Silver Strings

Chapters

Ch 1: First Love
Ch 2: Stellar Performance
Ch 3: Moving Out
Ch 4: The Next Step

Ch 1: First Love

Silver Strings Ch 1: First Love

This is a fanfic of a pony I have invented myself. This fanfic is inspired simply from my imagination with some help from my girlfriend. His name is Silver Strings. His pegasus body is a light blue gray color, and his mane and eyes, a dark brown. My first story is the meeting of his first love, Star Shimmer. Now, on to the story.

It was just an ordinary day for Silver, nothing special; he was on his way home from practice with the Canterlot orchestra to play some games. But then he ran into her. Well, more she ran into him. She was in a hurry and plowed straight into Silver, knocking them both over.

"Oh my gosh, I'm so sorry," she said as she picked herself off of him. She was a light blue mare with a short blonde mane.

Silver Strings looked into her eyes while still sprawled on his back. "Oh, it's really no problem. You must be going somewhere important to have hit me so hard."

"Sorry, and I am. I have an audition for the lead role in an upcoming play."

Silver had always been kind without really trying, sometimes too much for his own good. "Let me escort you there to keep you company. I know where the audition building is and that's quite a while away." They began walking together.

"It's okay. You don't have to do this for me. I've already caused you enough trouble today with knocking you over like that."

"That's alright. I'm fine," he let out his wings and hovered above the ground for a few feet. "See? It's my pleasure to be with a cute mare such as yourself."

The mare blushed. "We'll I'm glad to be escorted by a handsome stallion such as yourself."

They walked on just enjoying their conversation until they arrived at the theater. "Well...ummm...thank you for bringing me here. I'm just on time. I really enjoyed your company...and, sorry for running into you when we met."

He smiled, "That's ok. I told you I'm fine."

The blue mare quickly kissed Silver on the cheek. "I'm still sorry. Hey, I gotta go, but maybe I'll see you around. Oh, I don't think I ever got your name. I'm Star Shimmer. And you?"

He smiled at the thought of meeting her again. "Silver Strings," he gave a dramatic bow.

Star giggled before finally deciding to go. "Well I really should get in there now. Hope to see you again, Silver."

"Yeah, see you around. Maybe we can try to not meet by crashing into each other next time."

She smiled and went inside.

Silver smiled as he flew all the way home unaware that he had just met the love of his life.

*** *** ***

The next day he was hanging out with one of his friends like usual, "Hey dude, where were you yesterday? I thought you were coming over to try out this new game."

"Well, its kinda a long story. I sorta met somepony."

"She better have been cute."

"I never said it was a mare."

"No, but why would you flake for some dude?"

"Fair enough. Yeah, I guess you could say she was cute."

"Dude, I can already see it. You're head over hooves for this pony."

"What are you talking about? We only met once. All I did was walk her to an audition."

"Aaaaaand?"

"What do you mean 'and'?"

"What? Did you not talk at all?"

"Oh, well she sorta crashed into me on her way and I decided to take her there. She seemed a little lost. And yeah, we talked."

"She better have been cute man."

"Well it's not like she was a mule."

He glared at Silver.

"Oh yeah, sorry. Forgot your cousin is a mule."

*** *** ***

Silver and Star did not meet again until some weeks later. He was going to visit a friends house when he saw her looking around and talking to other ponies, looking determined to find something, or somepony.

"Hey Star, whatcha doin' around here? I thought you said you lived in Ponyville. Remember me?" He said as he walked up to her.

"Yes I do, and of course I remember you. How could I forget the stallion that walked me to my audition? That's sorta what I'm here for. I wanted to thank you for taking me. You really calmed my nerves down and I got the part thanks to you." She blushed and poked at the ground with her front hooves.

"So is that all you're here for?"

"I guess so...I just really wanted to say thank you. So...I...I guess I'll just head home now. Thanks Silver." She lifted herself above the ground, her head hanging slightly.

Silver hooked one leg into Star's before she could go anywhere, "Hey wait, don't go yet... Would you like to umm..." He smiled, blushed, looked down, and poked at the ground. "Would you like to...ummm" He hesitated before continuing, "go on a date?" Silver hadn't hesitated because he didn't want to but because he was nervous to ask.

She smiled, a sincere and joyous, but subtle smile. "I was hoping you would ask that. That's really what I was here for to be honest. I just...I don't know...I haven't really been able to stop thinking about you and I wanted to know if there was a reason why."

"To be honest, I haven't been able to stop thinking about you either. The conductor yelled at me yesterday because I wasn't paying any attention."

"I'm sorry."

"Eh, it's not your fault. So where would you like to go?"

"I don't know. I don't live here. Plus, you're the one that offered," she teased.

"Well then, come with me." Silver Strings took Star to the cliché couple places; a simple place for lunch, the park, a calm flight through the clouds, and later she took him to a play and dinner.

They were almost done with the date and were just walking around now. "So how exactly did a pegasus-pony get into an orchestra?" She asked him as they walked around. "It's just that most musicians are earth-ponies or unicorn-ponies. It's a little hard to believe that you play violin."

"What? Do I not look fancy enough to play violin," he said jokingly, holding his head up high to look 'fancy'. "Well it's part of my name for one thing. I see what you mean though; my cutie mark doesn't really match. I technically have two talents. If you look closely, the buttons on my cutie mark are music notes and clefs."

"So what's your other talent?"

"Well it seems you can't tell just by looking at me. I'm extremely talented with technology. Give me some spare parts and I could have a brand new sound board for Vinyl Scratch in less than an hour."

"Wow. Wait, you know Vinyl?"

"What musician doesn't know about the best Dj in Equestria? I mean, I've never actually met her though."

"Well she does live in Ponyville. Maybe you could come visit me next time."

"I may just have to take you up on that offer. So you want me to take you home?"

"No, I'll be fine. I'm a grown up pony too you know." She smiled. "See you later Silver." She nuzzled Silver under his neck for a second and then took off on her way home.

"I'll give it a day or two. Then I have to go see her again," Silver said to himself as he watched her fly off.

*** *** ***

The next day Silver hung out with his friend again.

"Hey, I saw you with that cute pony yesterday. I can see why you like her," Mark said to him while they played video games.

"Hey now, I don't like her just because she looks cute. She's sweet, and smart, and fun to talk to. It's just a bonus that she's as cute as she is."

"Well, are you going to get serious?"

"What do you mean by that?"

"Well, it just seems that you really like her. Are you gonna, you know, make it an official relationship?"

"I don't know to be honest. She lives so far away. It would be difficult."

"True, but you are both Pegasus-ponies. It's not like it would take that long to get to her. Where does she live anyway?"

"Ponyville."

"Oh, that is kinda far. Wait a minute. Doesn't Vinyl live in Ponyville?!"

"Yes."

"Dude, you gotta take me! Come on, make it official. I gotta meet Vinyl. Come on, it's a win win situation. Just think about it: I get to meet Vinyl and you get a cute marefriend. Nopony loses."

"Yeah, ok. I'm going in two days. You better not bother us."

"I won't, I won't. I'll be too busy fanboying over Vinyl." Mark said the last sentence under his breath, too quiet for Silver to hear.

*** *** ***

Those two days went by and the two friends took a train to get to Ponyville. Star Shimmer was waiting with Vinyl Scratch when they arrived.

"Hey, Silver. I hear you're a pretty big fan of mine." Vinyl's voice was so cool.

Silver's eyes grew wide. As did Mark's.

Star walked up to them. "Come on Silver. You can talk to Vinyl some other time. Let's go have some alone time."

Silver walked alongside Star as they walked away. "Alright. Only because I'm sure I'll be coming back for you."

"Coming back for me?"

"Well, yeah. You don't think this is the last time I'm gonna visit, do you?"

Star smiled, "so what to do this time? We could head on over to Sugarcube Corners for some treats; I know Pinkie Pie could give me a discount. Or maybe to the library. Something is always going on with Twilight over there."

"Eh, I'm not really a big fan of libraries. I love books but... It's just too quiet."

"Too quiet? From a couple days ago I would have thought that silence was bliss."

"It's not the same. Yeah, getting to my quiet home from the hustle and bustle of Canterlot is blissful but with libraries it almost feels like it's a crime to make a sound."

"Don't worry then; it's never quiet at this library. The six ponies that are always there are a bit crazy."

"And by that you mean?"

"If you meet Pinkie, you will know exactly what I mean."

"Ok then. Well, why don't we head over to Sugarcube Corners then? I've been feeling a bit snackish anyway."

The two of them headed over to Sugarcube Corners, walking close enough to occasionally bump into each other.

"Good evening partner," they heard a pony say as they walked in.

"Hi, Applejack. How's it goin'?"

"Pretty good myself, who's your friend o'er here? I don't believe I've ever met you."

"Oh, this is Silver Strings. He doesn't live in Ponyville. He's just visiting me."

"Looks to me like the two of you are datin'. Well I've never been one to intrude, so I'll jus' leave the two a' you alone. See ya later Sugarcube."

Star was blushing.

"Sugarcube?" Silver said.

"Oh don't worry 'bout that. She calls everypony Sugarcube. Hey Pinkie, can we get some cupcakes to go?" She asked a bubblegum pink pony behind a counter.

"Cupcakes? Sure thing!" Pinkie Pie chortled as she went into the back to bake some cupcakes.

"So that was Pinkie Pie? I thought you said she was crazy."

"Oh just wait 'till she realizes she doesn't know you."

Pinkie Pie came back a few minutes later with freshly baked cupcakes. "Here's the cupcakes.... Hey...wait a second." Pinkie analyzed Silver for a moment. "I don't believe I've ever seen you around Ponyville before."

"Oh, well, I'm just here visiting Star. I don't live nearby." Silver said, trying to avoid confrontation.

"Well, since you're not staying long we should throw you a party!" She shouted cheerfully. She began bouncing around the room muttering about party plans.

"Umm, that's alright Pinkie, we don't really have time for that right now," Star said quickly, starting to push Silver out the door.

Pinkie Pie stopped bouncing, "hmm, something seems fishy between you too, or maybe its not fishy. Maybe it's something...hmmm, wiggly nose..." Pinkie lit up like a Hearth's Warming Tree and squealed loudly with delight. "Star, meet me at the library around eight." She squealed again and then hopped off towards the library.

"I see what you mean by crazy. What was that bit with her nose though?" Silver asked, at a loss for anything else to say.

"She has a Pinkie sense. Don't worry about it though."

"Well what's wiggly nose then?"

"Well, it's either somepony nearby is in love or somepony is hiding something. Don't worry about it though. I could be wrong. Just wait for her to break physics; then you'll really think she's crazy." Star laughed.

"Wait, what?"

"Just wait."

"Anyway...where to now?"

"Well we're going to the library later, so..."

"But I just said I don't like libraries."

"Pinkie has a party planned. You're gonna want to go to the library."

"Alright, so what do we do until then?"

"Whatever you want," she leaned against him and nuzzled his neck.

"Hmmm, are there any public events going on?"

"Not at the moment but there is an orchestra playing next week."

"Well then I'll see you again next week," he smiled. "Anypony we can hang out with?"

"Not that I can think of. Everyone is probably getting the party ready."

"How? She just started planning it like three minutes ago."

"It's Pinkie; don't question it. We could go to the park for a while and just enjoy the day. We still barely know each other."

"Yeah. That's not a bad idea. If I'm going to be with somepony, it's probably a good idea to get to know them. Lead me there."

They went to the park and just began talking to each other. In just a few hours they knew more about each other than they knew about their best friends.

The two ponies looked into each others eyes, "Silver, have you thought about how crazy this is?"

"What do you mean?"

"Just think about it; we've only met three times and we know this much about each other. And I tend to get to know somepony for a
while before I decide to date them."

"Yeah, I never thought I would fall for somepony who I met because they literally fell on me."

She blushed, "I was in a rush."

"I know, and I'm glad you were. We wouldn't even be talking right now if it weren't for that. I would just be spending my days hanging out with Mark."

"What's the story with him anyway?"

"He's the black sheep in his family. His name is Marksmith; his family is a long line of smiths. His father is a locksmith and his grandfather is a steel smith. Mark makes games."

"Huh, odd. So if you weren't a musician you would be making the consoles and he would make the games?"

Silver laughed a little, "yeah I guess so, but probably the other way around. I'm better with tech and he's better with building. Sometimes I'm just not sure if I made the right choice when I chose music over games though. Both are high-paying and I really enjoy doing both, but, there's so much competition in music. I've never been a competitive pony unless I'm playing a game."

"Well I think you made the right choice, Silver. Think about it, we could work together; plays use orchestras. And it makes you much more appealing. Oh, and mares love a stallion who can sing."

"But I never said I could sing."

"I can just tell."

Silver gave her a skeptical look.

"Don't question it. I just know."

"So, I think it's almost time to go to the library. Should I be worried in any way?"

"I don't think so. I mean she's crazy but she's not dangerous. The worst you'll go through is some harmless pranks."

Thats not good either, Silver thought to himself, I hate being noticed.

"C'mon, Silver." Star nuzzled under his neck and he dreamily followed after her.

*** *** ***

They got to the library which was a mess with party supplies; streamers and balloons everywhere. "How in Equestria did she get this set up so fast? Does she have some kind of party cannon?"

Star didn't answer, but laughed and walked in.

"Hi there," Pinkie's high voice greeted them as they walked through the doors. "Since you're not staying long, you should get to meet as many ponies as you can. Like, this is Rarity," she dragged a white mare to Silver who introduced herself very politely. "And this is Fluttershy."

Fluttershy shyly said hi and hid behind her pink mane.

"And this is Applejack, oh wait. You already met Applejack." Pinkie laughed hysterically at her realization.

Silver smiled awkwardly and started to walk away backwards towards the back of the library.

"Silver what's wrong?" Star asked softly.

"It's nothing. I just...don't like being the center of attention."

"Oh, nonsense. You were perfectly fine being my center of attention at the park." She tried to make him feel more confident.

"That's different. That's alone, one on one, with you. I'm bad with crowds." He looked around nervously.

"Ok. Let me talk to Pinkie and see what she can do. Can we also talk a bit more later before you go?"

Star went to talk to Pinkie. Silver waited awkwardly at the back of the library and eventually started looking for a book to read. He found a copy of Daring Do and began reading.

"Daring Do, huh," Silver heard a mare's scratchy voice say. "What's the name kid? Anypony wanting to read this is already my friend."

Silver didn't bother to look up, "name's Silver Strings. And don't call me kid," he looked up. "We look almost the same age anyway. Wait...is that you Rainbow Dash?"

"Yeah, how do you know me? I don't recognize you."

"Well, we've never met. I went to the Cloudsdale flight camp when I was younger. I remember when you made that sonic rainboom! I'm a year younger than you so we never would have met but I guess technically you are able to call me kid."

Star began walking back.

"Hey Star, look who's here," Silver said excitedly.

"Yeah, I know. She lives here in Ponyville." Star said as she walked up.

"How many famous ponies live here!?"

Well, there's Vinyl, Rainbow Dash, Princess Twilight. Only three that I can think of off the top of my head." Rainbowdash walked
away while they were talking.

"Hmm, less than I expected actually..."

"Come on Silver. I asked Pinkie to be a little less...Pinkie...for you. Lets go have a little fun." Silver put away his book and followed
Star to dance.

Silver was actually able to enjoy himself once he wasn't having other ponies shoved in his face to meet.

*** *** ***

They had left the party and were now in front of Star's front door. The pair stopped in front of her door to talk for a while. "So what
was it you said you wanted to talk about Star?"

"Well, first I wanted to ask if this...us...if it's going to happen."

Silver smiled, "of course it is."

Star blushed.

"So is that all?"

She didn't answer, but instead smiled and looked away teasingly.

"What?"

"There's a certain question I'm waiting for."

Silver smiled and laughed to himself, "Star Shimmer, will you be my special somepony?"

She smiled and kissed him on the cheek. "Answer your question?"

Silver wasn't able to respond. All he did was blush furiously and smile.

"The last thing I was wanting to know was, how are you bad in crowds?"

"Well, believe it or not I'm actually very shy."

"You? No. I don't believe you. You had no problem talking to me the first time we met."

"I knew you'd say that. There's certain times when I'm not at all shy. Like when I'm performing for a crowd."

"That's such a backwards sentence. You're shy and bad with crowds but you can perform with perfect confidence in front of one?"

"Yeah, I know. It's weird. I don't get it either. Being on stage gives me such a rush. I don't understand it but everything that I worry
about just washes away while I perform and there's nothing but me and the music."

"That's so cool. I kinda wish I was that way. I'm an actress but I worry so much about messing up on stage."

"I'll be there for you next time. Maybe I can help you calm down like your audition."

"Yeah, maybe."

"Well, I guess it's time for me to go. I'll see you soon Star."

She nuzzled under his neck and he kissed her quickly on the cheek and then flew off. Silver looked back one last time to wave
goodbye before he left.

Disclaimer: My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic and all characters directly from the show belong to Hasbro. I do not own any rights to anything that isn't an original character.

Author's Note

This is still somewhat a work in progress so any and all feedback in the comments is appreciated. If you have any comments you don't wish to have public, message me at bronysilverstrings@gmail.com. If you wish to be an editor, contact me at the same location. Big thanks to my current editors flux, cayden, kenny, and of course my girlfriend who made this story even possible.

Ch 2: Stellar Performance

Silver Strings Ch 2: Stellar Performance

It had been a few months since Silver and Star had made their relationship official, and now it was almost time for Star's play.

Star was pacing back and forth through Silver's living room. "Oh, what am I gonna do, what am I gonna do, what am I gonna do!"

Silver put a hoof around her, "Star, honey, calm down. You're gonna do fine. I've been watching your practices, you're great. Why are you so nervous anyway?"

"Great? I'm only great? I have. To do. Amazing!"

"Wait, why?"

"Because there's a major talent agent that's gonna be in the audience tomorrow night. If I'm not amazing I'll just remain a small actress in Ponyville. And if I'm thinking about the talent agent I'll be too nervous to be amazing!"

"Woah now, just calm down. The easiest thing to do in these situations, is literally just to pretend they don't exist. It's a lot better for your sanity for one thing, and it works. How do you think I got first chair in the orchestra? I just pretend that nopony else exists while I play, to help me focus."

"Oh, I don't know...that works for you but...I can't do that..."

"Of course you can. You do it all the time when we're together."

"No I don't, what are you talking about?"

"Usually when we're together nothing else matters but the two of us."

"Oh," Star blushed and smiled.

"Just take a breath and try it."

She closed her eyes and began breathing slowly.

"To make it easier, just think about me. Nothing else matters right now but the two of us. Don't think about the play. Don't think about the talent agent. Just me."

She opened her eyes and smiled at Silver, "thank you so much Silver. Surprised that something so simple can help that much." Star kissed him.

"Anything for you. Think you can do that while you're acting? Or even just when you're stressed normally?"

"I'll try. It would definitely be easier with you there to do it with me." Her breathing started to get heavy again.

"You alright, Star?"

"Yeah, I'll be fine honey."

Silver blushed at the pet name 'honey'. "Are you sure? Ooh, I know what might help you calm down."

"What?"

Silver held out a hoof, "Star, would you like to go on a date?"

She perked up, "A date!?" She started bouncing around the room and giggling.

"Sooo, is that a yes? I'll take you anywhere you want, as long as its affordable of course."

Star managed to compose herself, "of course. Now, I think you should go while I get ready."

"But...Star, this is my house."

Her eyes widened with embarrassment, "oh, umm...right. Do you think I should head home then?"

"No, you look fine as you are."

"Good, then I should definitely go home then."

"Wait, what? Why did you even ask then?"

"'Cause, stallions don’t know what they’re talking about when it comes to appearances. Most of the time you don’t wear clothes anyway.”

“Star, most of Equestria regularly doesn’t wear clothes.”

“But on a date? You’re a royal violinist. I know you have more class than that.”

“Ugh, fine.” Silver walked into his room, put on a simple tie and walked back out. “Better?”

“Much,” Star replied simply. “That doesn't really help me though.”

Silver sighed, "Star, listen to me. You're beautiful as you are. You don't need to change anything. Especially not to please me."

She blushed, "alright, I guess I can trust you."

"So where do you want to go?"

Star chose to have dinner at a very nice restaurant. Once they got their table, the two of them started talking.

"So why exactly is this talent agent so important?" Silver asked Star.

Stars eyes suddenly grew wide as she looked behind Silver.

"Wait, what's wrong? Did I say something?" Silver looked behind him.

"No don't look." She pulled his face back towards her.

"Why? Who is that? What's wrong?"

"That's the talent agent. Oooh, no. This can't be happening." She began looking around nervously, as if searching for a place to escape.

"Star, hey. Look at me."

She looked at him nervously.

"It's alright. I doubt she's going to even recognize you. Do what I said earlier. Nothing else matters right now but the two of us, okay?"

"I'm sorry honey, but that's not gonna work right now with her right there!" She was breathing heavily.

"I have an idea. Wait here." Silver got up out of his seat.

"Silver, what are you doing!?"

“I’m just gonna go talk to her. She’s just a pony like the rest of us. If you’re worried she’s not gonna think you’re good enough socially, we’re at a nice restaurant, a restaurant that she herself is eating at. Don't worry. I got this for you."

Silver walked over to the agent. Star sat back, unable to hear what he was saying to her; they seemed to be getting along. After a while, Silver began walking back with her. Star began to freak out even more in her head.

"Star, I would like you to meet somepony. This is Madame Quality. Madame, Star Shimmer. She's going to be in the play you're reviewing soon."

"Well, I must say, it's quite nice to meet such a young and lovely mare. ...What's the matter girl? Speak up." Madame Quality's voice was very dignified.

"Oh, she's just nervous."

"It's umm, nice to meet you too...Ma’am," Star said shyly.

Madame let out a small laugh"Ah, that is understandable. I remember when I was a young mare. Is this your first big play, Ms. Shimmer?" Madame Quality asked.

"Umm...yes." Star looked away shyly.

"Well, your friend Silver Strings here told me -- come on, look at me, girl."

Star looked nervously into her eyes. “Sorry.”

"What’s there to be sorry about. I was just like you at your age. My first agent scared the daylights out of me. You at least have the benefit of me being nice.” Madame Quality took a long look into Star’s eyes. “Ah, yes. I can see everything in your eyes. That...special spark that I used to see in my own long ago. And just look at your cutie mark; that alone is a sign of a good actress. We have a lot in common Star Shimmer. We even share a name."

Star looked shocked.

Silver noticed something off about Stars cutie mark for the first time. He could have sworn earlier that it was a smiling thespian mask, but right now it looked scared.

"Yes, my first name is also Star. Well, good night to you two. I should get going; my husband hates waiting for me.” She let out a laugh and then turned her back to the pair. “Have a good performance, Ms. Shimmer." She walked away and left the two to their date.

"Oh, Silver. What were you thinking?" Star put her face down on the table. "I made myself look like an idiot," she said, her voice muffled by the table.

"No you didn't, she'll remember you now." Silver put a hoof over Stars back.

"Yeah, as the pony who made a total fool of herself."

"No she won't; she knows what you're going through. Plus she seemed really nice to me."

“I just…” Star looked up and let out a heavy sigh. “I hope that went better than I think it did.”

*** *** ***

During dinner Silver did his best to make Star feel better. By the time their food arrived she was back to her usual, un-nervous, self. "Silver, how did you even do that?” Star asked as they left the restaurant. “You told me you were shy, even though I still don’t believe that."

"Yes I am. I also told you, though, I would do anything for you. Star, I just want to make you happy."

"Really? You're so sweet, Silver.” Star planted a quick kiss on Silvers lips. “What did I ever do to get you?"

"You crashed into me, remember?"

Star smiled and laughed. "Oh, shush," she said as she playfully shoved Silver.

Silver took another look at Star's cutie mark and it was smiling again. He decided it would be better to just assume he was seeing things.

*** *** ***

They had finished dinner quite late and Star ended up having to stay over due to exhaustion and the train station being closed for the night. “Silver, I don't want to take your bed. I'm the guest. I'll take the couch. It's fine." Star insisted.

"I can't let you do that. You're my marefriend; I can't let you sleep on the couch. Plus you've got your play coming up; you need to be comfortable and well rested."

"The play isn't tomorrow. I'm fine with the couch. I know you're trying to be sweet, but I just don't feel right taking your bed from you."

"Well I don't feel right letting you take the couch. Just take my bed. I'm fine; I don't have anything important coming up."

"Oh, alright. If it'll make you happy."

Silver gathered up a blanket and pillow for himself and set up on the couch as Star took his bed.

That morning Silver woke up to the smell of baking muffins.

"Star is that you?" He asked as he walked into the kitchen.

"Yeah, I still felt bad for taking your bed...even if it was very comfortable."

"You don't have to feel bad. I offered."

"Well, I still made breakfast for you," she said pulling a tray of muffins out of the oven.

Silver got a good smell of the fresh muffins, "I...guess I can accept that." He slowly started to gravitate towards the muffins.

"Nah-ah-ah. Not yet," she pushed her front hoof against Silver's lips. "There's a little something else that comes with it." She leaned in and kissed him. "Thanks for letting me sleep comfortably; I hope you weren't too uncomfortable on the couch."

"No, I'm fine. Can I eat now?"

Star giggled at how much of a colt Silver could be. Stallions can be gentlecolts like Silver usually is, but no matter what, the quickest way to their heart is through their stomach.

Silver looked up from his muffins. "Ummm," he said with his mouth still full. "Do you want some too?"

Star giggled again. "No, I'm alright. I made them for you."

He swallowed. "Well, I'm leaving some for you anyway. Just in case."

Star smiled. "Alright, I guess I'll take one."

"Honey, are you sure you got the right cutie mark? These are good."

The pet-name 'honey' made her heart race as usual even though she had been hearing it for quite a while. "It's just an old recipe my mom taught me; I've been using it since I was little."

"Ooh, speaking of honey, I bet that would taste good with these. Let me check if I have some." Silver began rummaging through his cabinet.

"Hey, I'm sorry to leave so early, but I have rehearsal. I'll see you when it's over."

"Ok, bye Star." He didn't stop searching for honey.

She started to walk out a little disappointed.

"Oh, wait! Before you go," he ran up and kissed her. "Have fun. I'll be waiting outside for you as usual."

She smiled. That's what she was waiting for. “Alright, honey. I'll see you there." She happily flew off to her rehearsal.

Silver began thinking about Star as soon as she was gone. Her changing cutie mark wouldn't stop bothering him. He could have sworn that it had changed expressions while she was talking to Madame Quality.

*** *** ***

Silver knew by now how all of Star's rehearsals went; they would practice scenes for a while and then run through the full play. Generally, Silver would distract himself with games or errands until they started the run through of the play. Star didn't know that he watched her at every rehearsal.

Silver decided to stop by the bank so he could get something special for Star after the final showing of the play.

"Well, well. Who do we have here? Grabbing more money for that marefriend of yours?" Silver heard a burly voice ask from behind him. “If you’re not careful you’re gonna run yourself dry.”

"Hey Big Bit." Big Bit was the owner of Silver's bank. "Yeah, stopping by again for Star. She's been really stressed about the play and I wanted to get something for after it's done."

"Haha! You don't see ponies as devoted as you so much anymore. You're quite lucky the music biz' pays so well. You come here almost every week for that pony of yours."

"Yeah, I know I spoil her."

"You thinking of marrying her?"

Silver's eyes grew wide, his jaw dropped, and he blushed furiously.

Big Bit let out a loud guffaw, "that's a 'yes' if I've ever seen one."

"We- yeah, but...not yet! We've only known each other for what, five months? That's hardly enough time for a proposal!"

"Who ever said there were limits on love?"

"There may not be limits on love, but certainly there are limits on marriage...right? I...haven't even told her I love her yet," Silver hung his head a little at the last sentence.

"Well, I have an idea then. After her play, tell her. When she walks out, hug her, kiss her, give her a gift, tell her 'you were amazing. You are amazing. Star Shimmer, I love you'," he said all this very loudly and with dramatic movements of his body.

Ponies who didn't know the two of them were staring at Big Bit.

"Move along, move along. Nothing to see here!" Big Bit demanded.

"Even if I did that, it's still too early to propose. Yeah, I really care about her, hay, I love her, but, we haven't known each other long enough to commit to marriage."

"Oh please. I've seen the way you look at her. You couldn't imagine yourself with another mare if you tried."

"Yes I can." Silver pointed a hoof at a random mare, "I could see myself with her!"

Big Bit gave him a skeptical look.

"Fine! You're right. I can't picture myself with anypony else. She’s the mare of my dreams. It's just -- no matter how much I love her -- it's just too early."

"You'll come around."

"So...can I get my withdrawal now? You kinda pulled me out of the line and I have to be somewhere in about twenty minutes."

"Yeah, I'll get it for you myself." He left and came back with about 300 bits.

"Woah, this is way more than I need. I only wanted to take out two thirds of that."

"Yes, I know. Think of the rest as a gift from me to the both of you."

"Thanks Big Bit. Now, I gotta go." Silver took off towards the theater Star practiced at.

*** *** ***

The stage was an open air amphitheater and Silver took his place atop a cloud and watched from above so that Star wouldn't know he was there. He watched them rehearse from beginning to end; in his opinion, it was performance ready, but to the director it still needed more work than they had time for.

Silver met Star at the entrance of the theater as usual. “Hey, don't listen to the director. You guys all look great."

"How would you know what we looked like? Nopony was in the audience. Unless...was that you in the cloud?" She asked him.

"What cloud? I don't know what you're talking about."

"The cloud lingering above the stage. You know, clouds are supposed to move in the sky. Not very subtle just sitting there like that."

"Oh yeah, that cloud," he said, trying to play it off. "Yeah, that was me. I was early so I caught the last few minutes," he said, still trying to play it off.

"Honey, that cloud was there for at least an hour."

"Oh alright, fine. I watched the whole thing," Silver said before playfully sticking his tongue at her.

Star smiled, knowing she had won again. Star always won their little 'arguments'. And when she didn't it's either because they tied, or because she let Silver win.

"So how was it?" She asked nervously.

Silver didn't answer her, but kissed her instead. "Answer your question?"

"You know, I always assume you mean yes, but sometimes I'm not sure if you're actually saying no and just looking for an excuse to kiss me."

"It's both. I mean yes and it's an excuse to kiss you."

Star smiled and shyly looked away.

The next few weeks continued in a similar way. Silver would 'hide' in a cloud to watch star perform, sometimes she would notice, sometimes not. If rehearsal ran late or if they went out after rehearsal, Star would stay the night and make breakfast in the morning. Then, before they knew it, it was the night before the play, and Star was freaking out.

"Just breathe deeply, everything will be fine Star." Silver tried to calm her down.

"How can everything be fine with this going on? Oooh, I'm so scared."

"You know I've been watching you rehearse; you guys are great. Madame Quality already knows you; I'm sure she will talk to you about the performance."

"Yeah but what if--" Silver interrupted her with a kiss.

"You won't. Believe in yourself honey."

"You're too good. You know that?"

"Mmm, I'm not gonna deny it. Come on, I got you a little something. I was planning on giving it to you tomorrow but it seems like you need it now."

Star kissed him for a long time. "I can wait until tomorrow then. The thought itself calms me down pretty well."

Silver smiled. "Alright then. I'll wait until after the play to give it to you. Come on now. It's late, and you've got a big day tomorrow."

Silver took her to bed, his bed as usual, kissed her goodnight and went to where he had been sleeping on the couch. When he woke up, he smelled the usual muffin smell, but Star wasn’t there as she usually was. She had already gone off to her final dress rehearsal before Silver was even awake.

Celestia bless her for how sweet she was. She didn't have to take the time to make muffins every morning but she did just for him.

After cleaning up, Silver happily ate the muffins and set out to go see the days first performance. There would be three performances that day and Silver planned to see all three. Star would be the most nervous about the last since that was the performance that Madame Quality was expected to be at.

Silver found his spot atop the clouds and watched the rehearsal. The director actually seemed pleased by the end of it. Silver certainly was.

"Hey Star," Silver said as Star walked up to him after she got out of her costume. "You guys are gonna be great tonight."

"Got your head in the clouds again?"

Silver laughed. "That was clever. Yeah, I was watching. So what time is the first performance?"

"It's in two hours."

"Ooh, okay. Good. Would you like to go on one last date before your performance? You know, to boost your confidence."

"How could I say no?"

Silver took Star to a nice place for lunch. While they were eating they heard a very elegant voice nearby them. They both recognized the owner of the voice instantly. "Why hello again Ms. Shimmer. I didn't think I would get to see you again before the performance. How has it been going?"

"He-hello Madame Quality. I-it's been going well." Star was instantly nervous.

"Oh come now girl. Calm down. I have perfect confidence in you. I'm sure your coltfriend here feels the same way."

"I know she is gonna do great." Silver agreed with her.

"Th-thank you." Star attempted to compose herself. "I look forward to letting you see us. We've all been working very hard to make this a tremendous performance."

Silver caught a look at Star's cutie mark and again it looked nervous. Now he was sure there was something up with it.

"Aha! Now that's the confidence I was looking for. Well, I’ll certainly see you tonight Ms. Shimmer. Have a nice lunch." Madame Quality turned and walked out of the restaurant.

"See, what did I say? I told you she would remember you." Silver said once Madame Quality was gone.

Star took a deep breath. "Well that definitely went better than last time. I actually feel pretty good now."

Silver took another look at Star's cutie mark and again it was smiling like normal. He had some questions but he decided to hold them off until later. They finished their lunch and headed back to theater so that Star could get dressed for the play.

*** *** ***

All three performances went phenomenally. There were no mistakes that Silver could see from any members of the cast. By the end of it, Silver could practically recite the whole thing himself.

Silver met Star outside the theater. "We did it, we did it, we did it," Star said excitedly as she pranced in a circle around Silver.

"It was great Star. You guys really pulled through." Silver momentarily thought about what Big Bit had told him to do but quickly decided against it to spare his own embarrassment.

Madame Quality walked up to them, Star still bouncing around Silver. When she noticed Madame Quality, she stopped instantly and blushed furiously. Madame Quality's face was blank and serious.

"H-hello Madame Quality." Star looked away shyly.

She kept a straight face for a few moments but slowly, Madame Quality's straight face broke into a wide smile. "Well done Ms. Shimmer. It's been quite some time since I've seen a performance as flawless as yours tonight. I'll be sure to get ahold of you if I find something for you to be in. For now, goodbye Star Shimmer."

Star had a huge smile on her face. "Goodbye Madame Quality."

"Oh please, if I'm going to be your agent, call me by my first name."

"O-okay. Goodbye Star Quality."

Star Quality turned to talk to some of the other performers and the director.

"It feels so weird addressing somepony with the same name as me. Especially somepony who is so important. So...you said you had a gift for me?"

"Well, its a couple things. They're all at home though, so let's go."

Silver took Star home to give her her gifts. "So first," Silver pulled star into a long kiss. "Congratulations on your performance tonight."

Star blushed. "That's a good way to say good job," she said shakily.

"Next: I had this brought in straight from the best seamstress I knew." Silver pulled out a beautiful dark blue dress from a chest in his room.

"Oh my...Silver, this is amazing, but how did you afford this? And who even made it for you?"

"I flew to Ponyville myself to talk to Rarity during one of your rehearsals. She was more than overjoyed to make it after I told her the reason. Derpy brought it in just last week for me."

"Silver...I...I love you. I don't want to scare you, but I love you. I really do." Star was smiling but she was having a hard time looking at Silver.

Silver gently pushed her face towards his to make her look at him. He had a huge smile across his face. "And that was the last thing I had for you. I guess you beat me to it though. Star, I love you too. We've only known each other a short time but in that time you've made yourself the most important thing in my life. Six months ago I didn't even know you existed, but now I can't imagine my life if you didn't exist."

Star was almost brought to tears she was so happy. “Silver, I don’t even know what to say.”

“Don’t say anything yet. There’s one last thing I want to ask you.”

“What is it?”

Silver took a deep breath. “Star...would you like to move here with me?”

Disclaimer: My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic and all characters directly from the show belong to Hasbro. I do not own any rights to anything that isn't an original character.

Author's Note

Ch 3: Moving Out

Silver Strings Ch 3: Moving Out

"What?!" Stars voice was louder than she had intended. "Silver, are you really asking me to move in with you? I don't think--"

"Oh wait, no! That's not what I meant." Silver was almost as shocked as her.

"Okay, well you scared me. What do you mean then?"

"I was wondering if you would be willing to get a home here in Canterlot so we could be together more often. I would even help you pay for most of it."

Star smiled now that the shock had subsided. "Silver, I couldn't ask you to do that for me. That's a lot of money, and paying for two houses. Would you be able to live?"

"Playing for such a big symphony orchestra pays well. I've done the math with Big Bit. He says I could comfortably pay for nearly 60% with my income."

"Silver, I...I really appreciate the thought, but I wouldn't feel right letting you spend that much on me. I'd almost be more comfortable with what I thought you were asking me originally."

"Then why don't you do that?" Silver kept a serious face for about three seconds before he broke into a smile, unable to hide the joke.

Star smiled as well, knowing he didn't mean it. "Maybe after a year. I will come visit as often as I can, honey, but I couldn't ask you to do that for me and it's too soon for us to live together."

"I guess you're right--"

"The mare is always right, even when she's wrong." Star laughed.

Silver laughed as well. "Yeah I know you are. I just...wanted for us to be closer together."

"Well, you have given me an idea. What if we did the opposite?"

"Huh?"

"Honey, what if you came to live in Ponyville? You wouldn't have to spend so much. Small Town like Ponyville isn't nearly as expensive as the Royal City. We would be closer together. You would be close to a number of talented ponies, you know, Vinyl, Octavia...umm...well I can't think of any others off the top of my head. It never gets boring in Ponyville. And most importantly, we could see each other every day."

"I...I don't see why not honestly. Let's at least give it a try."

Star smiled. "So when will I get to see you?"

"I guess I'll talk to Big Bit tomorrow. The sooner I get to see you the better right?"

"Mhmm. Now come on. Lets get to bed.”

Silver raised an eye. “Together?”

Star seemed to break. She was blushing, her eyes were wide, and her mouth was trembling like she was trying to say something but was too shocked to say the words.

Silver laughed slightly, "alright. I thought that was the reaction I would get. Calm down, love. I was just kidding." Silver lightly kissed her cheek.

She took a deep breath. "That doesn't...really...help."

Silver laughed again. "I know."

Star glared at him playfully. "Meany."

"I'm not a meany. You know I just like to tease you."

"And that's why you're a meany." Star started to walk to her (Silver's) room.

"I only tease you because I love you."

She stopped completely. "I'm still not used to hearing those words yet. I love you too." She gave him one last kiss and headed to bed. "Goodnight, my love."

Silver replied the same goodnight and headed to the couch.

*** *** ***

As usual Silver woke to the usual smell of Star's breakfast muffins.

Star walked in as Silver was waking up. "Good morning, honey. Muffins as usual."

"I know, I can already smell them."

"I wouldn't expect any less, I mean, you go and buy the ingredients every time you know I'm going to be staying the night."

Silver blushed slightly. "You noticed?"

"You think I didn't notice that your supply never goes down? Well, I'm happy to make them for you. I love seeing the smile on your face every time you eat them."

"And I'm happy to eat them every time you make them."

Star laughed. "So when are you coming to live in Ponyville?"

"This is just a rental so I can get up and leave as soon as I've found a place to live. Got some goodbyes to say though. Big Bit, Mark, my family. They'll all be proud that I'm moving on. Wait! I just realized, you need to meet my family still. I'm not even sure if I told them about you."

"Honey! We've known each other for months and you never told them about me?"

"I don't talk to them very often."

"Well I think I should at least meet them before you leave."

"I guess. We can do that tomorrow. Let's just have today to ourselves, okay?"

The day was like every other day we spent together, but with a bit more kissing and "I love you's" this time around.

When Silver put Star to bed he stayed up for a few hours thinking about what was going to happen tomorrow, most of it bad, like his mom embarrassing him with baby albums. He fell asleep imagining his dad trying to get her to go watch some sports. This was going to be horrible.

*** *** ***

By the time Silver woke up, Star was all ready to go and his muffins weren't warm anymore. Quickly, he bathed and prepared himself for what was about to happen.

"You ready to go, love?" Silver was standing at the door, wanting to get things over with as fast as possible.

"Yeah, of course I am. Hehehehe. I'm gonna meet your parents." She said the last sentence in a sort of sing-songy way. Her attitude reminded Silver of a certain pink pony he had meet quite some time ago.

Silver lead Star to his parents house as quickly as he could without drawing suspicion from Star. He wanted to get in and out as fast as possible as well, still expecting the worst to happen.

Silver walked straight in without knocking, being that he used to live there. "Mom, dad, I've got a little surprise for you." He called out to his parents. Star nudged his side. "Alright, a big surprise."

"Silver! Oh my, you haven't been home in ages," they heard Mrs. Strings yell from a different room. She began walking into the front room where Silver and Star were. "So what's this surpri--" she cut off as soon as she noticed Star. "Oh my. This really is a surprise."

"Hello, Mrs. Strings." Star said, blushing slightly, which only made her cuter.

Silver felt it right to introduce them. "Mom, this is Star Shimmer. She's my special somepony. And Star, this is my mom, Nylon Strings."

"It's very nice to meet you Mrs. Strings--"

"Oh please, you can just call me Nylon." Silver's mom analyzed Star for a moment. "You are just the cutest little thing," she finally said, causing Star to blush furiously. "Honey," she yelled upstairs to Silver's dad. "Come downstairs. Silver's brought somepony home to meet us."

Silver's dad, Steel Strings walked down to see Star. "Well, who's this cutie?" Star somehow managed to blush even harder.

"This is my special somepony, Star Shimmer." Silver quickly explained, wrapping a wing around her. "I know you've only just met her, but I have some news."

"You're getting married!?" Nylon freaked out. Star's eyes went wide; her whole face was practically glowing red.

"Woah, woah, woah. No. We're not getting married. Not yet at least, but I wanted to tell you that I'm moving to Ponyville. For her. I'm not moving in with her, but I'm still going to Ponyville."

Both of Silver's parents stood wide eyed for a moment. Steel gave a congratulations as Nylon feinted.

"Not exactly the reactions I was expecting," Silver said, receiving a slight glare from Star.

*** *** ***

The three of them, Silver, Star, and Steel, took the time to start talking. Silver first apologized that he hadn't introduced them sooner.

"That's alright, son. I get it, you're a busy buck. You're an adult. You don't need to come home like a foal, regardless of what your mother says. You don't really need it, but you have my permission to move to Ponyville. And Star, you sound like an amazing mare. I can see how you both feel about each other. It's the same looks Nylon and I used to give each other." The old buck looked at his son with pride.

Silver and Star both looked at each other and smiled. Star leaned in closer to Silver.

"You better keep an eye on him over there in Ponyville. He gets distracted quite easily."

"Oh, I know." Star giggled adorably.

Silver nudged her playfully. "Hey, I'm not that bad."

"Honey, the other day you played with a piece of string for five minutes."

"... it's not a crime to still be a foal at heart."

Star rolled her eyes.

Slowly, on the couch, Nylon woke up from her shock. "Silver... I don't know..."

Silver cut her off before she could finish. He already knew she was trying to tell him no. He talked to her calmly but sternly. "Mom, I'm an adult. Even if you don't want me to go, there's nothing you can do to stop me. I love Star and I'm going to go with her. You may have just met her but believe me, she's the best thing that has ever happened to me."

Nylon suddenly broke down crying. Star walked over to console her. Star gently put a hoof around Nylon "Mrs. Strings, I know this is sudden, but we've been seeing each other for quite a while, and it's just getting hard for us to continue to be apart. I wholeheartedly love Silver, and I promise I will take care of him. I would never forgive myself if I let something happen." Star started to get emotional as well.

Steel pulled Silver into the kitchen as the two mares hugged each other. Star was stroking Nylon's mane as Nylon tried to stammer out a sentence.

"As much as it hurts, you're doing the right thing," the old buck said to his son. "It's time for you to spread your wings and leave the nest, and Star is the best mare you could possibly do that with."

Silver smiled.

"I'll never let you be too old to give your own father a hug though." The two of them hugged. "We're gonna miss you son."

"Sounds like the crying has stopped." The two of them walked back out into the living room.

"Silver, I just... Star she's..." Nylon still couldn't quite compose herself without crying. Slowly, she closed her eyes, nodded her head and simply said go. She sniffed, wiped away a tear, and repeated herself. There was a smile behind her quivering lip.

The two young lovers left soon after. The only thing Star said about it was 'she approves...as much as it hurts...she approves.' The meeting went much better than Silver had anticipated

They spent the rest of the day talking with Silver's friends and telling them the news. Some took it better than others. Big Bit let out a hearty laugh as he wrapped the younger buck around the neck and told him good work, while Mark nearly broke down like Nylon had.

*** *** ***

Moving day was scheduled for only a week later. Star had some different plans before the day was over though. She invited everypony over to Silver's house for a moving party.

Silver walked into his house to streamers and dubstep. Star was waiting by the door for him. "Star, what in Equestria is all this?" It was a surprise party. She had planned it while he was out. Silver hadn't even known Star was over.

"What's it look like, silly," Star teased. "It's a party! I even called in the best party planner I know."

They both heard a hysterical chortle. "Hiyah, Silver!" The pink pony with the cotton-candy-esque mane waved at them from across the room.

"Yeah but... What's everypony doing here?" Silver asked.

"You think we're gonna let you just leave like that, bro?" Mark walked up to them. "Not a chance."

Silver smiled and looked around. Everypony he knew was there: Mark, Big Bit, some ponies from the orchestra, his parents, and even a few ponies he'd met in Ponyville.

Steel Strings walked to the middle of the living room. "Hey, everypony!" He yelled. The music quieted and everypony gradually caught on. He picked up a cider mug from the table. "To Silver!"

Everypony in the room repeated the toast.

The party went through the night and lasted well through the next morning. Those that could still stay awake helped Silver move what was left of his belongings into a sky wagon. Then, after saying his final goodbyes to anypony that was still awake, he flew off to Ponyville with Star at his side to begin his new life.

Author's Note

Ch 4: The Next Step

Silver Strings Ch 4: The Next Step

Settling in was the easy part. Unpacking took forever, but that was just in the nature of moving. Silver found a home just on the edge of town. It was quiet enough for his liking, and it was close to where Star lived. Everypony in Ponyville was Silver's type, aside from Pinkie. She was still crazy, but she was a crazy he could deal with. He had to admit; her parties were the best.

Now it was time for the hard part. Silver paced his living room, waiting for Star to arrive so she would take him to meet her parents. It had been easy enough for her to meet his, but Silver had to make a good impression. Unlike his parents, her's lived in the same town.

Star walked in as Silver was taking another round through his living room. "Honey, what are you so worried about? My parents are going to love you." She put a hoof around him to stop his pacing.

"How do you know that?" Silver responded.

"Because, you moved to a whole new town just to be with me. You left your friends and family behind, and that aside, you were willing to practically buy me a house. In Canterlot! It's clear that you love me and you want to take care of me. That's all they care about."

"I-I-I just..."

"There's nothing to worry about. Just breathe."

Silver took a long, deep breath. "Alright... Let's go."

*** *** ***

Star walked into her old home with Silver nervously following behind her. "Mom, Dad, I've got a surprise for you. Oooh, what's that smell?"

The two of them sniffed the air.

"It smells like your muffins, but slightly different."

They heard a mares voice come from the kitchen, "hey Honey. I see you finally brought your special somepony over. The muffins should be ready in about ten minutes. I know he likes them."

Silver looked over at Star with a confused look. "How does she know that?" He whispered

Star shrugged. "Mother's intuition? How should I know?" Star decided to switch subjects. "Hey mom, is dad home?"

They heard a response from the kitchen, "no, he's at work. Should be home by dinner though. Opf, why are we yelling to each other. Get on in here so I can see you two."

The couple walked into the kitchen to see a table set perfectly for four. "Did Star tell you I was coming over?" Silver asked her.

"Nope," she said simply, still preparing food. She turned around to look at the pair. "Well, you're a handsome one."

Silver bashfully smiled and looked away.

"You two get settled down. I'll be right out. Go ahead and leave your saddlebag by the front door."

Silver and Star walked back out into the living room to wait. "Did you tell her I was coming over?"

"No, it was supposed to be a surprise. You just can't win with moms, can you?" Star responded.

"I'll keep note of that for when we have our own little filly."

Star blushed and smiled before giving Silver a playful kiss. "You're wonderful, you know that?"

"Well I'm certainly not going to deny it."

Star's mom walked into the room. "So, I hear you moved all the way down here for my little 'Shooting' Star." She pulled Star over and kissed the side of her head.

"Mom!" Star was blushing furiously as she shoved herself away.

"Hehe, yeah." Silver giggled a little at their moment. He held out a hoof in greeting. "Silver Strings. Nice to meet you--"

She suddenly pulled Silver into a tight hug, ignoring his outstretched hoof. "My name's Cinnamon Spice," she said to Silver after releasing him. "So, care to tell me how you wound up in small town Ponyville?"

"Well, long story short, after a couple months I just couldn't stand to be apart from her anymore so... well at first, I asked her to move over to Canterlot, but we both figured it would be easier for me to move here instead. It's certainly less costly. Either way, though, I would have been able to support the both of us."

"If you don’t mind me asking, how much do you make?" Cinnamon Spice asked.

"Well, enough to comfortably pay for both my house and around sixty percent of Star's from month to month. Plus living expenses and self indulgence. It's rewarding being the first chair violinist to the royal symphony."

"Wow." They said in unison, even though Star had already been told that once before. You could practically see the bit signs in both their eyes.

"Well, for somepony who lived in Canterlot and can live with that kind of budget, you're very...uuh...down to earth." Cinnamon was impressed. "I would expect somepony like that to be posh and snooty."

"Ha. Yeah. That's what everypony says. 'You live in Canterlot?'" Silver said, imitating nopony in particular. "'But you don't have an accent.' I didn't grow up in the same conditions I have now. We weren't poor, not even close, but for our location, we were below 'middle class' and I didn't grow up around the ponies that try to act like they're better than everypony else. My dad makes instruments and my mom, before she had me, was a singer. She used to go up on stage and perform for crowds all around Canterlot but after I was born she had to stay home. She still performs locally for friends or community choirs. After I got my cutie mark during a guest performance with the Canterlot Symphony is when I picked things up for us."

"You performed with the Canterlot Symphony before you even got your cutie mark?"

"Well, I got my cutie mark quite late compared to everypony else. Very last in my class actually."

"That hardly seems to matter. Just means you had more time to find out what you love. I mean just look at the Cutie Mark Crusaders."

"The who?"

"Oh, just three little fillies that haven't gotten their cutie marks yet. They call themselves the Cutie Mark Crusaders. They try anything they can think of to find their cutie marks. It's cute but I don't think they really understand what a cutie mark means."

"Ah. I may have to meet them someday."

"You and everypony else."

Silver laughed and continued with his story. "Being so young still, the symphony paid my parents until I was at a 'legal working age'. And that's how I got where I am now. What about you guys?"

"Oh, our story is a lot simpler." Star explained. "I grew up pretty much the same as I am now. We've been 'middle class' since before I was born. Most of my time as an actress has been with the community or other small time productions. When we met was my first big play."

"Well, now that you have an agent you're sure to get into a lot of big plays."

"Yeah," Star gasped at a sudden realization. "I might be able to get Madame Quality to speak to the orchestra director so you can play with us if we have a musical!" Her excitement for just the possibility was adorable.

"I would love that." Silver smiled at his marefriend.

"And I would go to every single one of them," Cinnamon chimed in.

*** *** ***

"I'm ho- oh hi." Star's dad said as he walked through the front door. He was a dark orange earth pony with a short brown mane and tail. "Who might you be?"

Silver had been waiting alone in the front room while Cinnamon was doing last minute checks on dinner and Star stepped aside to visit the little mare's room. "Uuh, hi," Silver said awkwardly. "You must be Star's dad."

"That's right, and you are?"

Star's dad looked like a nice stallion but Silver found himself at a loss for words. "I'm, umm...Star's--"

"Hi dad!" Star came into the room and gave him a big hug. "I see you met Silv--" she saw the look of worry on Silver's face. "Dad, are you harassing him?"

"No!" Star gave him a stern judgmental look. "I swear I'm not!"

"You," she pointed a hoof at her dad. "Wait here."

"But I-"

"Here," Star said with a light stamp of her hoof.

Star pulled Silver down the hall. "What's wrong, Honey?" She asked him softly with a tone of concern.

"I don't know what to say," Silver replied in a near whisper.

"You were great with my mom though. My dad is nice. It's not like he's a drill sergeant or something. He coaches a kids basketball team at the gym."

“I-I know, but…”

“But what?”

“I...I don’t know.” Silver hung his head in defeat.

“Just go talk to him. He’s not gonna hurt you.”

"You don't know that."

"Yes I d- Honey he's my dad. If I'm any example, he's the one who raised me."

"To be fair, you did plow into me the first time we met."

Star facehoofed. "Stop making excuses." She gave Silver a quick kiss. "Honey, go talk to him," she said sweetly, followed by another kiss, and then a stern look.

"Alright, I'm going." He nervously walked back into the living room where Star's dad was still waiting. His ears perked and his back straightened when Silver walked in.

"Uuhh, hi. We didn't really get a proper introduction did we?" Silver asked, far too formally.

"Too formal, Love.” Star teased as she walked through the living room to the kitchen.

Silver faced her. "Oh hush," Silver said playfully. He could hear her giggle as she left the room. When he turned around, Star’s dad was right in his face.

“I just have one question.” He said flatly.

“Yes?” Silver’s eyes had shrunk to pinpricks.

“What do you intend with my daughter?”

The worry in Silver's eyes vanished and he looked him straight in the eyes. “To love her, make her happy, and keep her safe at all times, no matter what that requires of me.” Silver stated that fact like he had said it thousands of times before.

Her dad sat back with a warm, genuine smile. “Then we’ll get along nicely.” He hooked a leg around Silver’s back. “Name’s Ace. Now let’s go eat.”

The rest of the night progressed easily with both of Star’s parents warming up quickly to Silver.

*** *** ***

It was late when they left to take Star home.

"Aha! They loved you!" Star let out a delighted squee and gave Silver a quick kiss on the cheek.

"That went a lot better than with my parents." Silver laughed.

"Well the conditions are a bit different. Nopony is leaving. I'm still gonna be here no matter how things end up between us."

"Things will only ever end one way between us."

Star smiled at his intended meaning. "You're wonderful."

Silver just smiled back at her. They walked in happy silence until they reached Star's house. "Goodnight my love. It's been a great night," Star said as she pulled her coltfriend into a hug.

"Who said it was over yet?" Silver playfully asked her over her shoulder.

Star pulled back from the hug and tilted her head, letting an ear droop down like a confused puppy. “What do you mean?”

Silver laced his statement with false concern to throw her off. “Star, I need to ask you something.”

“What is it?” She sounded genuinely concerned because of the way he had asked.

“Star,” Silver started, still with the concern in his voice. He quickly dug something out of his saddlebag that Star couldn’t see. When he looked up, Silver had the most sincere smile. “Will you marry me?” He held out a gold wingband and waited for her to answer.

Author's Note

Just like you guys are gonna have to wait. MWAHAHAHAHA. Sorry (no I’m not) that I had to leave it off like this. I didn’t get to have an evil cliffhanger last chapter so I had to again this chapter. Although it’s not much of a surprise as to what she would most likely say anyway :/ … *smiles evily* or will she?

Sorry I took so long to write this chapter, I’m busy with college, my youtube channel, trying to find a job, and just had writers block for a long time. (Plus I’m lazy. ssshhh, don’t tell anybody.) I will try to get the next chapter out sooner but no promises. Also, I don't like that my chapters are getting shorter! I'll try to make the next one longer as well. Anyway, I hope you enjoyed this chapter, cause I did enjoy proofreading it. I do love writing, as little of it as I get to do.

As always, big thanks to my wonderful girlfriend for the inspiration of this story, and for helping me with the editing. I don't know what I'd do without her. Well, not write. That's one thing.