princessness!" He grinned, "And I'm rocking it!"

"What's going on here? I thought you two left." Talia demanded, crossing her arms.

"Why would we leave?" Praxina rolled her eyes.

"Are those mine?" Talia gaped at the pale sorceress, who was wearing a red tank, a dark blue jeans, and black cowboy boots.

"No, they're the purple creatures." Praxina smirked, "I'm surprised you own something that isn't blue. If it makes you feel better, the boots are too big."

"How could that possibly make me feel better? You wrecked my room!" Talia glared harshly.

"An improvement if you ask me." Praxina grinned as the girls held back their leader.

"Now, Praxina, play nice. Talia was kind enough to offer her room and clothes to you." Aunt Ellen scolded, wagging her finger, "Besides, you have your share of flaws too."

The woman pointed at a plate of black, stone-like patties, the remainder of what was left from Praxina's attempts at cooking. The group laughed as Prax pouted, sitting at the table.

"Alright, Mephisto. I think we've made enough. You remember how to cut off the stove?" Aunt Ellen smiled, finishing setting the table. Mephisto nodded enthusiastically, making sure to cut off the burner.

"Oh, I just love pancakes! Oh! We can put strawberries, and whipped cream, oh! And chocolate! I love chocolate!" Auriana giggled, bounding over to the table.

"Isn't that a bit excessive?" Talia smirked, tilting her head.

The orange magica gasped, "There's never such a thing as too much toppings!"

"Exactly! If I didn't know better, I'd say you're a woman after my own heart." Mephisto grinned, removing his apron. He wore a pair of dark, slate jeans and a blue and grey v-neck, which he dusted off his hands against. Auriana and Iris giggled as Talia groaned and Praxina gagged.

"Which ones are strawberries anyways?" Praxina questioned, looking a bit lost at the choices in front of her.

"Oh! Those are these red ones, with the little seeds all over them." Iris smiled, picking one and handing it to the curious royal. She eyed the fruit suspiciously, squinting at it as she turned it over between her fingers. She flinched at the snickers erupting from the others.

"It's just a fruit, Prax, you don't have to intimidate it!" Mephisto laughed, filling his plate.

"D-don't stare at me, you idiots!" Praxina colored, embarrassed as they turned their heads to their own plates with laughter. Taking a deep breath, she bit into the fruit, chewing it slowly. The group turned to her expectantly, pausing in their own meals. Her eyes grew bright and a pleasant look of surprise came across her features. She looked dazzled by the sweet and tangy flavors as she swallowed.

"Amazing."

Mephisto grinned as the group laughed, with Talia sighing in amusement. Iris giggled from next to her, agreeing that they were her favorites.

"Aw! Praxina's so cute!" Auriana cooed, hugging the girl.

"Oh God, she's ruining this for me!" Praxina groaned, squirming.

"Oh! Iris, dear, I was thinking you and the girls could take the twins to the outlet mall to get some clothes for their stay. Once again, I'm so sorry they lost your luggage at the airport! How awful!" Aunt Ellen frowned, looking to the twins.

"The what port?" Mephisto raised an eyebrow, earning a facepalm from Talia.

"Of course!" Iris interrupted, "We'd love to! We can even stop by the smoothie bar and thank Nathaniel."

Talia giggled, nibbling on her bacon, "Once again, can your crush be anymore obvious?"

"Yeah, sorry, I still don't know what you mean." Iris grinned, taking a bite of her pancakes.

)0(

It was quiet. Too quiet. The rogue thief had been in and out of the cave hoping to meet up with his possible partners in crime, but he had managed to miss them every time. Not that he minded working on his own, but his boss was less than pleased with the idea of letting them all run rampant on Earth.

Lev peered into the darkness as he landed in front of the cave opening, entering cautiously. It was pitch black until he ran into a barrier, falling back on his butt. He blinked in surprise before smirking. The twins were smarter than he heard.

Grinning, he used a spell to break the barrier, only to trigger its defenses. It sent him flying backwards, and he winced at the pain that coursed through his body. He groaned, rubbing at his head. Okay, bad plan. This didn't make any since! Gramorr sent him here to help them! He was not getting paid enough for this. And he was going to let him know...

)0(

They were 10 minutes into the twins gawking at the outlet shops, the trio of princesses had managed to drag them inside.

"It's so magical!" Mephisto grinned, bouncing in place.

"It's like a small castle! And everybody comes here? Even the commoners?" Praxina looked genuinely surprised.

"Um, yes? Though here on Earth, we're all technically 'commoners'. No one knows we're royalty, and its best we keep it that way so Gramorr doesn't find us." Iris explained, leading the group up the escalator.

"Whoa, this moves? Cool!" Mephisto grinned, bounding up the steps only to fall into his sister, who less than gracefully slammed into Iris, crashing to the floor.

"Whoa, are you guys okay?"

Praxina groaned, rubbing at her skull before noticing an extended hand. Stormy eyes met sky blue, and Praxina's eyes widened at the kindness they offered. The stranger's caramel locks fell around his face and he held his hand out to her like a gentleman. She glared at him. She didn't ask for earthly perfection to be thrown in her face first thing in the morning. How dare he catch her off guard like that? Hell no, she didn't want his help. She could get up on her own.

"I'm fine." She muttered, "Move it or lose it."

Iris intervened quickly, "Well, I could use a hand, thanks Zack."

The boy smiled as they stood, helping the blonde taking his hand as he pulled her to her feet.

"Zack, this is Auriana's cousin, Praxina, and her twin brother, Mephisto. Praxina, Mephisto, this is a friend of ours from school, Zack Brady. He's an amazing guitarist." Iris explained, gesturing between the two. The girls looked between the twins nervously, hoping that neither side would sense the connection between the three.

"Nice to meet you!" Zack smiled, extending his hand. The twins stared at it, confused, before Mephisto shook it.

"You too! Thanks for catching my sister!" Mephisto laughed.

"You were the one who pushed me you moron!" Praxina seethed, turning red and pushing him away from her.

"It's fine, I didn't mind. N-not that, I mean, what are you guys up to?" Zack grinned, scratching at the back of his head.

"We're helping find the twins some clothes for their stay. They're new to Sunny Bay and their stuff got lost on the way here." Iris smiled, gesturing to the group.

"Sounds like a bummer. Sorry you guys lost your stuff. Is there anything I can do to help?" Zack looked to the twins, and they flinched at the innocence he carried with one glance.

"I suppose it would be a lot of help with Mephisto to have another guy to talk to..." Iris looked back at the girls, one making an 'x' with her arms and the other giving her a thumbs up.

"Sure thing. Why don't we split up. You ladies can take Praxina and I can head out with Mephisto." Zack offered, and the twins looked wary at the idea of separating.

"Excuse us for a sec." Talia interrupted, pulling Iris to Auriana, "Iris! This is a bad idea! Mephisto's the one who stole his guitar in the first place! I don't trust him to go off on his own, and Zack is too nice to control him."

"Exactly. Which is why you should go with them." Iris smiled encouragingly across their huddle.

"Absolutely not!" Talia scowled, crossing her arms.

"Aw, c'mon Talia! Take one for the team! Besides, you're alway finished shopping before the rest of us, and you and Praxina don't exactly get along. It's like being back home in Volta, except with less siblings. And nicer siblings..." Auriana grinned, eyeing the brunette.

Talia groaned, "But I barely know Zack and Mephisto's so...he's such a-"

"Flirt?" Iris offered.

"Moron." Talia gave the Ephedian heiress a smug smile.

"Well, Zack seems really sweet and he likes music and you both play the guitar." Auriana offered, looking sympathetic.

Iris grinned, "That's a great point, Auriana. Talk about that. Maybe you'll have more in common than you think."

"Yeah, and what do you suppose I do with that?" Talia extended a hand at the twins, with Praxina being held back by Zack as she attempted to attack her brother, who was making kissy faces at her and a now very red Zack.

"Suffer in silence." Iris and Auriana simultaneously agreed, the three already completely done with the duo's antics.

"Alright, break it up you two. Behave yourselves!" Talia snapped, stopping the siblings.

"Yeah, it's time to have some fun!" Auriana cheered from next to her.

"Mephisto, stop teasing your sister! Zack, you can...put Praxina down. If she starts fighting she loses an outfit, got it!" Talia glared at the twins who nodded.

"She said put me down." Praxina growled, with Zack quickly setting the small teen back on her feet.

"Great! Now, if you two can behave yourselves, you can each get one thing on us. Okay?" Iris offered, wagging her finger at the two.

"What kind of thing?" Praxina raised a manicured brow, looking skeptically at the pink clad girl.

"Can I get that thing?" Mephisto pointed at a restaurant's mascot alligator.

"You can't buy people, Mephisto." Iris giggled, shaking her head.

"That's not a real monster?" Mephisto looked disappointed, "But it's so ugly!"

"Ugh, c'mon, before you kill all of my brain cells!" Talia groaned, grabbing the boy by his shirt and heading towards the stores.

"Guess that's my cue, we'll meet you guys at the food court in a couple hours, okay." Zack waved, following the two down the walkway.

"Okay! See you later!" Iris waved after them.

"This is gonna be so awesome!" Auriana grinned, "I just love shopping! Earth has so many cool things!" Auriana gushed, grabbing Praxina's hand.

"Why do I feel like I'm sensing danger." Praxina's eyes narrowed.

"Probably because Auriana and I are pretty hardcore shoppers. Don't worry, you're in the best hands." Iris grinned, linking arms with Praxina.

Auriana followed suit, throwing a fist in the air, "Are you ready to shop 'til we drop?!"

"I'm not getting out of this am I?" Praxina frowned, looking to Iris.

"Nope."

Praxina let out a deep sigh. This was gonna be harder than she thought.

)0(

Talia was practically seething and they were only 10 minutes in. So far, Mephisto had come out naked twice, thrown clothes at her, called the retail worker 'servant woman', attacked a mannequin he said looked at him wrong, and kept walking out without paying. He was the definition of embarrassing and Zack spent a good while explaining to him that he was not behaving appropriately.

"You alright, Talia?"

The brunette jumped at Zack's voice, and offered a sheepish smile, "I'm fine."

"The twins are pretty interesting. Mephisto seems really-"

"Irritating? Childish? Ridiculously picky?" Talia offered.

"I was going to say outgoing. A bit spoiled, but fun." Zack smiled, taking a seat on the bench next to her.

"He's insane." Talia frowned, "He hasn't been able to make up his mind on anything! Who takes this long to shop?!"

"Maybe he's having trouble. Not all of us know what we like unless we try it. Or maybe he's not use the way things work here. You're from another country, right?"

Talia smiled awkwardly, "Oh! Yes, of course. It's a...reeeeally small island. Way east."

"I see. It must've been hard for you and the girls, coming to Sunny Bay all alone. Life is a bit different here. Maybe he just needs someone who understands that. You're a very patient woman, Talia." Zack looked to her expectantly, and Talia flushed with embarrassment.

With a heavy sigh, she closed her eyes, "Fine. I'll try to be a little more tolerant, but what makes you think he'll even listen to me?"

"Doesn't he already?" Zack leaned onto his knees, a knowing smile on his face. He nodded towards the door of the changing room. Talia groaned, standing and knocking on the door.

"Mephisto? You...alright in there?"

"Huh?! Oh! Yeah...just...just great!" Mephisto laughed awkwardly.

"You're a terrible liar." Talia smirked, crossing her arms.

"What? Me? Lie? As if, I am a great liar! That is like, my forte, Princess!" He boasted and she rolled her eyes, earning a snicker from Zack.

"What's the problem, man?" Zack called out.

"Open up." Talia pulled at the door, earning a squeak.

"T-Talia! S-stop! Pervert! You can't see me naked!" Mephisto rambled, blocking the door.

"Excuse me?! As if I'd ever want to see that! What's going on with you? You're taking for ever!"

"I said it was nothing! I wanna talk to Zack! He's the nice one!"

Talia threw her hands up in exasperation, giving Zack a look of irritation. Zack snickered, signaling her to pretend he's on his phone.

"Zack's taking a call. Whatever it is, I'm sure I can help." Talia looked to the door expectantly.

After a long pause, Mephisto released a sigh, "Fine. I...I don't know what to pick."

"Clarification, please."

"I mean, I know what I like, what I'm suppose to like, but I'm trying things that I wouldn't have even looked twice at, ya know?"

Talia leaned against the back door, making eye contact with Zack, who seemed to be gaining some understanding.

"Like, what if it doesn't work with what Praxina picks? I keep falling into these dark colors and clean cut clothing, but it's almost suffocating. Then the rest are so flashy and bright. It's a bit chaotic in here. I don't know which side to choose." Mephisto leaned against the door, looking down at his feet with frustration. He didn't know who he wanted to be anymore.

"Don't worry about what Praxina chooses. Just because you two are twins doesn't mean you're going to like the same things, Mephisto. Trust me, just because your sister does something doesn't mean it's for you to do exactly. We develop on our own time, not by somebody else's. What is it you like?" Talia crossed her arms, not bothering to acknowledge the surprised expression Zack was giving her. Why should he be? She was trying to be civil.

"Talia's right. Right now, we're looking at what you like. Why don't you pop open the door and we'll look at this together. Try to figure things out!" Zack offered, moving to stand by the door.

Mephisto paused, but unlocked the door after thinking it over. Talia let out a yelp at the sudden absence of the hard surface supporting her and fell onto the floor with a thump. The boys winced at the impact.

"You okay there, Princess? Or are you finally falling for me?" Mephisto grinned, looking down at her. Talia let out an annoyed groan before the two teens helped her to her feet.

"Wow, it's really a mess in here..." Zack scratched at the back of his head, looking at the garments strued across the tiny space.

"Not for long. We'll start small. Mephisto! Find whatever you disliked and didn't fit and give it to Zack. I need basics. Favorite colors, things you like, sizes. And for the love of Xeris, Mephisto, put on some pants. We will not lose this battle! Let's go!" Talia ordered, sending the boys to scurry about. Zack gave Talia an amused grin and for the moment, she let him have his victory.

)0(

Iris and Auriana were having a field day. They had been to over seven different shops and Praxina was proving to be a worthy adversary when it came to rejecting anything lighter than purple. So far the majority of what Praxina had chosen was black, black, and more black and the heroines refused to dress her like a villain.

"What about this one? It's super cute! It would totally compliment red hair too!" Auriana grins, holding up a black crop top with sunflowers decorating every angle.

"If I had my magic right now, I'd burn it to a crisp." Praxina scowled, with Iris giggling from the other side of the rack.

"Well, I'll just have to wear it myself to protect it then!" Auriana giggled, throwing it over her arm.

"Auriana!" Iris laughed, "We're suppose to be helping Praxina find some clothes!"

"Oh, I know, I know! Ohh! What about this one! It just screams 'I'm a bad girl'! Rawr!" Auriana teased, holding up an inky leather mini skirt.

"Auriana, we're trying not to put any assumptions into this. Just because Praxina use to be our enemy doesn't mean we should dress her like-"

"I want it." Praxina interrupted, eying the skirt in Auriana's hands.

"Really?" Iris perked up, "Don't you think it's a little dangerous?"

"'Don't you think it's a little dangerous?'" Praxina mocked in a nasally, high pitched tone, "What? Like your pink and purple pilgrim dress isn't?"

"I don't sound like that." Iris pouted, rubbing at her arm.

"Look, I know you two are trying to help, but I know what I like. I may not be evil, but I'm definitely no angel. That's who I am, and that's what I like." Praxina smirked as she took the skirt from Auriana, cradling the skirt. "I'm thinking combat boots and fishnets."

"Oooor, some killer red heels! Femme Fatale style!" Auriana added, taking Praxina's hand.

"Now you're speaking my language."

Both redheads looked to Iris, waiting for her to join in. Iris looked between the racks before smiling and holding up a charcoal colored crop top with 'BEWITCHING' printed across the front in white.

"Maybe add in a cute leather jacket?" The blonde smiled, earning a grin from the two.

"That'd be perfect!" Auriana cheered, "Let's see what else we can find! We gotta make sure Praxina looks amazing, especially with you-know-who around."

"You-know-what?" Praxina arched an eyebrow as she shuffled through a couple dresses.

Iris and Auriana smiled sweetly, "Zack and Praxina sitting in a tree-!"

"What?! Are you two insane?! We just met!" Praxina blushed, nearly screeching.

"He so totally thinks you're cute!" Auriana teased as she held a studded red brassiere in front of Praxina.

"Why should I care? He's a commoner!" Praxina argued, her nose in the air.

"We're all equals here on Earth, Praxina. And besides, Zack's a good guy." Iris added, holding a sheer black button-up over her form.

"I don't want a good guy." Praxina sneered, tossing her head.

"What?" Auriana looked startled by her claim.

The redheaded Voltan exchanged a look of confusion with Iris, who raised paused in her shopping, "But why?"

"Because...because then I'd have to do stupid stuff! L-like holding hands and kissing! I'd have to feel!"

"Don't knock it 'til you try it. Love is a wonderful feeling." Iris smiled encouragingly.

"Ugh, gag me." Praxina groaned, looking away embarrassed.

"He'd probably let you." Auriana shrugged, causing Praxina to turn color.

"Auriana!" Iris blushed, touching her cheek to cool it down.

"I MEANT THE DAMN BRA, YOU RIDICULOUS VOLTAN!" Praxina hissed, stomping her foot and snatching the brassier and throwing it at the ground.

Auriana let out a nervous laugh, "Whoops! Sorry!"

Iris sighed, "On another note, I see a pair of boots that would look killer with this outfit!"

"To the heels! Charge!" Auriana ordered, pulling the girls with her. Praxina and Iris exchanged looks of amusement before letting themselves be dragged along.

)0(

Meanwhile, the boys were breathing a lot easier with Talia's organization skills. They had managed to find a balance between the dark and the light and settled on a pile of what Mephisto had named 'The Treasure Pile'.

"Okay, so what now?" Mephisto frowned, watching curiously as Talia began to hang up the clothing on the wall.

"Now that you've found what you like, try them on and decide what you think goes best together." Talia dusted off her hands before settling her hands on her hips.

"What if I'm not sure?" Mephisto rubbed at his neck, looking back into the room.

"Then we'll be here for you." Talia smiled and laid a hand on his shoulder. His eyes shifted to Zack, who gave him a thumbs up. Mephisto's eyes widened in surprise before his expression softened in a smile, "Thanks guys, I'm touched-"

"Also you're being a weenie." Talia waved him off, exiting the dressing room.

Zack chuckled, "Alright. We'll be out here waiting. Do your best!"

"Okay, give me a second!"

Talia nodded as Zack took the seat next to her. The two brunettes sat in silence before Talia let out a deep sigh, "Not a word."

"I wasn't going to say anything." Zack chuckled, leaning back in his chair.

"He's still troublesome." Talia muttered, but she and Zack both knew he wasn't nearly as bad as he had been. He was certainly temperamental and goofy in his own right, but she'd definitely take it over bloodthirsty evil minion. Besides, when he had proper, calm instruction, he was actually tolerable.

"Okay! I'm coming out!" Mephisto called, making her jump. He stepped out shyly, pushing his bangs from his face. He wore a white and black jacket with rolled up sleeves and a light jade v-neck t-shirt. His dark jeans were fitted to his body and it took every fiber of her being to not ogle the poor boy; he looked nervous enough. Was it really Mephisto?

"Dude! Nice jacket!" Zack grinned, standing enthusiastically.

"You think so?" Mephisto brightened, straightening a little.

"Yeah, man. What do you think, Talia?" Zack asked, raising an eyebrow.

Talia's eyes widened as both men turned to her expectantly. She looked to Zack who nudged his head in Mephisto's direction. He seemed just as nervous as she felt, as she wasn't use to being asked about her thoughts in boys by boys, so granted, this was an odd position for her. The glimmer of hope in Mephisto's jade eyes was all the more pressing and as she looked him over, she realized she couldn't find much negative to say about the way he looked. With her decisive nod, the two boys swallowed nervously.

"It'll do."

They went slack-jawed, both eventually allowing themselves to react. Mephisto's smile made her grimace and Zack looked between the two of them with deep confusion before Mephisto grabbed him by the shirt, "Dude! Did you just hear what I think I just heard?!"

"Uhhh, pretty sure you and I are seeing this pretty differently." Zack looked skeptical and definitely uncomfortable, not sure of whether Talia's response was good or bad.

"She likes the digs, man!" Mephisto beamed, "If she likes it then everyone else has to like it! Gimme a sec! I'll try on another one!"

"Aren't you getting a little worked up?" Talia questioned, her brows furrowing.

"Me? Never! But just you wait, I'm gonna find one that 'wow's' even you, Talia! This is just the beginning!" Mephisto grinned, running back into the dressing room and closing the door with a slam. The whole store seemed to sigh in relief at the fading tension the group had brought and both Talia and Zack fell into their seats exasperated. Zack and Talia looked to each other before grinning, with Zack brushing his bangs from his eye, "Look what you started!"

"It's not my fault he's like this! Take it with a grain of salt." Talia smirked, crossing her arms and legs and leaning back to relax.

"Ha ha, yeah, I guess I'll have to; he's a good kid." Zack smiled generously, before pausing, "I don't have too many friends that are as honest as him. It's refreshing. I'd be open to hanging out with him, I could even introduce him to some of the guys."

"I don't know if that's such a good idea…" Talia frowned, stiffening a bit.

"Why not? He seems pretty cool. If he's hanging with you guys, he must have a good heart."

Talia still looked uneasy over the idea, "He'll have to go away sometime soon…"

"Oh, I see. Do you think you, Iris, and Auriana will be friends when you two leave?"

"Of course we will!" Talia immediately stated, sitting up and staring as if he had slapped her. Of course they'd be friends. Becoming friends with Mephisto is a totally different thing. Mephisto is evil, spell or no spell! Deep down he's selfish, and arrogant, and why the hell is he posing?!

"Are you wow'd yet, Princess?" Mephisto grinned, arching his body dramatically and running his hand through his bangs. Ironically, his butt had never look better out of those stupid black poof pants he called fashion, the boy should wear jeans more often, but by Ephedia he looked ridiculous. She let out a small snort before laughing outright at his posture with Zack not far behind. Mephisto began to strike an array of gaudy poses simply to keep them laughing and for a moment, he wasn't all that evil after all.

)0(

Iris paced the floor as she waited for Praxina to finish changing. The dark sorceress was slowly opening up to their friendship, and had only threatened to burn Auriana twice, which was much less than earlier this morning, so, you know, progress.

"Oh!" Auriana swung the door open to her dressing room, twirling about in a vibrant gold sundress, "This is so fun! I can't wait to see what Praxina puts together!"

"I know! This is so much fun!" Iris beamed, "Who knew the twins could be so nice?"

"And they are both so adorable!" Auriana squeaked, trying on the sun hat someone had left on the reject rack.

"You think so?"

"Totally. Mephisto's really funny and kind of hot. And then Praxina is really shy and fun to tease! I never thought I'd say this but I really am liking them! It's a shame it won't last! We could all be really good friends." Auriana smiled softly into the mirror as she adjusted her hat. It was definitely nice to have friends from back home. Playing pretend was really hard sometimes.

"I swear to Ephedia, if you call me cute one more time…"

The girls turned to see Praxina had gone with the crop top and skirt Iris had picked out, and a red plaid button up was tied around her waist.

"C-cute!" Auriana squealed, jumping to hug a mortified Praxina.

"Ugh, get off!"

"You look amazing!" Iris clasped her hands together. "We're definitely buying it!"

Praxina brightened at the compliment, "Y-you think?"

"Definitely! Go on and try another one! I'll try to calm Auriana." Iris giggled, with Auriana playfully sticking out her tongue.

"Okay…"

Praxina quickly went into the dressing room, kicking the door. Her cheeks burned and she smiled to herself.

So this is what friends were like.

)0(

It wasn't long until time had passed and the group relocated in the food court. Mephisto insisted on wearing his new clothes and the store's employees were so thankful he was leaving, they let him.

"So, I get to pick something, right? What can I get?" Mephisto grinned, dying Talia expectantly.

"I don't know, you caused quite a mess for Zack and I…" Talia gave Zack a knowing look and he chuckled as Mephisto let out a groan.

"Aw, come on Talia, please? I'll be on my most princely behavior ever! I promise!" Mephisto begged, clasping his hands together.

"Why don't we get back with the girls, then we'll decide." Talia sighed, looking at him with pleading eyes. The boy had exhausted her enough to last a lifetime. He took note of her tone, his cheeks going pink.

"Well, today was fun! I got to spend time with you guys! My new friends!" Mephisto grinned, throwing an arm over their shoulders.

"Oh no, he gave us a title." Talia teased, a smug look on her face.

"Looks like it's too late to stop us now, Talia. Bro code and all." Zack grinned, "Let's become good friends, Mephisto!"

"Really?! You mean it?!"

Talia gaped in horror at the exchange. What the hell is happening here?!

"Sure, I could use a cool friend."

"That's awesome! I'm cool and a friend!" Mephisto brightened, looking as if he had won a grand prize.

"Pfft. On what planet?" Talia snickered, earning a glare.

"Don't be jealous, Talia. I'll still have time for you, too." Mephisto smirked, and she recognized his grin, but it seemed more playful than menacing.

"Sorry, my schedules full. Dance rehearsal and all that-"

"Then I'll just have to watch! You know, maybe I could teach you a thing or two." He flipped his bangs from his face and Talia twitched at his pretentious attitude.

"Please, I'd dance circles around you any day."

"Please do, Princess." Mephisto smirked, winking at her. Talia's lips parted as she glared at him, astonished by his insinuation. Zack snickered at them, but paused as he took notice of the girls headed their way. He tapped Mephisto's shoulder, gaining the rivaling pair's attention.

The girls had done quite a number on Praxina. Her hair was pulled back and her bands were swept to the side to show her face. Auriana and Iris had indulged in their makeover giving fantasies and made sure to complete her outfit with fresh makeup and accessories. Praxina seemed embarrassed by the stares of passing shoppers and the shock on her twin's face didn't help.

"W-wow! Prax? Is it really you?!" Mephisto gaped, pushing his shades from his eyes to get a better look. Praxina blushed, meeting his eyes before catching the stares of Talia and Zack and Boeing her head.

"L-lets just go eat or something!" she stomped away in her new combat boots, plopping into a booth designed to look like a vintage ruby red convertible.

"You look amazing! I like the shoes!" Mephisto added, sitting in a chair at the small table next to them as the girls shared the booth.

"Yeah, you look stunning!" Zack smiled, causing Praxina to look away in a huff.

"Whatever…"

"Wait, so what are our prizes? Talia won't tell me!" Mephisto stuck his tongue out at the brunette, who gave him a half lidded glare.

Iris giggled, "Okay, okay. This was Auriana's idea. Since we don't know how long this will...well you know, when you'll leave we'd like to keep in contact in case you need us."

"We won't always be here to help you." Talia added.

"Right. So we got you these!" Auriana grinned, holding up a two smart phones. She handed the red one with a transparent case covered in black swirls to Praxina.

"A metal box with lights. Great."

"What is it?" Mephisto grinned excitedly as he admired the black case. His fingers ran over the unusual green patterns that created the image of a cobra.

"Do they not have phones where you're from?" Zack looked to Auriana.

"Not exactly. We usually communicate with cry-"

"There's an manual that's quite helpful when learning how to use one." Talia interrupted, giving Auriana a look of irritation. The Voltan rubbed at the back of her head sheepishly.

"Its really cool though. You can talk to people and watch videos. You can even take selfies!" Auriana explained.

"Really?!" Mephisto eyed the phone with awe.

"What's a selfie?" Praxina's brow worked with curiosity.

"Its when you take a picture of yourself. Do you guys wanna take one?" Iris offered, looking between the twins.

"How do you do it?" Mephisto scratched at his chin.

"Here; press this button that looks like a camera, then press the rotating arrows." Iris instructed, maneuvering through the tech with ease.

"Whoa! It's my face!" Mephisto gasped.

"Terrifying, isn't it." Talia grinned, earning a scowl.

"Let's all get in it! It'll be our first official friendship selfie!" Iris smiled as the group gathered round. "Just smile at this little spot and press the silver button."

"This one?"

"Yep!"

"Okay...here we go!"

In a flash, they were able to relax. They rushed over the picture, leading to Praxina wanting some of her own. Pretty soon both twins were satisfied and after a much needed meal, it was time to part ways.

"This has been fun, but I really gotta get home. Parents are major strict with my curfew and all. They still want me to get that medical degree…" Zack stretched, rising from his seat to take hold of his guitar case.

"What's a curfew?" Mephisto raised a brow, munching on his second burger.

"Uh, well, I have to be home by a certain time." Zack blushed, rubbing at the back of his neck, embarrassed at the explanation.

"Just skip it." Praxina shrugged, "Who needs a 'curfew'?"

"You haven't met my parents." Zack chuckled, "But why don't we all hang out tomorrow? My uncle's cafe is having a jam session. We have random sign ups to perform and we'd definitely love having LoliRock there."

"Really?" Auriana snapped her head up from her sundae before slapping away Mephisto's cherry stealing hand.

"That'd be awesome! We'd love to come!" Iris added, sharing a smile with Talia.

"Alright, we'll see you at six! I'll message everyone with the details tonight. You all still have my number?"

"We don't!" Praxina interrupted, standing abruptly. She paused as the girls sent her surprised and amused looks. She cleared her throat, "Not that it's that big of a deal. I could live without it."

"Oh, here, I'll put it into your phone. You can give it to Mephisto later."

"If he doesn't die swallowing that burger whole." Talia gagged, earning a giggle from the rest of her team. Mephisto nudged Auriana, hinting for the girls to watch the exchange between Zack and Praxina.

"Zack and Praxina sitting in at tree…" Auriana and Iris whispered, earning an amused look from Talia, who rolled her eyes at the antics.

"Alright, we're all set. I hope you don't mind, I set one of your pictures as my icon so you know its me. Is it okay if I do the same? You'll have to send me those pictures too. I'd like to see them." Zack smiled, and Praxina gave her best, but was visibly shaken.

"Y-yeah. I mean, if I remember. I have a lot on my mind." She turned away from him, glaring at the occupants of the table.

Zack chuckled, "Alright. I'll see you guys tomorrow. It was nice meeting you!"

Mephisto and the girls waved enthusiastically as he left, with Prax pausing and looking over her shoulder at his retreating form. She wasn't sure what she thought, but it was certainly a strange feeling for her.

"Alright, let's finish up and get you guys to the hotel!" Iris grinned encouragingly. She took note at Praxina's silence and offered a kind smile, and much to her surprise, she saw a tiny tug at the sorceress' lips.

The hotel was not too far from the concert hall. It was a warm and modern inn and the twins were surprised at how well kept it was. Iris had warned them to be nice and that they'd be sure to bring them good from Aunt Ellen's when they could. The girls were quick to make their exit, mentioning the need to get a rehearsal in before nightfall.

"You've got all our numbers, so don't hesitate to call is if you need anything or if you're in trouble." Iris reminded heading out the door.

"Yeah, yeah, we heard you the first time. We're not gonna burn down the place. We don't have any magic…" Praxina rolled her eyes, following her.

"I know, but we just want to be careful." Iris assured her, "Oh! By the way, I know I wasn't that helpful earlier. We've been enemies for so long, I didn't want to offend you."

"Everything offends me." Praxina shrugged with a smirk. Iris smiled softly. She wasn't 100% sure, but she'd take it as a comment of comfort.

"I know, but, I wanted to make up for it." Iris grinned, digging in her purse.

She pulled out a small silver chain with a red heart and black bat wings, "Its a phone charm! I know I don't completely understand you, evil or not, but I want to try, and I want to be your friend."

Praxina's eyes widened as she watched Iris hook the charm to her phone. The heiress pulled back with a smile as Praxina lifted her phone to get a good look at it.

"Did Mephisto get one?"

"Oh...no, I didn't get one. Do you think he'll want one?" Iris raised an eyebrow, looking to the witch curiously.

"No...no, I was just wondering. Th...tha…" Praxina cleared her throat, "I…"

"Your welcome." Iris smiled knowingly, laying a hand on her shoulder. Praxina's expression softened as she clenched the phone, nodding and waving goodbye before heading inside. She took a deep breath on the other side of the door. What a day.

"I like these girls!" Mephisto grinned, swiping over his phone, "Look! The Voltan cutie showed me this cool game! I can blow up candy! Whatever that is…"

"It won't last. Her Majesty is tolerable, but the other two are beyond irritating." Praxina frowned, walking over and plopping down on the bed next to her brother.

"What?! Auriana is so sweet and fun! And Talia's really cute and fun to mess with!" Mephisto grinned, pausing in his game to open his gallery and look through the pictures.

"One hugs to much and the other yells all the time!"

"You yell all the time!"

"At least I'm pretty enough to get away with it." Praxina huffed, rolling her eyes.

"Talia's plenty pretty!" Mephisto argued, grinning at a picture of the Xerin eating with a confused expression as Iris laughed. All of their friends were really cute.

"Are you blushing?!" Praxina gawked, staring at her brother.

"Not as much as you were! Zack and Praxina ki-AHHH!" Mephisto screamed as Praxina kicked him off the bed.

"Shut it! They aren't our friends! Don't forget they're the ones who took away our memories and out magic!"

"They said they were sorry!" Mephisto pouted, rubbing at the back of his head.

"Sorry? That doesn't fix it! None of this fixes it!" Praxina growled, eying her phone charm, "I can't believe we're even in this mess to begin with!"

"Well," Mephisto stood, "at least we're in it together. That's what's important."

He offered a reassuring smile and Praxina sighed. He was right. They could've been torn apart. She couldn't handle that. And she supposed, just maybe, the Ephedian princess would keep her promise. If she was honest, she liked her.

Even just a little bit.

Well. There it is!

Please R&R!