Lyra`s hooves danced across the lyre, as she struck her first chords for the night.
The moon shone in the sky
The lyre floated in front of her
Glowing in it's magical field
Reflecting the delicate light
The night was calm
The wind was still
A chill was in the air
From the winter just passed
A sweet smell rose up
From the freshly bloomed flowers
And the night rang
With the sound of her music
She looked around
And scanned the crowd
It was small for the night
But she was accustomed to that
She looked up at the sky
The stars coming out
The moon looking down
And forgot the crowd
She sped up her strumming
Growing into a crescendo
And the wind picked up
As natures reply
Something on the ground caught her eye
The mayor walked by
She had been looking for that pony for a while
She had to talk to her
She needed to ask ...
But the music came first
She caught her lapse of thought
Gave the mayor a quick smile
And let the music take her once more
She poured out her emotion
Through the strings of the lyre
Letting sorrow rise up
As the clouds covered the moon
The world was bathed in darkness
But the music rang on
Slow, sad, and solemn
The music rang on
As the notes reached their climax
Pulling agony from each string
As the clouds opened up
And the rain fell down
She quickly slowed the song
Bringing it to an end
And let the last, somber chord
Ring out into the night
Lyra only had enough time to stand and take a bow, before the few ponies gathered around ran for cover. Such a storm wasn't expected to come for another few hours but there was nothing she could do about the ruined performance. Gathering up her saddlebags, she moved under the covered overhang in front of town hall.
"Lyra" came a call from a cream-colored earth pony. She turned around to see Bonbon running under the overhang where she was standing. "how was the turnout?"
"Small, as usual" The mint colored unicorn replied, somewhat dejected by the impromptu ending of her performance.
"A shame the storm came early, I closed up shop early and was really looking forward to this one" she sighed. "Oh well, I guess we can go home early."
"I may not have a performance, but I still need to practice. You can head home, don't worry about me." Town hall was closed at this time of night, so she wouldn't disturb anypony if she just stayed here.
"I'll stay. It's been far to long since I've hear you play"
"You don't have to do that."
"But I want to"
And so the sound of her lyre filled the air once more, mixed in with the splattering of rain drops as the 2 ponies sat on the steps of town hall. Since there was no audience, she decided to start with scales. Boring, yes, but absolutely necessary to improve upon technique. As the notes rose in both pitch and volume, she tried to let the music envelop her once more; however the events of that night seemed ever present in her mind, and brought to light the futility of her past year. She performed almost daily for the past year, but the crowd was never more than the handful like she had on that night. She practiced scales regularly, improved her technique, and mastered even the hardest of pieces, but was no closer to playing in Canterlot, to achieving her dream.
"Lyra" came the voice of the pony sitting beside here, "you seem out of it. What's troubling you?"
"I've been practicing for years now. YEARS and nopony appreciates all the hard work, time, and dedication I put into my music."
"Not nopony. All of them gather around you each night appreciate it. When I'm there I see the joy it brings them to listen to your music, and when I'm not I see the smiles on their faces as they walk home. Every night they look forward to your performances. They all appreciate your music. I appreciate your music."
"A handful of ponies does not compare to an entire stadium coming out to hear my music." She replied. Bonbon could hear the passion for her music slipping from her voice, and her playing.
"Please Lyra, tell me your dream once more"
At that she stopped playing and looked into her best friends eyes. "I've told you it many times before, I'm sure you remember"
"Yes, but do YOU remember?"
That struck something deep inside her. All of those years of practicing, the late nights sitting in the streets, the hours spent perfecting each and every phrase. It is easy to lose sight of your dream when it's buried under hours of daily practice, and doesn't seem any closer then it was years ago. But it was her dream, and she would never let it go.
"Ever since I was a filly, and picked up a lyre for the first time, I dreamed of performing in the Canterlot Theater. My parents would take me there regularly and say 'look Lyra, that'll be you some day'. I idolized all of the players that got to play on that magnificent stage, and waited for the day it would be my turn. One day, it'll be me up on that stage. I'll look out over the crowd and see the looks of joy upon their faces. I look around to see a filly in the front row, eyes alight with appreciation. 'That's Lyra' she'd say. 'I want to be like her. One day I want to be up on that stage'. Perhaps I only dreamed the filly because thats how I was when young. I want to inspire the next generation of musicians, like they have inspired me. Then I'll stand up, look around the audience on last time, and take my bow. A shower of flowers falls at my hooves, foremost among them a bouquet of roses. There is no greater honor for a musician than to be showered with roses. The audience will love me for my music, and Ill walk off the stage knowing I made a lasting impact in many ponies hearts."
By the time she finished recounting her dream, tears were threatening to overflow from her eyes. She looked over at Bonbon and embraced her, glad for the support offered by the one pony she could always rely on.
"Thank-you for reminding me of my dream"
"Thank-you for dreaming it"
The last of the raindrops had fallen, and the clouds gave way to clear skies once more, and the moon reflected off of the fresh puddles in the road. For a while the 2 mares just stared out at the night sky from their sheltered area, enjoying the moments they could revel in Lyra's dreams.
"Oh, hello there" Came a voice from behind
Lyra almost jumped at the realization they were no longer alone.
"Didn't mean to frighten you, I just realized I forgot to lock up the town hall before the weekend, so I decided I better come back after the rain had ended". Lyra turned around to find the mayor standing behind her.
"Oh, mayor. I was looking for you. I wanted to thank you once more for allowing me to use the hall to practice Sunday mornings. The acoustics here are much better than they are at home"
"I'm always glad to help our towns greatest up and coming musician! Especially since nobody uses the place till late on the weekends."
"On the weekends? Would it be possible for me to practice here tomorrow morning as well?"
"Of course! Since it's Saturday I doubt anybody will disturb you until lunchtime! Just let me go lock up inside first, but you'll still have access to the main room."
"Thank-you so much. You're are too kind"
As the mayor entered the building, Lyra turned back to Bonbon, patiently sitting beside her.
"Did you hear that? I can practice there for HOURS tomorrow" Lyra said, and excited look on her face.
"I'm just glad you seem to have recaptured your passion for music" replied Bonbon.
"All thanks to you" She smiled back. If it hadn't been for Bonbon being there for her, always encouraging her and supporting her, she didn't know if she would've still held onto that dream. They stood in silence for a while, until Lyra broke it. "It's been a long night, and I am really looking forward to a nice comfortable bed"
"I couldn't agree more"
And the two of them left the town hall and headed home.
.........
Lyra woke with a start. She glanced around the room, looking for any indication of the time. Please let me sleep in a bit longer she thought to herself, but already knowing that wasn't going to happen. She glanced over at the clock she had specifically placed to catch the last rays of moonlight. This way when she woke up early to practice she didn't need to use light to read it. 5:00 am. But the blankets so warm she thought, reluctantly slipping out of bed and quietly making her way downstairs
Picking up her saddlebags she had packed the previous night, and levitating an apple off of the counter, she made her way across town to where she would be practicing for the next 6 hours. The roads were still wet from when she came home, only a few short hours ago. Walking through the silent streets of Ponyville gave her time to think of how tedious the life of a musician was. She mentally picked her way through the last days, and realized she had spent more of her awake time practicing her lyre than not. And more of her time awake than she would have liked. But such dedication is what is required to become great.
She approached the town hall and pulled out the spare key the mayor had given her. It only worked on the front doors, and she'd been a resident of Ponyville all her life, so the mayor had trusted her not to abuse this privilege. She enjoyed these practice sessions far too much to throw them away over some misdeed. Closing the door behind her, she walked to the far end of the room and unpacked her lyre. The last light of the moon was shining into the room, giving it an eerie glow but providing enough light for her to see.
She plucked a major chord on the lyre and let it resonate throughout the building. The pure sound of the lyre immediately filled the room with warmth. Perfect acoustics in here. The last echo of her chord fading away into the distance brought a smile to her face, as she levitated her lyre in front of her and started to play once more
A rich tone filled the room
It echoed off the walls
It reverberated through the ceiling
And landed in her heart
The room filled with her playing
Her passion flooded into every note
Making the world around her come alive
With memories of her dream
As the volume of the music grew
So did the dream from the depths of her mind
She saw the stage beneath her
The theater around her
Her heart started to bet faster
And she sped her lyre playing to match
Her soul and her music were in sync
They were one and the same
She broke into a complex rhythm
And looked around the stage
Seeing the glowing faces of ponies
And the bliss their faces displayed
She rose up once more in pitch
And felt her spirit soar
To play in front of the crowd
To live her dreams
As suddenly as it rose
She brought the music down once more
Expertly controlling the sound
As it flowed through the room
She played with a passion
She though long since lost
At the sight of her dream
Surrounding her once more
She played like this for hours. She played through the setting of the moon, and rising of the sun. She played out every emotion in her heart, and every thought in her head. And she played out the dream in her soul. With the sun raising high to the sky, she struck the final chord of her practice, and let herself sit in the sea of emotions that it brought to life.
"Bravo" Came a cry from the front of the room. She opened her eyes, not having expected any pony to be listening to her.
"Absolutely magnificent. I heard such beautiful playing while I was walking, I couldn't just pass it by. You have an amazing gift" said the brown earth pony, slowly walking towards her from the other side of the room.
"Well, thank-you" Lyra replied. "It's rare that I find a pony as appreciative of my music"
"But that's absurd! You played with such passion it rivals even the elites in Canterlot."
"Thank-you." She said, still wondering who this pony was.
"Oh, where are my manners, I haven't even introduced my self. I am Maestro, the"
"THE OWNER OF THE CANTERLOT THEATER" Lyra shouted, almost in disbelief
"Yes, that would be me. I'm glad you've heard of me"
"Ever since I was a little filly, I dreamed of performing on that stage. I still dream about it, hoping that soon my day to perform there will come."
"Interesting. Well I think it's about time we made that dream come true. I'm organizing a concert next week and would be honored to showcase your talents at the Canterlot Theater. That is if you would be interested?"
Lyra didn't know what to say. She was so overwhelmed with joy, that all she could manage was a "Thank-you"
"Than I'll meet you here tomorrow, and we'll head off to Canterlot" He said curtly, and walked out of the hall.
As soon as he had left, Lyra broke down into tears. Tears of the utmost joy. For so long she had practiced, waiting for her talent to be appreciated. So long she had dedicated her life to the lyre that lay in front of her. And finally, all that hard work was going to pay off. After years of working towards this day, it had come at last. Lyra just lay there for a while, letting her emotions overwhelm her
"I hope I'm not too late to hear some of your awesome playing" Said Bonbon as she walked in the door. She looked up to the stage only to see Lyra lying there, crying. "Lyra, are you OK?" she asked in a concerned voice, running up to her
"Better than Ok" She replied, embracing the cream colored pony. "My dreams coming true"
They just stayed there in silence, the magnitude of such an opportunity weighing down upon them. Time had no meaning among such joy, and though each pony wished it would last forever, unbeknownst to them it swiftly passed by. When Lyra had fully taken in the events of the morning, she gazed upwards at the sun. It`s position in the sky singled it was nearly noon.
"Hey, Bonbon. You want to go and get some lunch? I'm starved!"
"You know I'm never one to turn down a meal!"
They left the town hall together, taking care to lock the doors as they left, and walked down the streets of Ponyville to their favorite restaurant. As they walked Lyra looked around admiring the day. For some reason the sun just seemed brighter, the air fresher. They entered the restaurant and the smells seemed more vivid, the food more delicious. The two of them ate outside in silence; Not the awkward 'what are you thinking' sort of silence, put the peaceful 'thank Celestia for this day' silence. Lyra sat staring out at the sun, see her dream closer than ever before; Bonbon sat staring at Lyra, seeing the unicorn happier than ever before. She wanted to let Lyra be the one to break the silence, and so remained silent in Lyra's euphoria.
"I still can't believe it's finally here" Lyra finally said. "There were times I never thought this moment would come. I didn't give up on my dream - you wouldn't let me. But I started to lose faith. Faith in my ability, in my playing, in myself. I started to doubt my dream would ever unfold as I imagined it."
"But it's here now. You've made all this happen" Bonbon replied. "Your relentless practicing, your unwavering dedication to the music, that's why your dream is coming true. You stayed true to yourself, and now you're getting the opportunity you've sought for so long"
"For so long..." Lyra echoed her last words, lost in thought of everything she had sacrificed up to this point, everything she had given up. Money was always tight from these performances, and she couldn't remember the last time she took time off for herself. Among the memories were too many days where she practiced from before the sun rose until after it had set; too many days alone with her lyre, go over every single pattern. She truly loved music - if not she would have gone crazy a long time ago. And throughout all of the memories, there was a common link. Bonbon. She had been there through everything. When money was short, she could count on Bonbon for support; When endless days of practice got her down, she could count on Bonbon to cheer her up. Spending innumerable hours each day with your instrument can get lonely, but she always had Bonbon to go to when she needed someone to talk to. Or cry to.
"Thank you" She said
"For what?" replied the earth pony, slightly confused.
"For always being there."
The two finished up their meal and left the restaurant. It had been a few hours since Maestro had given her the chance of a lifetime, and everything was just sinking in.
"We leave for Canterlot tomorrow" Lyra said, excited at the prospect of finally performing at the premiere stage in Equestria "I think it would be a good idea to start packing. We'll be there a few days"
"Alright, let's get to work!" Replied and equally excited Bonbon
The rest of the day went by in a flash. No sooner had packing begun than the sun dropped out of the sky and night ruled over the grounds once more. But instead of her normal nightly practice, Lyra decided to get some sleep.
It was the deepest, most joyful sleep she ever had.
.........
Lyra woke with the sun in her eyes, a rare event. She blinked a few times, waking from her deep slumber. She walked over and opened a window, letting the fresh morning air brush against her cheek. What had put her in such a good mood this morning? The sleep? The sun? The events of the previous day slowly came back to her.
"Canterlot!" She said, once again being overcome with the sight of her dream being so close. After living for so many years without getting closer, it is easy to believe your dream is miles away. Seeing it just around the corner was something she still wasn't used to. After another few minutes of silent euphoria, Lyra walked downstairs to grab her luggage and head to the town hall. However as she left, there was a note on the door.
Don't bring your luggage.
Maestro will get mad.
Sleep well?
- Bonbon
She decided to trust the earth pony and leave her luggage at home. Walking to the town hall took no time, and pretty soon she was greeted by the sight of Bonbon and Maestro waiting for her.
"Morning Lyra" Bonbon said "I see you got my note. You never sleep in so I didn't want to disturb you"
"Thanks Bonbon, and yes I did sleep well. Best in years" she replied. The earth pony always had her best interests at heart. "So why don't we need luggage?"
"Because the theater is already fully equip for visiting stars such as yourself" said Maestro. "Rest assured that no expense is spared; there is an entire wardrobe waiting for you, and money to spend just in case. In these small, fast carriages, we don't have room for luggage." He glanced down at a diamond studded watch on his forehoof. "Nor time to argue! So if you would please hop into the carriage, we'll be off to Canterlot!"
.........
"So, how long have you been playing the lyre?" Maestro asked
Lyra, who had been gazing out over the peaceful landscape, turned back to Maestro. "All my life" she replied. "I remember one day my father took me to a music shop. He wanted me to see all the different types of instruments that went into making an ensemble. He levitated them down to me, one by one, until he got to the lyre. I was just a filly then. I took the lyre into my hooves and plucked my first chord. From that moment on I knew what I wanted to do with my life. I wanted to perform, to spread my music to the world! And apparently fate had the same idea, because that's when this appeared" She gestured towards her lyre cutie mark. "My dad was so proud he bought the lyre right then and there."
"That's amazing Lyra. You definitely have a natural talent for it. Life as a performer has treated you well?"
"Well enough. It's fulfilled me personally, being able to spread such joy and emotion through my music. But it hasn't been the easiest. Money's pretty tight. That watch probably costs more than my entire wardrobe" She gestured to the ostensible watch Maestro wore
"No! Someone with your talent should surly be popular!"
"I guess noponies ever truly appreciated my talent before."
"You need not worry any more. I'm going to make you a star!"
Lyra returned her gaze to the landscape, contemplating the idea. A star. She wasn't just going to perform at the theater once; Ponies from across Equestria would come to listen to her! She would be invited back to the theater to perform every week! She turned to look at Bonbon, quietly sitting beside her. The same excitement was in her eyes.
"Your going to be a star Lyra"
"I'm going to be a star!"
"Yes you are" Maestro interrupted. "And now let me welcome you to Canterlot!"
The two mares looked around at the wonderful city before them. The streets were lined with buildings, each multiple stories. It was one of the biggest cities in Equestria, and with the princesses so close it was by far the most popular. On a normal day the sidewalks that ran along each side of the streets were crowded; on today ponies overflowed into the main path. Pegasi hurried on their way overhead, as the carriage made its way slowly through the crowd
"It's the exact same as I remember" Lyra mused
"When was your last visit?" Maestro questioned
"A long time ago. I used to live here as a filly."
"And why did you leave?"
"I preferred the low key lifestyle of Ponyville." Her reasons ran deeper than that, so she was glad Maestro decided not to press the issue
"Well, I'm sure you'll love the high class life of a Canterlot star! Watches like these come free as presents. All the best restaurants know your name, and reserve the best seats for you. It's simply magnificent"
Lyra was falling more and more in love with the idea of stardom
"What do I need to do to become a star?" she questioned
"All you need to do is play. I'll look after the theater and everything else, and soon the world will know your name. Speaking of the theater, here we are. Your new home, at least until the concert. Than we can talk about moving you here to a permanent residence."
Sure enough, they had arrived at the theater. One look at it and you knew that years of work had gone into creating it. It had a massive dome roof made entirely of stone, with golden statues of the princesses on an overhang at the front. They got out and walked along a marble pathway, with marble pillars flanking each side. Every bit of the theater had ornate carving in it, made by master craftsponies, that added an air of complexity to a relatively simple structure. They entered the main room and saw that no expense was spared on it either. A large fountain adorned the center, and glass staircases led up to the second floor on either side. The stone floor underneath them was polished to a sheen, and lit up by an overhanging chandelier made of hundreds of crystals.
“Wow” breathed Bonbon, taking in the sights.
“I never truly appreciated all this as a filly” Lyra said.
“It truly is a magnificent sight” said Maestro. “Such work was put into it by so many ponies, and even more work is done to ensure that any member of the public could afford to come see it if they wished. However tomorrow is a special day, and they pulled out all the stops on luxury for it!” Maestro beamed as he talked proudly about his theater. “Now if you’ll follow me, your rooms are just backstage”
They followed him into the main theater. The entire room was built for acoustics, amplifying their soft footsteps so they echoed throughout the room. The stage itself was at the far end, a magnificent wooden floor with a red velvet curtain behind it, all designed to amplify the sound outwards to the audience.
“This is where you’ll be performing” said Maestro. “However I must ask you to refrain from walking on the stage. The unicorns are re-enchanting it to allow for better resonance, and would appreciate no disturbances.”
Lyra’s eyes dimmed slightly. She would have to wait another day before standing on that fabled stage. But stand on it she would, and she would perform there and let everypony hear her music!
“Your rooms are just around the back”
Maestro led them through a side door into a hallway. These walkways had many doors on each sides, apparently for warm up and practicing before performance. He led them up the stairways to another corridor.
“And this is the room you’ll be staying in.” Maestro said, gesturing to an elaborately decorated door in front of them. “Excuse me if I don’t stay to tour you around some more, there’s a lot of work to do before tomorrow evening!” And with that he left
The two mares entered the room, intrigued by what the theater had prepared for them. All of their imaginations could not have prepared them for such a sight. The walls were golden, the ceiling polished marble, and the carpet so soft and fine that you could not make out the individual threads that made the mat. There were 2 large beds, each looking more comfortable than they had ever seen. There was a closet built into one of the walls, already filled with the most lavish clothing they could imagine. And equally ornate bathroom was attached to one side, as well as a balcony overlooking the city
“Wow” was all Bonbon managed to say
“This is so… extravagant!”
The two walked to the balcony and stared over Canterlot in the light of the setting sun. It bathed the world in a warm light that made the city seem to glow.
“Lyra, you want to go get something to eat? I missed lunch completely because of the trip.”
“That sounds great!” Then a sharp realization came to her. “I missed both meals today so far.” She chuckled slightly
“WHAT”
“Well, I’m used to it from my 12 hour non-stop rehersathons, so I didn’t really notice.”
“Lyra, you told me you stopped those rehersathons.”
“I did. Temporarily.” She looked out over the streets. “I remember a really nice place to eat not far from here. Let’s go!”
They quickly cantered down the Canterlot streets, the crowd from earlier having thinned out dramatically. Driven by hunger, Lyra picked up the pace and Bonbon followed, until they stopped outside a small, quaint little diner tucked into a street corner. The meal passed in silence, both ponies too engrossed in their food to talk. After they finished, they quickly paid for the meal and returned to the Canterlot streets. The transformation from day to night was staggering. Lights lined the side of the streets, magically enchanted to turn on when the sun went down. Ponies were still out and about, just like it was day. The moon shone in full force above the streets.
“Lyra, are you ready for the concert tomorrow?” Bonbon asked while they walked.
She pondered that for a moment. Was she ready? All of her skill and technique had been honed through years of practice and performance. She had been waiting for such an opportunity for year. But more practice would definitely help.
“I don’t know, Bonbon, I just don’t know.”
“Regardless, you’re going to sound amazing!”
“But will amazing be good enough?”
“Why wouldn't it be?”
“This is the one chance I have at being appreciated by ponies all over the world, the once chance I have at becoming a star. I have to play the best I’ve ever done tomorrow.”
They stopped beside a fountain standing in the middle of the street and stared up at the stars that speckled the sky.
“I’m sure you will Lyra. I’ve never doubted your abilities, and you’ve never disappointed”
“Thank-you. Your confidence in me makes me feel much better.”
She glanced down into the fountain to see the lights of the streets mixed with the stars in the sky on that watery mirror. Bonbon looked down and smiled into the fountain, seeing her own reflection mixed among the lights of the night. They turned around and made their way back to the theater.
They entered their room once more, exhausted from the day’s events. Lyra sat down and lifted her lyre up from the saddlebags lying at her feet
“No you don’t” Said Bonbon, snatching the lyre out of her magical grasp
“BONBON” She shouted. Never being the strongest at magic, she was unable to fight the earth pony for the lyre
“You’ve practiced for years for this performance. What you need most is a good night’s rest.”
Lyra couldn’t argue with the logic in those words, but wasn’t pleased nevertheless.
“Fine, Bonbon. I’ll skip the practice tonight.”
“Thank-you Lyra! Now the moons high in the sky, so it’s about time we got some sleep.”
The ponies went to wash up and prepare to sleep. Lyra hadn’t realized just how tired she was, and could barely keep her eyes open. They returned to the main room and snuggled down for the most luxurious sleep they had ever had. Both ponies were fast asleep by the time their heads hit the pillows.
.........
Lyra opened her eyes to see the sun just peeking through the balcony window. Quickly scanning the room reminded her of where she was. Her performance was today! Excited, she jumped out of bed and noticed Bonbon standing on the balcony, admiring the view
“Today’s the day!” Lyra exclaimed, rushing over to join Bonbon
“Yes it is” she replied.
They stood in silence as the sun rose over the buildings, illuminating the Canterlot streets with it’s bright light once more.
“What do you want to do today?” Asked Bonbon
Lyra already knew how she would spend the day, and levitated he lyre over to her.
“Remember how I didn’t know if I was ready or not? I plan on practicing until I am”
“Well, I guess that’s to be expected.” Bonbon said, walking slowly away from Lyra
She struck up her first notes for the morning and started to practice
.........
A short while later a knock at the door disturbed Lyra from her practices. She turned around to see Bonbon entering the room with a tray full of food
“I let you sacrifice your health for practicing before. Not this time. Eat.” She said, setting the tray down on the table
Looking at Bonbon, Lyra could not deny the earth ponies wish. She set down her lyre and walked over to the tray of food, still warm from where it was cooked.
“This is great!” Lyra managed to say, between bites. “Thank you.” She looked up at Bonbon, with sincerity in her eyes.
“You needed it.” Bonbon smiled back at her. “Is there anything else I can do to help?”
“No, Bonbon. You’ve done more than enough already.”
Lyra finished up her meal and returned to her place on the balcony, bringing her lyre over to her and playing once more. Looking down over the streets, she saw every pony going along their way, not able to hear her over the noise rising up from the street. Not that it mattered to her now. She would get her time to be appreciated that night.
.........
Another knock on the door brought Lyra back to reality. The sun was already past its halfway point in the sky, and the day was slowly progressing forward. The streets of Canterlot were busy, as usual, with ponies going in every direction. Lyra looked around to see Bonbon returning once more, with food once again
“Bonbon, you shouldn’t have!”
“Every pony needs to eat, even though sometimes you neglect that.”
Lyra set her lyre down and walked over to where the Earth Pony was already munching away on a daffodil sandwich. She picked up her own and sat down to join him
“How’s practicing coming?” Bonbon asked
“It’s .. coming. There’s one really tricky section that I just finished perfecting, so it’s coming along well.”
“So do you feel ready for the concert?” She asked with a smile, putting down her plate.
“Not quite. When a musician performs they only play 70% of their best. I need this to be absolutely perfect, so I must know the music 150% by tonight.” She put down her plate a well
Bonbon took the message, and reluctantly got up to leave.
“Well, have a nice practice” She said.
It hurt Lyra to see her friend like that, but Bonbon knew just how much this chance meant. Returning to her place once more, she levitated her lyre and resumed practicing, starting with a sombre melody, and then returning to practicing for the concert.
.........
Another knock at the door signalled Bonbon’s return. The sun was starting to set and Lyra had been practicing all day. She set her lyre down and motioned for the earth pony to join her on the balcony
“Canterlot is a really wonderful city” Bonbon said, sitting down beside Lyra
“The sunset makes it even more beautiful” She replied
“Are you ready for the concert?” Bonbon asked, a hopeful look in her eyes.
The two just stared out over the setting sun as Lyra thought about it. She had been practicing all day, and knew every part by heart. But the complex section still caused some issues, and could use a bit more time. She looked over to the earth pony sitting beside her to tell her no, but just couldn’t bring herself to disappoint her friend once more.
“As ready as I’ll ever be” She said, and saw Bonbon’s eyes light up.
“That’s amazing! I was wondering if you would ever be satisfied with your performance. It sounds really good”
“It’s impossible to play a song perfectly. But I strive to.” Lyra let silence come over them for a few seconds before turning back to her companion. “What did you do today?”
“First I went out and saw some of Canterlot, but couldn’t really enjoy it. So than I just came back here and listened to you play. I know you don’t like it when people listen to your practices, so I just stayed quiet outside the door.” Bonbon blushed slightly, not wanting to admit just how much of the day she spent outside that door
Lyra didn’t notice the blush because she was looking down slightly embarrassed. “You know I hate it when people here a song that’s not ready yet. It just detracts from the final performance.”
“I know, but it’s been too long since I’ve gotten to hear you play.”
They looked out as the final slivers of sunlight disappeared under the horizon.
Bonbon looked over at Lyra and smiled
“Come with me” she said. “The stage is ready”
.........
Lyra looked around the theater she had dreamed of for her whole life. Everything was just as she imagined. She looked around the empty auditorium and down to the front row. Memories flooded her mind. 'Daddy look. I'm going to be on that stage one day!' That day had come. She levitated her lyre out in front of her and struck a single, pure chord. It rang throughout the perfectly acoustical building, fading in such a way it brought tears to her eyes.
"Tonight's the night" Said Bonbon, walking up behind her. "After all these years, you deserve this moment"
"After all these years, I feel I deserve many more than just this one. But I'm so overjoyed that it's finally here."
"Every hour of work you put into your playing will just make this night even more special. And perhaps you'll do so well they'll be dying to have you back!"
"Perhaps. Maestro seem to think it'll happen. He dreams of making me a star."
"But now is the time for your dream."
"Yes, my dream. tonight is finally my night." Tears of joy were welling up in her eyes
"Was it worth it? All of those long years of practicing and anticipating?"
"Yes."
With that, Lyra turned around and walked off stage to prepare for the coming performance.
.........
"The performance starts in 10 minutes. Where is she?" Yelled Maestro across the back-stage area
"Don't worry" said Bonbon. "I know her, she wouldn't miss this for the world."
The faint sound of a lyre drifted over from one of the backstage rooms
Lyra was practicing with all her heart for this performance. It needed to be perfect. Going over the most complex technical part again, she heard a knock at the door.
"I'll be ready in just a minute" She replied, not missing a single note in the runs her left forehoof were playing
"We need you now" Came the voice of Maestro
"Alright, I'm coming." She said, but continued playing, weaving melody in with harmony as she walked to the door. As the passage reached an end she got up and magically opened the door, still levitating her lyre in front of her
"You're supposed to be onstage right now. You don't want to keep the audience waiting, now do you Lyra?"
She had never considered that. Up until this point her shows started when she wanted them to, and her audience consisted of the ponies that happened to be in the area and interested in her music at that time. Performing in Canterlot was going to take some getting used to.
"You're right, I don't want to keep them waiting." She said, heading for the stage door.
The door lead to a backstage area. Around her were a handful of unicorns that were in charge of all the lighting and sound. Bonbon followed her to the area right beside the stage. She turned around and looked into Bonbon's eyes.
"You're going to be amazing, alright. You've practiced and worked for so long for this moment, I have no doubt that you'll blow the crowd away. Now go out there and chase your dream!"
"Thank-you Bonbon. I doubt I would have made it here without you" She said, giving the earth pony a quick hug before stepping out onto the stage.
From her vantage point on stage she could survey the entire crowd. A very controlled applause guided her on-stage, almost like they rehearsed clapping their hooves in unison. She looked out to see many high-class ponies all dressed up to see her perform. A thought flashed through her mind; she remembered why she left Canterlot in the first place. But that thought was quickly pushed aside by her dream. Now was not the time to re-live old memories. Now was the time to make new ones. Surveying the front row, she noticed there was indeed a filly sitting there beside her parents. Lyra smiled softly to herself. Her dream was here, in ever regard. She sat down on the chair in the stage, levitated her lyre in front of her, and began to play
The first chords rang through the theater
Filling her heart with sound
Filling the Theater with passion
Filling the audience with joy
Her dream was here
To play at the Canterlot Theater
For her music to be appreciated
For her passion to be shared
The music rose and grew within her
Her dream filling her spirit
But she no longer needed to dream it
It was here
She opened her eyes to the crowd
And surveyed their faces
But in response she got no emotion
No passion deep in their eyes
As she entered the complex section
She wondered what she did wrong
Why did they not feel her emotion
Not share the passion she poured out
Twang
She made a mistake?
After practicing so well?
She had let her emotions control her
And now they threatened to ruin her
Looking out over the audience
She didn't see joyful faces
She saw criticizing faces
Watching her every move
They weren't here to hear her passion
To share in the emotion she performed
They were here to 'appreciate music'
As the fine gentlecolts do
Her music started to slow
She couldn't stand the look
The dream she had so long pursued
Was broken in front of her
She had to finish the song
As all true musicians do
If not for her
For the music
Breaking into the last arpeggio
She felt a tear in her eye
This one not of joy
But of defeat
As the song ended the crowd started to clap. The same, hollow clapping that guided her on stage. She looked out over the stoic, emotionless faces of the crowd and wondered. Was it because she wasn't good enough that they did not feel her passion? Was it something she did? Was she never meant to perform here? or anywhere?
She glanced at the filly in the front row. She was just the same, clapping in unison with the others. As all good musicians do, Lyra got to her feet and took a bow. No roses landed at her feet. No flowers. Nothing. She walked off stage, trying to preserve at least some of her dignity. She was met in the backstage by her faithful friend
"That was amazing Lyra!" She said. It was only then she noticed the tears gleaming in Lyra's eyes, and how she held her head in a lowered position. "Lyra, what's wrong? Did your dream not turn out well?"
Lyra looked up at the one pony who was always there for her. A look of genuine concern was deep in her eye. The most genuine emotion she had been shown all night.
"No, It didn't turn out as I hoped. I played my greatest but wasn't even able to stir emotions in them. I shared my music with the world, yet the world didn't care. If this is what being a star is all about, than I don't want to be a star" Tears overflowed from her eyes, choking any attempt at further speech.
Bonbon embraced her, trying to offer the comfort and support she needed. "What do you want, Lyra"
"I just want to be appreciated" was all the she managed to get as a response.
"Bravo Lyra" came the voice of Maestro as he walked into the backstage area. "With a little bit of refinement I could make you famous! When do you want to perform next?" He said, completely oblivious to Lyra's pain.
"We'll send you a letter" Bonbon replied, guiding Lyra out of the backstage area
Lyra had never felt so disappointed in her life. The dream that had kept her going for so long had fallen apart right in front of her. What would keep her playing now? Should she even continue? Memories of why she left Canterlot flooded back to her. The up-tight high class, the lack of appreciation. As vivid as yesterday, she remembered practicing as a young mare on the street. Many ponies walked past her, not a single one stopping to appreciate the music she weaved. She poured her heart out into those notes, and ponies kept going on their busy way. At the time she considered she wasn't good enough. That was the day she decided to move to Ponyville, but with a promise. On day, when she was the best lyre player in Equestria, she would return to Canterlot to live out her dream. But even now as she poured her heart out to those around her, they just continued on their way.
She was sobbing so hard into Bonbon's mane, that she lost track of time. A sudden jolt brought her back to her senses. She looked around but didn't see the bright city of Canterlot around her. They were in a carriage, and it took her a while for her eyes to adjust to the dim moonlight outside
"Where are we?" She asked
"Somewhere where you will be appreciated." Bonbon replied, leading her out of the carriage and onto the sidewalk. "Wait here"
As the carriage departed, and Bonbon ran off into the night, she finally recognized where they were. She was sitting at the steps to the town hall of Ponyville once more. Sorrow still filled her every bone, and without the comfort of Bonbon to help fight it off, the emotions threatened to be overwhelming. She only knew of one way to deal with such emotions. She levitated out her lyre and began to play
Sorrow filled the first note
Floating out into the nights sky
She pulled a somber melody from the lyre
And brought it to life in the air
This time she wasn't playing for others
This song was for herself
To let her wallow in her emotions
Let her sadness out
Gazing out at the sky
As the moon glided across
As the blanket of night covered it
As the starts studded it
Her gaze lowered to the ground
To see Bonbon return
But she was not alone
Six ponies walked by her side.
She looked into Bonbon's eyes
and only saw appreciation
For her hard work and dedication
For her music
She realized how much she missed
Seeing that pony in her audience
How much appreciation
She truly had
The song took a joyous turn
As the other ponies came closer
A look of true joy in their eyes
A true appreciation for music
She thought back to the night
As the music picked up in fury
To the critical faces of the audience
To the stoic faces of the ponies
Twang
Another mistake came threw
And pierced the night sky
She tentatively opened her eyes
And saw only smiles
She looked out at the small audience
And realized what she had missed
The true appreciation for her
Had been with her all along
Bringing the music up
To a joyous climax
She let the last note resonate
And fill the night sky
Her song was met with thunderous applause. Not the rehearsed applause of the stadium, but the sincere applause of friends, of ponies who her music meant something to. She played her heart out, let her emotions run along the strings of her lyre, and had impacted the ponies around her so strongly.
She looked at each member of her small audience in a way she never had before
An orange earth pony was sitting at the far right. There was nothing but appreciation in that pony's eyes, as she clapped away as hard as she could.
Next to the earth pony was a purple unicorn. In her eyes was a profound bliss like something she had never witnessed before. Like she had moved the unicorns heart with her music in a way it had never been moved before.
A baby dragon she had not noticed before was laying on the ground. Though it appeared he had been sleeping recently, he was wide awake now and appeared overwhelmed with the emotions she had instilled in him
Bonbon sat in the middle. The earth pony was even more appreciative than normal. Lyra realized just how much her music meant to the earth pony, and how much that pony's appreciation meant to her
Glancing beside them she saw another unicorn, white with a purple mane. Her eyes glowed with stars like she had just witnessed the most beautiful thing in the world
A pink earth pony was sitting beside her. That pony had a smile that seemed to stretch from ear to ear, and had a joy in her eyes like Lyra had never seen before
On the end way a cyan pegasus. The pegasus was on the verge of tears.
The fact that her music had moved so many ponies so deeply was truly something special. She felt truly appreciated by this small crowd. A red flake landed on her nose.
She looked up to see a yellow pegasus flying through the air above her, with the look of utmost joy on her face, and tears in her eyes. And from the basket she was carrying, came rose petals. A gentle breeze made the shower of rose petals even more beautiful as they twisted in the wind, only to land at her feet.
Lyra was crying right now. But these tears were tears of happiness once more. Her dream seemed unimportant now, because she realized just how much she was missing out on through her single minded pursuit of it. Here was where her music was truly appreciated. Here was where her passion flowed from pony to pony.
Lyra stood up and took a bow. 7 red roses landed at her feet, thrown by each of the ponies gathered around her. And among a myriad of euphoric emotions she realized
This was where she belonged.
