A Chromatic Scaleby eLLenChaptersI didn't ask for this.I asked her for it.They're asking for it.She's asking for it! You hear me?!I'm asking her for it. Really, this time.Okay, I asked for part of it. Just a part!I didn't ask for this.I love the thrill of flight. And that’s a lot coming from someone like me who thinks love is just a bunch of mushy nonsense. To feel the rush of air as I surpass speeds everyone said was impossible; that’s awesome. Seeing the ground go by in a blur of color and knowing that from anypony on the ground I’m just as quick is the best. I’d even say it’s what I live for! Heh, just look at my cutie mark. I got it when I broke the sound barrier, something nopony else has ever done I might add. But that’s all just another day in the life of Rainbow Dash. So now you can imagine the unbearable pain I was going through at the hooves of my so-called friend. I was trapped, practically strapped down by fabric, in a hellish world called a boutique and being held hostage by a torturess by the name of Rarity. She claimed to be taking “quick and easy” measurements for her clothing for pegasi but every answer to “Are we done yet?” just lead to another five minutes of agony until I managed to choke out the question again from under the clothing she insisted wasn’t too tight. Just form-fitting, she said. If that wasn’t bad enough, she decided to conveniently place me right by the upstairs window, knowing full well I’d be thinking about jetting out of there and returning to the free skies where I belonged. So you can’t really blame me when I actually did that on a break I declared myself. She looked a little annoyed when I got back half an hour later, but hey, she’s always working and could use a rest. At least I was kind enough to wait until she got the (ugh) dress off of me. Why did I even offer to help again? Oh, right. It’s because I’m a nice friend. Anyways, we were on another break some time too long after the last one, this time one she declared. She left off to some other room for some reason. I think it was about powdering her nose but that doesn’t make much sense. Why would you put a bunch of itchy, sneezy stuff on your nose? I don’t know. I was left to myself for the time being but I didn’t have anything to do. Something told me flying off wouldn’t be as appreciated this time so I decided to stay put. To the house, at least. I left the room I was in just for the sake of some new scenery. I glided down the stairs, quite literally, and made my way to the living area. Maybe I could grab a snack, I was thinking when, I saw the piano. Has she always had a piano? was my first thought. She would definitely be the type to have one just for decoration. All the big, fancy mansions seemed to have one. This definitely wasn’t a mansion by anyone’s standards but Rarity was the type to make the most out of what you have. That’s why she’s a designer. The piano sat there in its own grandness and was colored a stark, shiny black, as they always seem to be. Seeing it was a bit odd to be honest. Sure, I’d seen some recently at events like the Gala a while back, but this one was just being here without any sort of purpose. There wasn’t any pianist playing a melody. It was like it just came in one day and plopped itself down, having had enough of the snobbish crowds in Canterlot. I just stared at it for a moment. It brought back some memories I hadn’t thought of in a long time. Years, in fact. Maybe it was the sheer randomness or some weird sense of nostalgia but I decided “Eh, Why not?” and took a seat at the stool. Just real quick, I assured myself. Placing my front hooves on the keys and my others in position for the pedals at the base of the instrument, I found a familiar, old position that started a tune. I hadn’t played this in a long time but that only had so much on hours and hours of muscle memory. Starting on a chord of notes B accompanied by the two same keys an octave lower, I hit each note of the chord individually going upwards before jumping up to notes higher than the original starting point. The melody repeated a pattern similar to this a few times, changing the arrangement of notes as it went on, before shifting into a new progression brought together by the pedal that held the note longer when I let go of the actual key. I’m sure it sounded nice but it wasn’t the style of music I like, not counting the lack of electric guitars. It was too slow, which tended to be something I never liked. It picked up later, but that took about a minute or two to get to. The fact that I actually did get to it probably should have told me how long it had actually been, but I didn’t notice. What can I say? I was concentrating. “Why Rainbow, that is simply marvelous!” she said from behind me, causing me to end the song abruptly with an awful clash of sounds. I’ll admit I jumped a bit from the random voice out of nowhere but I definitely wasn’t scared. I was only caught off guard. You think I’d be used to that with how much I hang out with Pinkie. I whipped around. “Rarity!” She either didn’t hear or didn’t care for my tone. “I had no idea you were so gifted in such a skillful talent.” “I’m not-” wait, what? “What do you mean skillful talent? Are you saying flying isn’t skillful?” She backpedaled, “Oh no, never! I was just referring to…” She raised a hoof to her chin as she thought of an unskillful word. “High class? Or cultured?” I deadpanned. “Yes,” she stated with a completely straight face, avoiding answering either question. “Yeah, well… I am. You know those stories of parents forcing their foals to learn an instrument while telling them ‘it’s a good thing to learn’ or ‘you’ll appreciate it when you’re older’? Yeah.” “It sounds like you’ve put some thought into this.” “I guess so.” “By that tone of voice, I can assume you have yet to appreciate it as you’ve gotten older?” she asked, raising an eyebrow. I raised my own eyebrow. I didn’t like the way she said that. “Yeeeeah,” I drew out suspiciously. “May I ask why?” she asked lightly. “Because it’s boring! And slow and time consuming and I’d rather be flying,” I spilled out. Odd, I could’ve sworn that felt like I’d said that before. Déjà vu. “But Rainbow, dear, surely you must understand the instrument if you’ve played as much as you implied.” Oh boy. “The musical process may be slow but the reward is much greater.” I groaned internally. “I, myself, have actually played piano a bit in my youth but never to a serious extent. I could only dream of having your level of skill.” Her eyes widened. I knew exactly where this was heading. She gasped. “Idea!” her sing-song voice rang out, “I know! Why don’t we play together? You could even teach me a thing or two. We can’t let that musical talent go to waste.” I blinked. Okay, not what I was expecting. I was expecting her to ask me to play more, like in front of our friends or something. No, this was much worse. Me playing is one thing. Teaching it would be awful. And teaching it to Rarity of all ponies would be horrible! Er, no offense to her. She’s just a little… uptight at times. I looked into her eyes which were happily smiling at me with blatant giddiness. Great, just guilt me into it, why don’t ya? “Um, I’d… love to? But I can’t really do that right now because of,” I waved my hoof, trying to think an excuse, “I’m busy.” Really? “Oh, I know that already, Rainbow,” she said. “Huh?” “We have to get back to dress making!” “Huh.” I asked her for it.“Twilight? Twilight?!” I yelled into the halls of the giant castle.“You here?” A flash and a poping sound came from my left, followed by, “Right here, Rainbow. Nice of you to stop by.” “Good to see you, too,” I said, turning to Twilight, “How’s your personal palace coming along?” “It’s not a palace,” she denied in complete denial, “It’s just a simple, small castle.” “Sure, sure. So how is it?” She brightened up. “Quite well, actually. I just finished the library section; though, I’ll need to restock it quite a bit. Not much survived the old tree house.” “Wait, library?” “That’s right,” she answered, smiling, “Ponyville needed a new library, and I have all this free space, so…” I chuckled, “You’re such an egghead…” She rolled her eyes. “What brings you around? Need something?” “Need something?” I exclaimed dramatically, “What? Can’t I just hang out with my friend without needing something?” She smiled. “Aw, how thoughtful of you. Just in time to help me plan out the day-to-day, hour-to-hour schedule for the upcoming Winter Wrap Up, too! I’ve already begun organizing each individual role for each individual resident, but I could always use some help.” I stared at her blankly, my smile slowly dropping into a mortified frown at each word. “What?” she said, noticing my expression, or lack of it, “Don’t tell me you were just pulling my leg.” “Uh… no? I mean no! Of course not! I was just thinking of something. I’d… love,” I could barely say it, “…to help out.” Curse the Element of Loyalty! “Great!” she said, “Follow me. We can get started on assessing who can do what based on reviews of their past performances. Ooh, this is going to be so much fun!” I followed, my mind half-way to going into shock. First, Rarity, yesterday, now this?! Why do I have to be such a good friend? “Rainbow? Rainbow? You there?” a distant voice called out to me. Heh, my fuzzy mind said to me, I said the same thing earlier. Shaking my head, I groggily focused my blurry vision to see the befuddled face of Twilight staring at me. “Huh…?” I said drowsily, “What’s…?” “You were really out of it,” she said, “You were staring off into space. Right as I was getting into step twenty-six, too.” My eyes shot open. “I went through two-hundred and sixty-two steps?!” She looked at me, confused for a moment, before realization came to her. “No, just twenty-six. I said too as in ‘in addition to.’ Not the numerical value.” “I went through twenty-six steps?!” She looked at me, unamused. “Actually, I went through twenty-six. You just agreed with whatever I said.” “Huh, I don’t remember any of that.” She shrugged, “Well anyways, now that you’re… back, so to speak, we can get started again.” She magicked some wordy, picture-less papers in front of me. “Uh…” “Now then, I would recommend putting Ditzy Doo on a ground transportation team. She’s not good with… heavier objects.” She shuddered. “What do you think?” “I… sure?” “Glad you could see it my way. Next we have-” “Twilight?” I interrupted, “Remember when you asked if I needed something? Well, I kind of need something.” She looked at me funny. “Okay…” she drew out, “What is it?” “I need to know where to get started on a music career.” Okay, forget her looking at me funny earlier. The look she was giving me now was a really funny look. “Did you say music career?” “Yeah,” I admitted, a bit sheepish for some reason. It’s not that weird is it? I think her look gave me the answer. “As in… you having a music career?” “Yeah.” “You want to have a music career?” “More like a side thing but yeah.” “…Are you feeling alright?” “What? I’m fine. Almost died of boredom twice the past two days, but I’m fine.” She stared at me before lighting her horn. In a moment, a purple wave of magic emitted from it and scanned the length of my body. “Uh, what are you doing?” I asked uncomfortably. “Checking if you’re a changeling…” Her horn cut its light show. “…And you’re not. Well, I can’t wait to hear this story.” I shot her a suspicious look but went along with it, telling her of what happened yesterday. Afterwards, she looked at me, surprise and shock crossing her features. “Wow…” she managed, “I just… I’m impressed.” I smirked. “Yeah, I know. I’m a great athlete and a musical protégé.” “No, not that,” she said, “You actually got into a dress willingly. That’s simply… amazing!” I didn’t smirk this time. “Yeah, I know. So can you help me?” “You’d have to ask Rarity if you want any more dresses.” “No! Forget the dresses. I’m talking about the music thing.” “Oh, that,” she said, much less excitedly, “Yeah, I can help you look into that.” She looked at all the paperwork around her. “Though, we still have a lot to do and I know you wanted to help-” “Actually Twi,” I ceded, “I didn’t really want to do this. At all.” The last bit came out almost pleadingly. “Eh, I figured as much,” she said, “I’ll just have Spike help me.” “Darn it, Rainbow!” a baby dragon’s voice echoed from the castle halls. “…Wait. If you knew I didn’t want to then why did you drag me up here?” “Because you offered,” she said slyly. “…” “Anyways, a music career has different paths depending on what kind of position you want to fill. A composer, a producer, a performer-” “That one! I want to perform.” “Alright,” she said, “I figured you would like that one. I’d have to look into it more, but I imagine it’s not unlike what you’ve been doing for the Wonderbolts.” “What? Do I need to play at high speeds in midair? I’m sure I could pull it off, but I don’t think finding a piano for that would be easy.” “As interesting as that would be, no. I mean you should start off by performing at smaller venues that will take you then gradually move up as you gain a reputation. You’ve been doing that in your flying career by competing in the Young Flier’s Competition and attending the Academy.” “Okay, I get it. So where would I start?” She shrugged. “Anywhere. Perhaps a public area like a café looking for someone to perform live music. It could earn you a few bits along with allowing word of mouth to promote you. You’re already pretty well-known around here so the latter would probably spread fast.” “Great! Thanks for the help!” I said jumping up. I looked around the room. “Looking for something?” she asked. “Yeah… Is there a window nearby?” She gave me a flat look. “Use the door,” she deadpanned. “Thanks again!” I called as I flew out the room, accidentally sending her papers flying. Eh, my bad. Anyways, time to put step twenty-six, er, two into action. This is going to be awesome! They're asking for it."Glad you all could make it!" I declared to the mass of screaming fans in front of me. They, all five of them, looked back with various expressions of interest and curiosity. Well, except for one. She was as excited as always. So in a way, she made it a screaming crowd. "Rainbow?" Applejack asked, looking at me unamused, "Just why have ya dragged us all out to a piano bar?" I grinned as I took a glance behind me at the place, looking out from the round table we all sat at. It wasn't anything too special, just a small place in town, but I have to admit, it had a good atmosphere. It was situated right in the spot between shady and lively. As I turned back to them, I caught sight of Rarity and Twilight sharing a knowing look. "That's right," I addressed, causing them to look back as if they were caught with a hoof in the cookie jar, "You were all brought here for that." “What now?" Applejack asked, "You told them but ya didn't tell the rest of us?" "Eh, sort of. I needed Twilight's help setting this up and Rarity was just..." My hoof made a swirling motion as I thought of an answer. I had a feeling saying "horning in" wouldn't have been appreciated. "...Being Rarity," I finished. "Dear," she said flatly as she gave me a raised-eyebrow look, "May I ask what you mean by that?" I matched her fake accent (It is fake, right? Who actually talks like that?). "No darling, you may not ask." Her lip curled into an expression that asked, "Really?" Call me crazy, but I'm pretty sure that it also had an accent. "Can ya just tell us why we're here?" Applejack deadpanned. "You bet!" I replied. Clearing my throat, I announced, "Ladies and..." I looked at the group. "...Applejack." I held back a smirk as I heard her indignant snort. "I have gathered you all here today to witness the most amazing feats ever known to ponykind—" "Trixie already said that." Pinkie piped in. "What?" I cried, "But I spent all of last night coming up with them!" "I liked them..." Fluttershy commented, "They sounded... dramatic." Rarity asked to her, "Weren't you someplace else when Trixie was talking like that on her first visit?" She blinked. "Oh." "Anyways," I said gaining their attention again, "I brought you all here for a truly awe-inspiring, amazing, simply awesome—" "Just get to the point, Rainbow," Applejack said. I grinned at her. "Oh, but you won't be so smug when you see what I'm offering. You better hold onto that hat of yours because it'll just come flying off—" She glared at me. I smirked back, eyes half-lidded in my own teasing sense of humor. What can I say? She keeps walking into it. "You know, Applejack," Twilight spoke, "The more you push her, the more she's going to stall." Hey gaze traveled from mine to Twilight's, then back to mine. She narrowed her gaze as she ceded. "Fine." I held back a chuckle. "I win," I mouthed silently to her. Her eyes widened and nostrils flared; she nearly stamped her hoof but set it down quietly, minding the business around here. She opened her mouth to say something, and I widened my smile to match. Her mouth hung silently for a moment before she slowly closed it, her eyes drilling into me. Well, mostly. If they can't kill, they can't drill. That worked well, I thought, taking a moment to take in the sweet stench of victory. "Alright," I said, "I guess I'll tell you since you've been oh-so patient with me." I took in a deep breath, letting my head follow the exhale. "I brought you all here to listen to my first ever concert." Three out of five sets of eyes widened. Scratch that, two out of five. The one-pony crowd was already like that. "Oh, wow!" the one-pony crowd known, also known as Pinkie, said, "I didn't know you played an instrument. Is it a harmonica? Drum? Organ? 'Cause I play all of them!" I glanced at the piano across the room. "Yes," I answered. "Hold it," Applejack said, "Ya'll are tellin' me the self-proclaimed fastest athlete in Equestria can sit down and play one of them 'classical' instruments." "Eeyup." Applejack turned to Twilight. "Is she a changelin'?" She shook her head. "No. I already checked." "Rainbow? Care to explain?" I nodded. "Long story short, I was put through the torturous game of being forced to take lessons as a foal. But thanks to Rarity, I've done a complete three-sixty." For some reason, Twilight opened her mouth to say something, but she just shook her head. "I'm going to give this a real shot." "More like a shot in the dark," she commented. It was my turn to roll my eyes. "More like a light in the dark. You just haven't heard me play. Once this guy—" I pointed to the pony currently playing some low-key tune, "—is done, they're going to call me up." "I assume you'll be playing out of your repertoire?" Rarity prompted. "Heh... no," I admitted, "I can barely remember how any of them went. I'll be going off of sheets." Slamming my hoof to the table, I declared, "But you better bet it'll be just as awesome! I even brought a second tip jar for when the first when gets filled." I pulled the glass container out just to prove my very valid point. "Dear Celestia..." Applejack muttered to my very valid point. "Oh, hey!" I said, "I have an idea! Why don't you all just tip me now and save yourselves the trouble of doing it later?" None of them moved. Well, that's what I get for being considerate, eh? "Rainbow..." Rarity started, her voice sounding hesitant, "I'm not sure you're seeing this right." “Huh?" I asked. Nothing was fuzzy to me. In fact, I'd say the reception was better than ever. "When I convinced you to try this out, I—" Whatever she was going to say was cut off as the barkeep announced over the mic, "And that was Blues performing... well, the blues. Next up, we have..." He paused to look at the paper he held. I recognized the sheet—it was the one I wrote on. My turn! "Next we have 'Spectrum' performing a medley of 'awesome beats.'" "I think we know who that is," Pinkie chimed in a sing-song voice. "Indeed," Twilight agreed, "But why did he call you 'Spectrum'?" I waved a hoof in dismissal. "I figured that if I was going to be famous, I'd need a cool stage name to match. Not that my real name isn't cool, of course." She grimaced slightly. "Not that that's a bad name... but why in Equestria did you think it was a good name?" "I like it, and it fits me, what with my mane and all. Besides, it was between 'Spectrum' and 'Spectrumare,' and the first one was better." I started pulling out the sheets from my bag as I talked. "Spectrumare..." she repeated morosely, "That sounds like a name a superhero would have..." "Thanks!" I replied. Her head hit the table. "Well, enjoy the show, girls. Sit back, order a cider, and listen to music." As fun as talking with them was, it was show time. Everything I needed clutched tightly in my grasp, I made a brisk trot to the center stage. Despite being called a piano bar, the place was more of an open mic kind of place. If you could do something, musical or not, then you were welcome to perform. Placing my tip jars in position, I bounded up to the stool with a flap of my wings. Of course, I figured, being called a piano bar would make it known for piano performances. I set out the sheet arrangement for my first song then took a look out to the demure crowd. My friends were easily the most colorful of the bunch, figuratively and literally, and were watching with mixtures of interest. The rest of the audience were random ponies, some I've seen around town, some not, along with fellow performers like that Blues guy who was currently taking his seat. Everyone else watched expectantly. I leaned towards the microphone situated just a bit above the keys as to not interfere and said, "Hellooo everypony!” Someone coughed in applause. “As you all heard, I’m Spectrum, and I’ll be the one that’s going to be spending the rest of the night in jail. ‘Why?’ you may ask. Because I’m going to be stealing the show!” Nailed it. “Without further ado, I present to you the best, the awesome, the radical—” “Get on with it,” some heckler decided to call out. I gave him a withering glare before turning promptly back to the instrument. I couldn’t help but smile, though. Nothing is better than proving a skeptic of your skill wrong. “Heh,” I muttered to myself, away from the mic, “On with the show.” I spread out my sheet music across the stand for the best view. “And here… we… go!” I struck a powerful minor chord high on the keyboard, its chime resonating across the room as a deep bass note accented the ominous feel. I smiled. Perfect. My hoof trekked down across the keyboard, instantly hitting a much lower series of notes that ascended into a buff riff of tension-building. I let it sit for only a moment, before bursting into a mid-tempo rocker. To be honest, I’m not sure what the song was, exactly, but I guess the best way to describe it would be a “bluesy, fast-paced waltz.” Even a bit classical at a few bits. Not that it mattered, really. It was close enough to rock for my tastes. Reaching a point where I had enough muscle memory to guide me, I took a look out to the crowd. Everyone was watching, or listening, rather, with interest, some actually wearing surprise. To my stifled laughter, one of them happened to be an orange coated friend of mine. As I ran through the end of the song, winding down from a dramatic climax, if I do say so myself, the sounds of applause filled the room. “Thank you, yes, thank you!” I said through the mic. Ah, I do love the sound of cheering fans. I basked in it for a moment more before breaking away to the next song. I had just four songs total, due in part to the short amount of time I had to prepare, but they were all good. Though, I did have to choose one I wasn’t a big fan of, which is what I prepared to start now. “This next song is a more elaborate piece, featuring the chromatic scale–” A wild chuckle flew through the crowd. I raised an eyebrow. “Okay, then…” I muttered before turning back to the piano. No time to ponder a joke everyone else suddenly heard. I had a song to perform. Why didn’t I like this one? Simple question, simple answer. Too slow! But people always seemed to like it so, hey, whatever works. I trailed a simple chord progression across the keys, picking out a warming melody with a more active bass filling in gaps. Not really feeling it, I just floated aimlessly through the song, that is, until one certain pony from earlier decided to flap his mouth again. “Too slow,” he commented. Even if I agreed, I wasn’t taking that. The piano came screeching to a halt, not that it was going fast to begin with, an unusual silence taking its place. I could feel everyone’s stares on me; I had just cut off in the middle of the song. I ignored them, however, in favor of the stallion that had interrupted. I turned to him, a wicked grin plastering my face. “No one,” I said, “Calls me slow.” I didn’t bother seeing his reaction. I knew I was right. With a simple flick of my hooves, the piano flew into an electrifying race, striking chords being played in rapid succession as the bass kept up the rhythm. Just as suddenly, the roles reversed as the melody turned into a series of descending and ascending notes before exploding into a mad dash down the keyboard. Now that! …is music. In simpler words: awesome. She's asking for it! You hear me?!“Say it.” “No.” “Say it!” “Not happenin’!” “You don’t understand, Applejack. I need to hear this.” The farm mare glared at me, sending me an expression that could only ask, “Really?” She shook her head, then took a sip of her cider. “Ah’m not sayin’ nothin’. ‘Specially not to the likes of you.” She wants to play this game? Heh, I invented this game. “What’s this?” I exclaimed, tossing my hooves in the air, “Good old Honest Applejack is refusing to admit the truth? Just what has this world come—” “That ain’t gonna work, Rainbow,” she deadpanned, taking another swig from her mug. “Oh, don’t deny you weren’t impressed. I saw that look on your face. Priceless, by the way.” “Ah ain’t admittin’ nothin’! I was just caught off guard, is all.” Rolling my eyes, I said, “Because you were so amazed by my awesomeness. I would’ve thought you would be used to it by now, but hey, I guess I’m just in a league all my own.” “The only thing here in a league its own,” she shot back, “is the size of your ego.” “I call it a bit of healthy pride.” “Keep tellin’ yourself that,” she dismissed before leaning back into her seat, crossing her arms out in front of her. I smirked at her; I knew exactly what that meant: her becoming stubborn to the point beyond reason. I guarantee those empty mugs of cider and a half were helping. I leaned back into my own chair, knowing I’d get nothing more out of her but her unshakable denial. Besides, she wouldn’t be hearing the end of this for a long time. “So how’d I sound? Epic, huh?” I asked, waving my hoof in the air, gesturing to them all. “You bet, ‘Spectrum,’” Pinkie said, winking at me. “It was… nice,” Fluttershy said. “Aw, thanks, Shy,” I replied, “That means a lot coming from you.” …That wasn’t sarcasm, by the way. I turned my attention back up as Twilight cleared her throat. “Looks like Rarity wasn’t exaggerating when she said you were skilled. And after such a long hiatus since last time? I’m impressed,” she said, getting an affirming nod form the designer, “Say, did you make much?” My brow furrowed. “Make what? That music? I didn’t write it.” “No,” she replied, shaking her head, “Did you make any bits? I’d be surprised if you didn’t.” “Oh, that! Heh, I…” Reaching down, I felt for the two jars down by my saddlebag—or would have, if there wasn’t empty space where they should’ve been. “Uh…” I muttered, my eyed widening. “You forgot them, didn’t ya?” Applejack deadpanned. My mouth opened to shoot back a burning reply—trust me, it would’ve been scalding—but the sound of lost, helpless bits going to waste overruled all other priorities. “Back-in-a-flash!” I rushed out, bolting off from the chair and taking a few napkins and menus and whatever-elses with me. Ignoring the frustrated protests emanating from the other bar goers, I set down next to the stage and breathed a sigh of relief as the jars came into sight, which promptly turned into a cry of, “Only one jar got anything?” Hearing the unmistakable sound of someone scoffing, I snapped my head in its direction, meeting the sight of some rust-coated stallion raising an eyebrow at me. “What? Something to say?” I challenged, my narrowed gaze daring him to talk back. Under my harsh, unrelenting gaze, he merely rolled his eyes. “This is a small business in a small town, not the halls of Canterlot castle. What were you expecting? Both jars to be overflowing?” My eyes darted down to the jars for just a tad moment too long. His hoof met his face. “No one even knows who you are, Spectrum.” “Hey, hey, everyone knows me. I’m Rainbow Dash, fastest flier in Equestria.” “That’s true, but—” I barely noticed the smug smile on my face; apparently he did. “But!” he continued, “No one knows who Spectrum is.” This time, I did notice my facial expression. It was confusion. “That doesn’t make any sense. I’m Rainbow Dash and Spectrum, so ponies know who the latter is.” He shook his head, answering my further bewildered expression by saying, “How about this? You know who Blues is?” “The guy that performed before me?” “Yeah, but have you heard of him before that?” “Mm…” I mmed, rubbing my chin, “I think so… Doesn’t he perform whenever Ponyville is having some event going on? Like a festival?” “Right. Now, answer me this: do you know who Noteworthy is?” “…Nope. Never heard of him.” Pointing his hoof out toward Blues sitting at another table, he said, “What if I told you that Blues and Noteworthy are the same pony? See what I’m getting at?” I looked out to the pony in question. Blues and Noteworthy? I thought, But I only knew him by one name, so— “Hey, Dashie! You coming?” “Hold your horses! Just need a second,” I called back to Pinkie. Turning back to the stallion, I said, “I think I see what you mean.” He smirked, saying, “Good. Now, if you don’t mind…” He gestured back to his table. “Sure thing,” I said, getting the hint, “Thanks.” “Mmhm.” With a nod, I made a trot back to my friends, taking a seat and laying my jars—er, jar—of bits. Of course, that prompted everyone to take a look at the glass container, the empty glass container, and then to me. One certain stentson wearing farmer raised an eyebrow then opened her mouth to speak. “Don’t say a word,” I monotoned. Letting out a victorious “hmph” (which totally wasn’t a victory), she kept a smirk on me as she went for another drink. I moved to shoot her a suspicious gaze, but Pinkie pulled me away—quite literally. “What were you talking about with Rustburrow?” she asked, her foreleg interlocking into mine as I was yanked along next to her, chair and all. “Eh…” Tugging my stolen limb back to the safety of myself, I asked, “Rustburrow? You know him?” She nodded, her puffy cotton candy of a mane bouncing along for the ride. “Why wouldn’t I? I know everyone in Ponyville. Heck, his son’s birthday party a few years back is one of my favorites.” “Really? Why’s that?” I asked, actually interested. For a pony who throws parties twenty-four/seven, whether there be an occasion or not, it must have been pretty good. “You don’t remember it?” she gasped, “But you ended up being the star of the entire celebration!” “I was? Why’s that?” Now, I was really interested. “You were helping me keep everything skipping along jollily and were put in charge of the piñata when suddenly bam! The colt in the blindfold whacks right between the eyes!” My face instinctively flinched at the words. “Huh. I don’t remember that at all.” “Any idea why?” she asked, her tone rising on every word as she looked at me expectantly. I shook my head. “Beats me.” For the second time within a few minutes, everyone stared at me in silence, the exception being one party pony who just started giggling. I blinked. “…So…” Rarity cleared her throat. “Rustburrow?” “Oh, right. He told me about how Blues is well known, but Noteworthy isn’t… by ponies other than Pinkie.” “Aw…” she moaned, slowly lowering her hoof back down. “Noteworthy…” Twilight said, setting her chin down on her hoof, “Can’t say I’ve heard of him.” “Exactly.” She cocked her head. “Well, what did he mean by that?” “His persona is more notable than his actual identity, if I’m understanding this right. The Rusty guy was saying Rainbow Dash is like that—more notable than Spectrum.” “Ah, I understand,” Twilight responded, “I’ve heard of that before. It’s actually more common than you think. Remember that Nightmare Night awhile back? Princess Luna was seen as Nightmare Moon rather than herself to an extent.” “Yeah, I remember her. I remember her zapping my flank with a lightning bolt.” “Ya’ll had it comin’.” “Quiet you! Go back to your cider!” She shrugged, not finding the suggestion half bad. “Anyways…” I said, “Yeah. I’m more famous than myself. Who would’ve thought?” “Um… Wouldn’t that be a good thing?” Fluttershy added, “Since ponies already know you, wouldn’t that make getting your name out easier?” “Not necessarily,” Twilight interjected, drawing a look of surprise from Fluttershy and I, “Ponies may know you, but that’s not why they know you. You’re known for flying high and breaking everyone’s windows whenever you go supersonic, not sitting down and playing an instrument. The fact that those are about as diametrically opposed as can be just makes it worse.” Yeah, still not getting it. “So… how’s that bad thing again? I’m sure I can find ways to break windows with a piano if that’s the problem.” She twiddled her hoof aimlessly in the air as she thought. “Hm, let’s put it this way. Say you went to a Wonderbolts show, but instead of performing aerobatics and the stunts that made them famous, they sat down and performed Beethoofen’s Fifth Symphony. What would you think of that?” “I’d still love it.” She rolled her eyes. “Of course you would. But how do you think the less…” “Obsessed?” Applejack, helpful as ever, offered. I rolled my eyes. “You know, you really turn into a wise pony when you’re drunk.” “Ah’m always drunk, and Ah’m not wise!” Finally, the staring was on someone else for a change, and it took her all of five seconds to figure out why. “…Oh! A-Ah mean the other way around! Ah’m always wise… and…” “Alright,” I declared, snatching her mug away from her, “This apple has had too much cider.” Defeated, she sat back in her chair, hat pulled low and grumbling inaudibly to herself. “Heh…” I turned back to Twilight. “Now, what were we saying?” “How would someone other than you react to the Wonderbolts playing instruments instead of performing an airshow?” “Oh, yeah,” I replied, recalling her words, “Mm… I’d say there would be a lot of confusion over what’s going on.” She nodded, saying, “Exactly. I believe this is what Rustburrow was trying to tell you. Everyone knows you as the flier pegasus, not the musical pegasus.” With that, my lips curled into a disappointed frown, my ears folding backwards. “So that’s it? I can’t be a pianist and a flier? I have to choose one or the other.” “Not so fast.” Twilight reacted, perking my attention again, “As much as you’d hate to admit it, you’re not in the Wonderbolts yet. I’d say it’s not too late to build up a reputation as a musician.” “Really? How would I do that?” “I’d say to—” “Ooh! Ooh! Can I answer this one?” Pinkie interrupted. The Princess of Librarians shrugged, then gestured for her to go ahead. “Okie-dokie-lokie!” She turned to me, beaming in her own brilliance. “Do it in the traditional Dashie style: with a bang!” Applejack, surprisingly, actually spoke up again from the realm of blurred senses. “Good idea,” she said, “Rainbow’s great at banging.” If one can hear five sets of eyes widening simultaneously, it would’ve been an orchestra right then and there. Four of said pairs promptly reintroduced me to the house of awkward, silent staring for the third and hopefully final. I shook myself back to my senses before saying, “I have no idea what she’s talking about.” “Oh, what’s the matter, Dashie?” Applejack taunted, much to my growing chagrin, “There’s no need to be embarrassed. We all have our quirks… Heh, you certainly do.” “Gah! I-I…” Stop sputtering and defend yourself! “You’re lying,” I shot back, the horrible choice of words coming out faster than my hoof could cover my mouth. She smirked an evil, knowing grin. I had just made it so easy for her! “Now, now,” she said, “We all know Ah’m good old Honest Applejack, remember? Ah don’t lie.” I recoiled backward, the words hitting me like a train. A smug, drunk, stentson wearin’ train. “Uh… heh… she has a…” I heard Twilight say, which promptly earned her a glare that commanded, “Stay out of this.” Needless to say, she decided to comply. Staring into those cocky eyes of hers, I could practically feel the pure evil coming from her. She’s totally doing this on purpose, using her own drunkenness to get back at me. Heck, the fact that she’s taking herself down with me just makes her look more believable—in other words, she sinking the boat to get the captain. “You’re making this up,” I challenged, “Just because you were the Element of Honesty doesn’t mean you can’t lie.” I crossed my forelimbs, doing my best haughty impression. “But enough of this. I have the much more important deal of my own future in music to plan out.” She met my gaze for one moment, her eyes half lidded and her lips smiling widely. “Alright,” she said simply. Waving her hoof at me, she went back to her reclining position, but not before taking one last stab at me. “I win,” she mouthed. Oh, no! Teeth gritting, I sent the most withering glare I had at her. She merely ignored me, content to bask in the knowledge that anything more out of my mouth would just help her. Well fine, I decided, We’re even… for now. Grumbling, myself, I turned back to Twilight, who was finding the nearby walls quite interesting along with the rest of the gang (save for the party pony who just kept giggling to herself as always). “Pinkie suggested to get my name out there with a ba—a blast. Any suggestions?” “Uh… Put on a concert?” I shook my head. “I would, but I don’t know enough songs right now to go on for an hour straight. …Huh. I really am out of practice…” “Maybe just do that? Practice?” Rarity suggested, “At least until you feel you’re ready.” I just gave a noncommittal shrug in return. That made sense; I’ve practiced my flying enough to know just how important it is. Nonetheless, I’m a… little bit impatient… sometimes… like now, for instance. Thinking back on my flying, what did I do in that to build up my reputation? “…Wait, I know! I’ll do what I do best!” “Banging?” Pinkie suggested, trying and failing to hold back a fit of laughter with a hoof to her mouth. “Yeah! …Wait, no! No! Forget about that! I’m talking about racing, or in this case, competing. I’ll win competitions!” “That could work,” Twilight agreed, taking a sip of her own drink, before setting it back down, gagging at the taste. “You know,” she added, “Piano bars like this one often have ‘duels’ where musicians face off for the crowd.” “Really? Great! Now I just need someone to obliterate… Be right back!” Jumping out of my seat, my sight danced around the premises, searching through the plethora of ponies dining and drinking until I found the target. Smirking, I took a wing propelled bound over to him, setting down right by his side. I earned myself a curious glance, but it was his attention nonetheless. “Blues! I challenge you to a music duel. Right here. Right now.” He blinked, caught off guard for a moment, but then looked at the guys sitting at his table. He shrugged, which they promptly shrugged back to, apparently having a full conversation through gestures. Looking back at me, he said, “I’ll admit this is a bit unorthodox and sudden, but why not? I’ll tell the keep to set things up.” “Awesome! I hope you’re ready to be swept aside!” “We’ll see…” he chuckled, leaving his seat and heading to the bar. Smiling victoriously to myself, I turned to head back to my no-doubt confused group of friends. “She has no idea what she’s getting into.” My head whipped around, and I stared down the ponies at the table through a narrowed gaze. Not one of them even acknowledged me, as if they hadn’t said anything. Whatever, I thought, taking my leave once again. I’ll show them. “What did you just do?” Twilight asked as I returned. “Just challenged Blues to a duel.” “What?!” “I know, right? It’s going to start any minute.” “No, Rainbow! Why would you do that?” My brow furrowing, I replied, “Why not? You suggested a duel.” “Yes, but not like this. Don’t you realize who Blues is?” “Um… a blue pony who plays the blues?” Her hoof met her face. “Ugh… Let me put it this way: he’s been voted Ponyville’s top musician for six years and running.” “…Oops.” A pink-coated hoof wrapped around me, followed by Pinkie flashing me a confident smile. “Aw, don’t worry. What’s the worst that could happen?” Needless to say, I didn’t share in her enthusiasm. I perked my ear as a whistle flowed through the air. Tracing it to its origin, I saw the barkeep next to Blues and gesturing me over. Well, I thought, This might have been a mistake. I'm asking her for it. Really, this time.“That was a huge mistake.” I was shaking my head as I trotted away from the piano bar, the sound of a glorious fiesta trailing just behind my ears. I’d be the first to admit that I do love the festivities of parties—the celebrating, the desserts, the Pinkie Pie—but this party! This was not one I could love, much less tolerate being in. “Aw, don’t be down, Dashie. Just what were the odds that the worst possible thing that could happen actually did happen?” Pinkie called to me, bouncing to my side on her hooves. Turning to the party pony, I replied, “‘Worst possible thing?’ You sound like Rarity. Apparently it was a lot more likely than we realized considering it actually happened! I mean, did you see the crowd?! He got every one of them to sing along.” Twilight trotted up to my other side, giving my shoulder a bump to get my attention. “To be fair, you didn’t actually perform any songs to sing along to. You were strictly instrumental.” “Ugh.” I knew she was right, but it didn’t make it any better. I had gotten my flank handed to me on a silver platter—scratch that—a blue platter. Letting out an exasperated sigh, I grumbled, “You shouldn’t be allowed to perform ‘Piano Mare’ if you’re a stallion…” “I… huff… thought… huh… you did well…” I heard Fluttershy sputter out. “Uh, you okay there?” I asked, craning my neck to see her… and Applejack draped across her. “…I think you’ve got something on your back… Here, let me help.” “Thank you!” she breathed, shifting her weight so I could get the passed out pony onto my back as well. “I didn’t think she had this much to drink,” I commented. Flashing me a sheepish grin, she said, “Oh, well, she ordered another drink… or three… when you started falling behind in the competition.” “Yeah, yeah… Hey, where’s Rarity? I would’ve thought she would help you carry her. Sorry about not doing that earlier, by the way. I didn’t notice.” “It’s fine, Dash. Don’t worry about it. As for Rarity, she left earlier. She said she was sorry she couldn’t stick around, but she needed to get back home for her sister. She was out longer than she expected to be.” “That’s fine,” I responded, only a little miffed that she missed out, but hey, I can’t blame her. “Mmhm. She also wanted me to tell you this.” Clearing her throat, she recited, “You were simply splendid, darling. Truly, I didn’t realize you were on such a high level until now. Remember, you are always welcome to come by and practice whenever you like.” “Nice Rarity impression.” A rosy tint coming to her cheeks at the praise, she said, “Thanks, I guess.” “Well, thanks for inviting us out,” Twilight piped in, “It was fun. Sorry you didn’t win the competition.” “Eh, don’t worry about it,” I dismissed, waving my hoof, “As much as I hate losing, it happened. Besides, just motivation to get better, am I right?” “That’s the spirit,” she chuckled, “I’m going to be heading home now, alright? See you around!” “Same here,” Pinkie agreed, “I thought you did fantastic! Do you two need help with Applecider over here?” “Nah, I’m good. You, Fluttershy?” “No thank you.” Turning back to Pinkie, I said, “In that case, see you all later. Thanks again for coming out!” With their own farewells, they set off, leaving me with Fluttershy and the merrily intoxicated Applejack. “Let’s hit the road?” She nodded, starting our trip to Sweet Apple Acres. The door swung open, revealing the form of Applejack’s brother stepping through. “Apple…?” he started, trailing off at the sight of in front of him—two tired, grinning pegasi with his unconscious sister draped across their backs. “…jack.” “Special delivery!” we chanted, then lasting all of two seconds before breaking into giggling. Big Mac only raised an eyebrow as he looked between us. “Eeyup…” I offered a hoof bump to Fluttershy, which she returned after having to take a moment to figure out what I was actually doing. “So… Miss Dash, Miss Fluttershy? AJ?” Big Mac prompted. “Went to a bar,” I answered, “And don’t worry about all this ‘Miss’ stuff. You’ve accidentally bucked me out of enough trees to say we’re friends, right?” “Alright, Miss Dash.” He raised his hoof toward Applejack. “Cider?” “Eeyup!” Rolling his eyes, he said, “Bring her in.” I nodded, turning to Fluttershy again. “Okay, want—” Applejack groaned in her sleep, rolling over onto her side… which wasn’t a very good idea considering it was a one-way trip to the cold, hard ground. On the bright side, she didn’t seem to mind. The three of us looked from Applejack, to each other, and then back to Applejack. “Darn…” I said, “Third time that’s happened.” “Ah’ll get here,” Big Mac said, then trotted around to push her onto his back. He turned his neck to look at us again. “Thanks for bringin’ her here.” “No problem!” “Mmhm… Well then, goodnight ya’ll?” “Goodnight. See ya later,” I answered, Fluttershy echoing something along those lines as well. As he turned away, Applejack’s slumped from in tow, a thought—or rather, a lovely little idea—came to me. “Hey, Big Mac?” I called, “When she wakes up, tell her that she’s also great it.” The sound of Fluttershy’s embarrassed squeak told me I’d done well. “Uh…” he replied, eyeing the canary-coated pegasus and her blushing, “Great at what?” “Oh, she’ll know. Trust me,” I replied, a few cackles breaking in-between my words. He put me under a suspicious gaze but shrugged. “All right,” he agreed, prompting a victorious snicker out of me. Giving a final nod, he took him and his sister inside. “Heheh, I think she’ll love that joke, eh?” “Um, uh, I… yes?” she responded, completely confident in her answer as always. “Haha... By the way, thanks for playing along with the ‘special delivery’ joke earlier. I know that’s not your usual shtick.” “Oh, don’t worry about it. It was…” “Nice?” I suggested. “Funny,” she finished. I rolled my eyes, letting out a chuckle. “Nice seeing you, Fluttershy. Thanks for coming out.” “Of course,” she said, “Anytime.” “You good walking home from here?” Getting a nod in return, I continued, “Then see you later! I’ve got to get some sleep. I’ve got things to do and things to say!” “Bye, Dash. Goodnight.” “‘Night!” I bid, before taking off and watching the canary-colored shape of Fluttershy shrink into a faded dot below me. It was the next day when I found myself at the keyboard once again. Taking up Rarity’s offer, I was using her grand, mostly because it was the only place I was able to practice. Fortunately, she didn’t mind; if anything, she seemed delighted that I was back, going on about keys and whatever else. A sneaking suspicion told me that I should be worried about that. In the meantime, I was practicing. “What was I practicing?” you’re probably asking. Well, the answer would be… everything. I was going through every routine I could think of—learning new pieces, refining old ones; doing scale runs up and down the piano’s length; and just about every mechanical skill I might ever need. By that last one, I’m talking about small yet important skills that help out in the long run, like the thing about “rolling” off the key to make it softer I told Rarity a bit ago. It was fun and all, but it really showed me just how out of practice I am. It’s a wonder I got through my pieces at the bar so smoothly! …Until the competition, that is. I’ll admit I made a mistake in challenging that guy, but I did learn from it. What he did that I didn’t was to really get the crowd involved, mostly through his singing. Hey, an instrument can only do so much on its own. I supposed I could sing, myself, but I haven’t tried doing that while playing yet, and, to be honest, I know I don’t exactly have the best singing voice. Don’t get me wrong; I can hit notes and all that, but I’m aware that my voice is a bit scratchy or rough or… boyish or whatever you want to call it. In any case, I’ll figure it out later. Heh, Twilight was right. This is just like practicing my flying for the Wonderbolts, only with my hooves doing the talking rather than my wings. Though, I knew flying would always be my one true love, and this and whatever else that comes along would be second. Well, except for my friends and family, but that was obvious, and I’m thinking too far into this. Anyways, music! Right. Honestly, I’m surprised I’ve gotten myself this far involved with it already. I could just hear my parents’ “I told you so” if they ever found out. I was pulled back into focus as my hooves played one final chord, embellishing a tune with a deep, resonating tone. I blinked and had to take a moment to comprehend just what had happened. Was I really being all thoughtful while I was playing? I wondered. Breaking into a grin, I realized yes, I had. If I can go off on a thinking tangent while in the middle of a song without messing up, then I must be doing something right. Just as long as I’m not relying on muscle memory for it. As useful as it is, it can blank on you at the worst possible moments. Well, what better way to find out than to try it again? Getting my hooves back into position, I counted down in my head… one, two, three, one, two— “How are you holding up, darling?” Rarity conveniently interrupted, stepping into the room. She propped up her forearm against the piano, leaning against it. “I do hope you’re fine. I know it can get stuffy in here.” Taking my hooves off the keys before looking at he, I said, “Nah, I’m good. Thanks.” “You sure? Need anything? Some water, perhaps?” “No thanks,” I replied, glancing back down at the keyboard. She remained frozen in her spot, and I felt her stare boring into me. “…Actually, I’ll take you up on that offer.” She beamed. “Coming right up, dear!” In a minute, she came back with a glass, which I greedily accepted. I heard her give her light, ladylike laugh as she watched me, saying, “It’s great having you here, Dash.” “Mmf?” I answered, mouth still full. “That’s right. I feel that, out of our circle of friends, we never spent much quality time together. Outside of us being with the others.” “Mmf.” “Mmhm, Rainbow. You know, I ought to be paying you for playing here. All of the customers that have arrived today have been enthralled with the music flowing in the air, especially when I told them you were playing it live.” “Mm… Heh, thanks. It’s nothing really; just me being awesome as always.” That got a roll of her eyes. “Rarity?” I heard a softer, younger voice call, “You wanted me? Where are you?” “Over here, Sweetie,” she answered before turning back to me. At seeing the raised-eyebrow look I was giving her, she elaborated. “Recall how you’ve been giving me lessons—er, lesson?” Oh… that. “Yeah?” I answered, smiling along innocently. “Well,” she said, putting far too much emphasis on the word, “I had a marvelous idea. Sweetie could learn as well. It’s very beneficial to start at such a young age, and she already has such a lovely singing voice to accompany it.” She looked off distantly for a moment, no doubt imagining fame and fortune and everything that goes with it in her sister’s future. She shook her head, pulling herself out of her trance. “Is that alright with you?” “Of course,” I chuckled, coming out more akin to nervous laughter, “…Wait, did you say sing—” “What is… it?” Sweetie trailed off as she entered the room, seeing the sight of me. “Oh, hi Rainbow Dash. What’s going on?” “Hey! Yeah, yeah, I think you’d better let your sister explain that.” Looking to Rarity, the pony in question explained, “Dash, here, is going to give you piano lessons.” Sweetie blinked, taken aback at the simple words. I couldn’t tell if it was because of the new hobby she was going to have or because I was teaching her. Furrowing her brow, she said, “Piano? Ugh, I knew that was why you got it…” “Now, Sweetie,” Rarity said, wrapping her foreleg around her, “Don’t be like that. I’m sure you’ll enjoy it. Just imagine how well it will sound with your singing voice!” “Rarity, are you planning my future for me again?” “Er...” Sweetie breathed out an exasperated sigh, as if this was a common occurrence. Knowing Rarity, it probably was. Shifting her intrigued gaze to me, she asked, “You can play piano?” “You bet!” “And you’re going to teach me?” “Yup!” Her face gave me message somewhere between “What the heck?” and “Why the heck?” Not taking her eyes off me, she asked Rarity, “Is she a—?” “No, Sweetie, she’s not a changeling. We’ve already checked.” Seeing the remaining skepticism in her features, I decided the best way to convince her would be to show her, and so I did, playing a free-flowing melody that was simple in nature yet showy enough to send the message. Finishing with a ringing chime, I glanced at Sweetie’s reaction. “Oh, wow,” she said, eyes widened in surprise, “I didn’t know you were good at stuff other than flying.” “Uh… thanks?” I replied, unable to keep from glancing at the glare Rarity was sending her sister’s way. “In any case…” Rarity started, “What do you think, Sweetie?” “I don’t have choice, do I?” Rarity smiled. “No, dear.” Shaking her head, she sighed, “Ugh, fine.” “Splendid!” her sister chimed, springing up straight, “I would love to join you today, but I still have my boutique to care for. I fear I’ve already been gone too long a time already. If you need anything, you know where I’ll be.” “Okay,” Sweetie and I both groaned. With a giggle, the designer left, practically skipping out of the room. There was a moment of silence as the filly and I watched her depart then turned to each other, neither of us wanting to make the first move; though, someone did have to lest we stare at each other for an hour straight. Thinking about it, that actually didn’t sound too bad in comparison to having to teach. “So…” I started. She continued staring at me. “Piano…!” I said, mustering some enthusiasm up. Finally, she moved, shaking her head as she said, “Can we just say you taught me? She’s always trying to get me into all these…” Her eyes rolled as she mimicked her sister’s accent. “‘Ladylike avocations.’” Tempting, I thought, But not happening. “No can do. If I’m being forced into this, then so are you.” “Then…” she said, putting her hoof to her chin to think, “Can we force Applebloom and Scootaloo into it too?” Suddenly, my vision flashed to a dystopian future of Ponyville, horrid, dissonant piano noise plaguing the air as the innocent residents wailed as they covered their ears in vain. “No!” I shrieked, bolting upright and making Sweetie jump. “Er, no… Sorry about that.” Eyeing me strangely, she only replied, “Uh… no problem.” “Heh… Alright, what say we get started?” “I guess,” she said, shrugging as her gaze shifted to the piano. I bit back the words I was going to say at seeing her… almost dejected face. I knew that face; I always would have that same one when I was her age, sitting mindlessly for hours on end at this very instrument. Oh, Celestia! I realized, I’m doing exactly what my parents did to me! I can’t do that! I couldn’t. “Ugh…” I moaned to myself. On one hoof, I’d turn into the world’s biggest hypocrite. On the other, I’d already promised Rarity. Even more, this was for Sweetie just as much for me; if not, more. My ear perked as I heard Sweetie muttering to herself, saying, “I don’t see why I have to do this. I can sing already.” Sing… Oh, right! She’s a singer! That’s what I was thinking about earlier. Then, bam! Inspiration struck me. “Idea!” I sang aloud, prompting a raised eyebrow out of Sweetie. “I know what we can do,” I told her, “Tell me, do you like singing?” Taken aback by the sudden shift in conversation, she hesitated before answering. “Uh… yes?” “Are you good at it?” I continued, not missing a beat. “I… think so? I haven’t performed for anyone except Rarity and my friends. They insist I’m great.” “Really? Then… would you be able to sing the note I play on here?” I said, gesturing to the range of keys on the piano. “I don’t know? Maybe? Why are we talking about my singing?” “Because, Sweetie, I have an idea that would not only get you out of piano lessons, but would benefit your singing!” Now visibly interested, she agreed. “Sure. Sounds like win-win to me.” “Awesome! Try… this note,” I said, pressing down on a mid-range note, close to what most ponies talk at normally. She listened to it for a moment, her face scrunching up as she tried to focus in on it. Then, taking a breath, her voice came out, quiet at first before locking into a moderate echo of the note, right on key. After a few more seconds, she stopped, looking distastefully at the keyboard. “Sorry that wasn’t so good. I haven’t warmed up… Why are you smiling like that?” True, I was smiling like an escaped convict, but I didn’t care enough to change it. “Are you kidding?” I exclaimed, “That was perfect, and I’m not even a singer.” “…Doesn’t that hurt your argument?” “Doesn’t matter,” I dismissed, waving my hoof off, “Here, can you do this note?” This time, I picked a higher one, which she promptly hit right on the head. Grinning wider, I pushed down an ever lighter one, then a low note, and even an extra high note on the scale I was sure she wouldn’t be able to pull off. And she got every single one. “That’s amazing! You’re amazing! This is perfect!” I gushed, drawing a modest blush out of her. “Thanks,” she said, “But what’s perfect. You still haven’t told me your idea.” I nodded. “Right! So, Sweetie, how would you like…” Her eyes widened in anticipation. “To be my own personal singer?” I finished, throwing up my hooves theatrically. Her reaction, actually, wasn’t as enthusiastic as I’d hoped. “You’re singer?” she repeated, “For what?” “For performances, of course,” I laughed, “You, me, and the fame of being famous.” “So… like a piano-vocal duet?” she asked. “Right!” She shrugged, running a hoof through her pinkish mane. “I don’t know…” “Huh?” I reacted, dropping into a frown, “Why not? I bet you could get your cutie mark from it!” She shot me an unamused glance. “…Not working?” “Rarity uses it daily.” “Heh… Anyways, why not? It would be awesome.” “Yeah, probably,” she admitted, sending another spark of hope through me, “But… What about Rarity? She’s expecting me to learn an instrument, not become famous.” “Oh, I see. Don’t worry about her; the reason she puts you through all that ‘ladylike avocation’ stuff is so you can become famous. Or at least successful. Have a wide range of talent for whatever you’ll ever need, ya know?” “Yeah, I know… But, I don’t know about suddenly becoming a singer with you. Just…” I nodded, putting a hoof on her shoulder. “Yeah, I did just spring that on you huh? I guess you need time to think?” Now it was her turn to nod. “Alright,” I said, “Sorry about rushing you. I can get ahead of myself, I know. Tell you what. I’ll talk to Rarity if you’re concerned about her, and you can take all the time you like.” “Okay, Rainbow Dash,” she said, darning a welcome smile again, “Sounds like a plan.” “Haha, that’s the spirit. Now, instead of a boring lesson, why don’t you go do whatever all you foals do nowadays? I’ll tell Rarity I let you go.” “Thanks!” she replied, springing to her hooves. Making headway toward the door, she called back, “See you around!” “See you! Oh, and Sweetie?” She looked back at me as I said, “I hope you don’t feel pressured by me. Only do this if you want to, okay?” Flashing me a grin, she nodded. “Okay. Bye!” “Bye!” I returned, watching her go. …Heh, I thought, this could work out well. I might have just gotten a singer, and an amazing one at that. Ponies love it when foals do stuff like this, and Sweetie’s what? Ten? I think she’ll have a blast. Though, I really do hope I didn’t put her into an uncomfortable position and all. We’re friends already, right? I mean, it’s not like I haven’t hung out with Rarity’s sister before, just now it would be just her without the Crusaders. Assuming of course, she doesn’t tell them… even though they’re her best friends that she tells everything to… and one of which probably has an unhealthy obsession with me as a sister… oh. Well, what’s the worst that could happen? They force themselves into the plan in some strange way? Maybe want to perform another rock opera? Haha… heh… …huh. Okay, I asked for part of it. Just a part!I fell to the floor, exhausted and gasping for air. Above me, Rarity looked down at my display unamused. “Honestly Rainbow,” she said, “The theatrics are unnecessary. Dressmaking is quite an enjoyable affair if you would just allow yourself to be immersed in it. “Unnecessary theatrics?” I deadpanned, taking a nice, long look at her. She gave a quite unladylike glare before turning, putting away her supplies. “Thank you for your time Rainbow. I’m going to tidy up the room, get everything back in order. You can wait downstairs if you would like. Perhaps warm up?” she hinted. Unfortunately, I wasn’t in any condition for a guessing game. “Warm up?” I asked. “Yes, warm up. On the piano.” Oh. “Even the best musicians have to warm up.” She was serious about this. “Yeah… about that,” I started, “I kinda… don’t want to teach piano. Or play piano. Or be near a piano.” She looked at me surprised, “Why ever not? You were so good at it.” “Just because I’m good doesn’t mean I enjoy it.” “We can’t just let your talent be wasted, though.” “I’ve been wasting it for years. I think I’ll be fine,” I said, smiling, “Besides, I’m a flier. I’m going to be a Wonderbolt. Not some pianist.” She thought for a moment, then smiled. “I don’t think you see the bigger picture.” “And how’s that?” I challenged. “Just imagine this. You, a Wonderbolt-” “Easy,” I interjected, “Do it all the time.” She cleared her throat. “You a Wonderbolt… and a pianist!” She looked at me expectantly. I looked at her unimpressed. “That all?” “Here, allow me to elaborate. You perform all your fancy acrobatics-” “Aerobatics,” I corrected. “Aerobatics, she stressed, “And on the side you perform grand concerts to crowded halls filled with lovely, admiring fans, all of them having come just to hear your wondrous escapades in music!” I wondered if she was talking to herself. She got like this whenever describing her own dreams. But really, she was losing me. Not that she ever had me. I didn’t see the appeal. She must have picked up on this, as she quickly went on. “Picture what it would be like,” she tried, “An athletic Wonderbolt who’s also an amazing musician. You would bridge two different audiences; you would be popular beyond belief.” “Popular beyond belief?” I repeated aloud. She smiled triumphantly. “That’s right!” she capitalized, “Why, you could do it effortlessly with the skill you already possess. Dozens upon dozens of fans right at your hooftips. Which only require you to put those hooftips to the keyboard.” I thought for a moment. Then I came to a profound conclusion: I actually did see the appeal of that. Okay, I might have a bit of an ego. Just a little bit! But who wouldn’t want to be admired by thousands? Well, other than Fluttershy. She can actually speak from experience. “You know what Rarity?” I said, drawing her attention, “I’ll give this a shot. Where do we start?” She smiled. “Downstairs.” “Great! Let’s get started!” I agreed confidently. “Wonderful! Glad you could see it my way. I bet you’ll be an excellent teacher.” Wait, what? Oh, right. She wants lessons. …oh. I sat on the bench while Rarity sat next to me on a chair she’d pulled up. I fiddled aimlessly with the keys, never really pressing one down. When I did, it was too soft too hear. I looked back up at her. She was staring at me with a blank face. Matching with my own look, I went back to the keys and repeated my process for a few moments. I occasionally did hit a chord loud enough to be heard, favoring the higher, lighter notes. Rarity shifted in her seat, drawing my attention. Glancing at her, I saw she still had that same, unreadable expression. I went back to the piano again. “Rainbow?” she started softly. “Yeah?” “Are we going to get started?” “Uh… we already have. This is just… showing you how to push down they keys in the right way?” She raised an eyebrow. “I already know how to do that. I’m not entirely new to playing, remember? Beside, how many ways are there to push down a key?” Perfect! I thought. “Well,” I started, doing my best Twilight impression, “You can simply push down the keys but there’s a whole spectrum of ways to push down the keys. Look at this.” I pushed down a key then quickly popped my hoof off of it while pushing forwards as well. “Hear that? It was softer than it normally would have been because of how I came off.” “Oh,” she said, her eyes widening, “I didn’t even notice. Would you mind doing that again?” I did so, a smirk coming on my face. “Yes, I think I see what you mean,” she said, smiling confidently. I held back a laugh. I completely got her. And the best part was that I wasn’t even lying about the soft part. “Alright,” I said, “That’s some pretty advanced stuff though. I know I make it look easy but it takes months to get perfect. Maybe a year. I think we should start with something simpler.” She nodded, “You’re the expert.” “That I am! Now then…” I racked my brain around trying to find something. What did I first learn? Ugh, I can’t remember. “You said you’ve already played so you already know the basics right? Like the seven white keys from A to G are an octave, then repeats at A again? And the black keys are sharps and flats?” “Yes, I’m aware.” “Well that’s not the whole story. Those rules are only true when you’re in the key of C, which only has the white keys unless a song otherwise says so. Got that?” She agreed. “There’s a bunch of different keys like that.” She looked at the piano. “I can see that.” “Not like that,” I exaggerated, “I mean keys in a key signature, not the ones on the piano. Look, you know those sharp and flat symbols that are sometimes at the front of a line of sheet music? That’s a key. It tells you which keys to use.” She looked at me confused. “Which keys to use?” “Yeah, the keys.” “So the symbols at the beginning are the keys?” “Yeah,” I agreed, then added, “Wait, no, that’s the key it’s in.” “So what are they keys then?” “Uh… which key?” “That’s what I’m asking you.” I looked her as she gave a blank, uncomprehending expression. I turned to the piano and just looked at it, trying to figure out what just happened. In a moment I subconsciously pressed down a chord too softy to be heard. “I’m sorry darling, but I’m afraid you lost me. I just used the symbols at the beginning to tell me what to and to not use. I didn’t pay attention to anything special about them.” “It’s fine,” I dismissed. Jeez, teaching’s a lot of work! “Let’s start with this,” I said, “See this key?” I indicated Middle C, the C in the middle of the keyboard (duh). “When you start here, every white key is part of its key.” “Key?” Not again. “I’m just going to call it scale. The keys are the piano keys and scales are this.” I ran up the keyboard, hitting every white key for a short distance before bringing it back down. “A set of keys.” She thought for a moment. “I get it now.” “Great. So… scales…” I paused, trying to figure out where I was going. “So if I go to another key to for a scale, it changes which keys are in the scale. Like, if I go down one to B, the scale now has some black keys.” I went up and down that one for example. “Alright. What’s the purpose for them?” “Huh?” “Why are there different scales?” “Um… because they sound different?” “…Right,” she said simply. “Okay, so there’s also some scales that break that rule. They have extra keys or some are missing. Like the chromatic scale for instance.” “Chromatic scale?” she asked innocently. “Yeah, it has every key, white and black in it… Why are you smiling like that?” She suppressed her smile. “Oh, nothing dear.” “Really? Because people always gave me that look whenever I said chromatic scale,” I deadpanned. “How odd,” she dismissed. “Right… Well, I think that wraps up this lesson.” “What? But we just started.” “And I gave you plenty to think about. Besides, I think I hear the sky calling.” “Rainbow-” “Shh, listen,” I changed my voice, “Rainbow… come fly…” She gave me a flat stare. “Fine. Just… practice what I went over or something.” She kept her stare a moment longer before relenting. “Very well, Rainbow. I suppose you need a break after helping me earlier anyways-” And just like that I was three hundred light years away! Or something like that. I didn’t hear much of what she said after I jetted out the window, something about not using the window, I think. Eh, too late now. As I settled on a nice, fluffy cloud I thought about what I had just gotten myself into. I liked what Rarity had said but I knew enough about real life to know that wasn’t actually a song away. Though it was nice to think that. Maybe I could be a musician as a side thing. But as much as I hated to admit it, there were plenty that were better than me at it. I would need to get started somewhere. Hmm… I wonder if Twilight could help with that. She has a book on everything. I’ll ask her later. Right now, though, I just wanted to relax and pretend I didn’t have to awkwardly teach my friend for Celestia-knows how long.
I didn't ask for this.I love the thrill of flight. And that’s a lot coming from someone like me who thinks love is just a bunch of mushy nonsense. To feel the rush of air as I surpass speeds everyone said was impossible; that’s awesome. Seeing the ground go by in a blur of color and knowing that from anypony on the ground I’m just as quick is the best. I’d even say it’s what I live for! Heh, just look at my cutie mark. I got it when I broke the sound barrier, something nopony else has ever done I might add. But that’s all just another day in the life of Rainbow Dash. So now you can imagine the unbearable pain I was going through at the hooves of my so-called friend. I was trapped, practically strapped down by fabric, in a hellish world called a boutique and being held hostage by a torturess by the name of Rarity. She claimed to be taking “quick and easy” measurements for her clothing for pegasi but every answer to “Are we done yet?” just lead to another five minutes of agony until I managed to choke out the question again from under the clothing she insisted wasn’t too tight. Just form-fitting, she said. If that wasn’t bad enough, she decided to conveniently place me right by the upstairs window, knowing full well I’d be thinking about jetting out of there and returning to the free skies where I belonged. So you can’t really blame me when I actually did that on a break I declared myself. She looked a little annoyed when I got back half an hour later, but hey, she’s always working and could use a rest. At least I was kind enough to wait until she got the (ugh) dress off of me. Why did I even offer to help again? Oh, right. It’s because I’m a nice friend. Anyways, we were on another break some time too long after the last one, this time one she declared. She left off to some other room for some reason. I think it was about powdering her nose but that doesn’t make much sense. Why would you put a bunch of itchy, sneezy stuff on your nose? I don’t know. I was left to myself for the time being but I didn’t have anything to do. Something told me flying off wouldn’t be as appreciated this time so I decided to stay put. To the house, at least. I left the room I was in just for the sake of some new scenery. I glided down the stairs, quite literally, and made my way to the living area. Maybe I could grab a snack, I was thinking when, I saw the piano. Has she always had a piano? was my first thought. She would definitely be the type to have one just for decoration. All the big, fancy mansions seemed to have one. This definitely wasn’t a mansion by anyone’s standards but Rarity was the type to make the most out of what you have. That’s why she’s a designer. The piano sat there in its own grandness and was colored a stark, shiny black, as they always seem to be. Seeing it was a bit odd to be honest. Sure, I’d seen some recently at events like the Gala a while back, but this one was just being here without any sort of purpose. There wasn’t any pianist playing a melody. It was like it just came in one day and plopped itself down, having had enough of the snobbish crowds in Canterlot. I just stared at it for a moment. It brought back some memories I hadn’t thought of in a long time. Years, in fact. Maybe it was the sheer randomness or some weird sense of nostalgia but I decided “Eh, Why not?” and took a seat at the stool. Just real quick, I assured myself. Placing my front hooves on the keys and my others in position for the pedals at the base of the instrument, I found a familiar, old position that started a tune. I hadn’t played this in a long time but that only had so much on hours and hours of muscle memory. Starting on a chord of notes B accompanied by the two same keys an octave lower, I hit each note of the chord individually going upwards before jumping up to notes higher than the original starting point. The melody repeated a pattern similar to this a few times, changing the arrangement of notes as it went on, before shifting into a new progression brought together by the pedal that held the note longer when I let go of the actual key. I’m sure it sounded nice but it wasn’t the style of music I like, not counting the lack of electric guitars. It was too slow, which tended to be something I never liked. It picked up later, but that took about a minute or two to get to. The fact that I actually did get to it probably should have told me how long it had actually been, but I didn’t notice. What can I say? I was concentrating. “Why Rainbow, that is simply marvelous!” she said from behind me, causing me to end the song abruptly with an awful clash of sounds. I’ll admit I jumped a bit from the random voice out of nowhere but I definitely wasn’t scared. I was only caught off guard. You think I’d be used to that with how much I hang out with Pinkie. I whipped around. “Rarity!” She either didn’t hear or didn’t care for my tone. “I had no idea you were so gifted in such a skillful talent.” “I’m not-” wait, what? “What do you mean skillful talent? Are you saying flying isn’t skillful?” She backpedaled, “Oh no, never! I was just referring to…” She raised a hoof to her chin as she thought of an unskillful word. “High class? Or cultured?” I deadpanned. “Yes,” she stated with a completely straight face, avoiding answering either question. “Yeah, well… I am. You know those stories of parents forcing their foals to learn an instrument while telling them ‘it’s a good thing to learn’ or ‘you’ll appreciate it when you’re older’? Yeah.” “It sounds like you’ve put some thought into this.” “I guess so.” “By that tone of voice, I can assume you have yet to appreciate it as you’ve gotten older?” she asked, raising an eyebrow. I raised my own eyebrow. I didn’t like the way she said that. “Yeeeeah,” I drew out suspiciously. “May I ask why?” she asked lightly. “Because it’s boring! And slow and time consuming and I’d rather be flying,” I spilled out. Odd, I could’ve sworn that felt like I’d said that before. Déjà vu. “But Rainbow, dear, surely you must understand the instrument if you’ve played as much as you implied.” Oh boy. “The musical process may be slow but the reward is much greater.” I groaned internally. “I, myself, have actually played piano a bit in my youth but never to a serious extent. I could only dream of having your level of skill.” Her eyes widened. I knew exactly where this was heading. She gasped. “Idea!” her sing-song voice rang out, “I know! Why don’t we play together? You could even teach me a thing or two. We can’t let that musical talent go to waste.” I blinked. Okay, not what I was expecting. I was expecting her to ask me to play more, like in front of our friends or something. No, this was much worse. Me playing is one thing. Teaching it would be awful. And teaching it to Rarity of all ponies would be horrible! Er, no offense to her. She’s just a little… uptight at times. I looked into her eyes which were happily smiling at me with blatant giddiness. Great, just guilt me into it, why don’t ya? “Um, I’d… love to? But I can’t really do that right now because of,” I waved my hoof, trying to think an excuse, “I’m busy.” Really? “Oh, I know that already, Rainbow,” she said. “Huh?” “We have to get back to dress making!” “Huh.”
I asked her for it.“Twilight? Twilight?!” I yelled into the halls of the giant castle.“You here?” A flash and a poping sound came from my left, followed by, “Right here, Rainbow. Nice of you to stop by.” “Good to see you, too,” I said, turning to Twilight, “How’s your personal palace coming along?” “It’s not a palace,” she denied in complete denial, “It’s just a simple, small castle.” “Sure, sure. So how is it?” She brightened up. “Quite well, actually. I just finished the library section; though, I’ll need to restock it quite a bit. Not much survived the old tree house.” “Wait, library?” “That’s right,” she answered, smiling, “Ponyville needed a new library, and I have all this free space, so…” I chuckled, “You’re such an egghead…” She rolled her eyes. “What brings you around? Need something?” “Need something?” I exclaimed dramatically, “What? Can’t I just hang out with my friend without needing something?” She smiled. “Aw, how thoughtful of you. Just in time to help me plan out the day-to-day, hour-to-hour schedule for the upcoming Winter Wrap Up, too! I’ve already begun organizing each individual role for each individual resident, but I could always use some help.” I stared at her blankly, my smile slowly dropping into a mortified frown at each word. “What?” she said, noticing my expression, or lack of it, “Don’t tell me you were just pulling my leg.” “Uh… no? I mean no! Of course not! I was just thinking of something. I’d… love,” I could barely say it, “…to help out.” Curse the Element of Loyalty! “Great!” she said, “Follow me. We can get started on assessing who can do what based on reviews of their past performances. Ooh, this is going to be so much fun!” I followed, my mind half-way to going into shock. First, Rarity, yesterday, now this?! Why do I have to be such a good friend? “Rainbow? Rainbow? You there?” a distant voice called out to me. Heh, my fuzzy mind said to me, I said the same thing earlier. Shaking my head, I groggily focused my blurry vision to see the befuddled face of Twilight staring at me. “Huh…?” I said drowsily, “What’s…?” “You were really out of it,” she said, “You were staring off into space. Right as I was getting into step twenty-six, too.” My eyes shot open. “I went through two-hundred and sixty-two steps?!” She looked at me, confused for a moment, before realization came to her. “No, just twenty-six. I said too as in ‘in addition to.’ Not the numerical value.” “I went through twenty-six steps?!” She looked at me, unamused. “Actually, I went through twenty-six. You just agreed with whatever I said.” “Huh, I don’t remember any of that.” She shrugged, “Well anyways, now that you’re… back, so to speak, we can get started again.” She magicked some wordy, picture-less papers in front of me. “Uh…” “Now then, I would recommend putting Ditzy Doo on a ground transportation team. She’s not good with… heavier objects.” She shuddered. “What do you think?” “I… sure?” “Glad you could see it my way. Next we have-” “Twilight?” I interrupted, “Remember when you asked if I needed something? Well, I kind of need something.” She looked at me funny. “Okay…” she drew out, “What is it?” “I need to know where to get started on a music career.” Okay, forget her looking at me funny earlier. The look she was giving me now was a really funny look. “Did you say music career?” “Yeah,” I admitted, a bit sheepish for some reason. It’s not that weird is it? I think her look gave me the answer. “As in… you having a music career?” “Yeah.” “You want to have a music career?” “More like a side thing but yeah.” “…Are you feeling alright?” “What? I’m fine. Almost died of boredom twice the past two days, but I’m fine.” She stared at me before lighting her horn. In a moment, a purple wave of magic emitted from it and scanned the length of my body. “Uh, what are you doing?” I asked uncomfortably. “Checking if you’re a changeling…” Her horn cut its light show. “…And you’re not. Well, I can’t wait to hear this story.” I shot her a suspicious look but went along with it, telling her of what happened yesterday. Afterwards, she looked at me, surprise and shock crossing her features. “Wow…” she managed, “I just… I’m impressed.” I smirked. “Yeah, I know. I’m a great athlete and a musical protégé.” “No, not that,” she said, “You actually got into a dress willingly. That’s simply… amazing!” I didn’t smirk this time. “Yeah, I know. So can you help me?” “You’d have to ask Rarity if you want any more dresses.” “No! Forget the dresses. I’m talking about the music thing.” “Oh, that,” she said, much less excitedly, “Yeah, I can help you look into that.” She looked at all the paperwork around her. “Though, we still have a lot to do and I know you wanted to help-” “Actually Twi,” I ceded, “I didn’t really want to do this. At all.” The last bit came out almost pleadingly. “Eh, I figured as much,” she said, “I’ll just have Spike help me.” “Darn it, Rainbow!” a baby dragon’s voice echoed from the castle halls. “…Wait. If you knew I didn’t want to then why did you drag me up here?” “Because you offered,” she said slyly. “…” “Anyways, a music career has different paths depending on what kind of position you want to fill. A composer, a producer, a performer-” “That one! I want to perform.” “Alright,” she said, “I figured you would like that one. I’d have to look into it more, but I imagine it’s not unlike what you’ve been doing for the Wonderbolts.” “What? Do I need to play at high speeds in midair? I’m sure I could pull it off, but I don’t think finding a piano for that would be easy.” “As interesting as that would be, no. I mean you should start off by performing at smaller venues that will take you then gradually move up as you gain a reputation. You’ve been doing that in your flying career by competing in the Young Flier’s Competition and attending the Academy.” “Okay, I get it. So where would I start?” She shrugged. “Anywhere. Perhaps a public area like a café looking for someone to perform live music. It could earn you a few bits along with allowing word of mouth to promote you. You’re already pretty well-known around here so the latter would probably spread fast.” “Great! Thanks for the help!” I said jumping up. I looked around the room. “Looking for something?” she asked. “Yeah… Is there a window nearby?” She gave me a flat look. “Use the door,” she deadpanned. “Thanks again!” I called as I flew out the room, accidentally sending her papers flying. Eh, my bad. Anyways, time to put step twenty-six, er, two into action. This is going to be awesome!
They're asking for it."Glad you all could make it!" I declared to the mass of screaming fans in front of me. They, all five of them, looked back with various expressions of interest and curiosity. Well, except for one. She was as excited as always. So in a way, she made it a screaming crowd. "Rainbow?" Applejack asked, looking at me unamused, "Just why have ya dragged us all out to a piano bar?" I grinned as I took a glance behind me at the place, looking out from the round table we all sat at. It wasn't anything too special, just a small place in town, but I have to admit, it had a good atmosphere. It was situated right in the spot between shady and lively. As I turned back to them, I caught sight of Rarity and Twilight sharing a knowing look. "That's right," I addressed, causing them to look back as if they were caught with a hoof in the cookie jar, "You were all brought here for that." “What now?" Applejack asked, "You told them but ya didn't tell the rest of us?" "Eh, sort of. I needed Twilight's help setting this up and Rarity was just..." My hoof made a swirling motion as I thought of an answer. I had a feeling saying "horning in" wouldn't have been appreciated. "...Being Rarity," I finished. "Dear," she said flatly as she gave me a raised-eyebrow look, "May I ask what you mean by that?" I matched her fake accent (It is fake, right? Who actually talks like that?). "No darling, you may not ask." Her lip curled into an expression that asked, "Really?" Call me crazy, but I'm pretty sure that it also had an accent. "Can ya just tell us why we're here?" Applejack deadpanned. "You bet!" I replied. Clearing my throat, I announced, "Ladies and..." I looked at the group. "...Applejack." I held back a smirk as I heard her indignant snort. "I have gathered you all here today to witness the most amazing feats ever known to ponykind—" "Trixie already said that." Pinkie piped in. "What?" I cried, "But I spent all of last night coming up with them!" "I liked them..." Fluttershy commented, "They sounded... dramatic." Rarity asked to her, "Weren't you someplace else when Trixie was talking like that on her first visit?" She blinked. "Oh." "Anyways," I said gaining their attention again, "I brought you all here for a truly awe-inspiring, amazing, simply awesome—" "Just get to the point, Rainbow," Applejack said. I grinned at her. "Oh, but you won't be so smug when you see what I'm offering. You better hold onto that hat of yours because it'll just come flying off—" She glared at me. I smirked back, eyes half-lidded in my own teasing sense of humor. What can I say? She keeps walking into it. "You know, Applejack," Twilight spoke, "The more you push her, the more she's going to stall." Hey gaze traveled from mine to Twilight's, then back to mine. She narrowed her gaze as she ceded. "Fine." I held back a chuckle. "I win," I mouthed silently to her. Her eyes widened and nostrils flared; she nearly stamped her hoof but set it down quietly, minding the business around here. She opened her mouth to say something, and I widened my smile to match. Her mouth hung silently for a moment before she slowly closed it, her eyes drilling into me. Well, mostly. If they can't kill, they can't drill. That worked well, I thought, taking a moment to take in the sweet stench of victory. "Alright," I said, "I guess I'll tell you since you've been oh-so patient with me." I took in a deep breath, letting my head follow the exhale. "I brought you all here to listen to my first ever concert." Three out of five sets of eyes widened. Scratch that, two out of five. The one-pony crowd was already like that. "Oh, wow!" the one-pony crowd known, also known as Pinkie, said, "I didn't know you played an instrument. Is it a harmonica? Drum? Organ? 'Cause I play all of them!" I glanced at the piano across the room. "Yes," I answered. "Hold it," Applejack said, "Ya'll are tellin' me the self-proclaimed fastest athlete in Equestria can sit down and play one of them 'classical' instruments." "Eeyup." Applejack turned to Twilight. "Is she a changelin'?" She shook her head. "No. I already checked." "Rainbow? Care to explain?" I nodded. "Long story short, I was put through the torturous game of being forced to take lessons as a foal. But thanks to Rarity, I've done a complete three-sixty." For some reason, Twilight opened her mouth to say something, but she just shook her head. "I'm going to give this a real shot." "More like a shot in the dark," she commented. It was my turn to roll my eyes. "More like a light in the dark. You just haven't heard me play. Once this guy—" I pointed to the pony currently playing some low-key tune, "—is done, they're going to call me up." "I assume you'll be playing out of your repertoire?" Rarity prompted. "Heh... no," I admitted, "I can barely remember how any of them went. I'll be going off of sheets." Slamming my hoof to the table, I declared, "But you better bet it'll be just as awesome! I even brought a second tip jar for when the first when gets filled." I pulled the glass container out just to prove my very valid point. "Dear Celestia..." Applejack muttered to my very valid point. "Oh, hey!" I said, "I have an idea! Why don't you all just tip me now and save yourselves the trouble of doing it later?" None of them moved. Well, that's what I get for being considerate, eh? "Rainbow..." Rarity started, her voice sounding hesitant, "I'm not sure you're seeing this right." “Huh?" I asked. Nothing was fuzzy to me. In fact, I'd say the reception was better than ever. "When I convinced you to try this out, I—" Whatever she was going to say was cut off as the barkeep announced over the mic, "And that was Blues performing... well, the blues. Next up, we have..." He paused to look at the paper he held. I recognized the sheet—it was the one I wrote on. My turn! "Next we have 'Spectrum' performing a medley of 'awesome beats.'" "I think we know who that is," Pinkie chimed in a sing-song voice. "Indeed," Twilight agreed, "But why did he call you 'Spectrum'?" I waved a hoof in dismissal. "I figured that if I was going to be famous, I'd need a cool stage name to match. Not that my real name isn't cool, of course." She grimaced slightly. "Not that that's a bad name... but why in Equestria did you think it was a good name?" "I like it, and it fits me, what with my mane and all. Besides, it was between 'Spectrum' and 'Spectrumare,' and the first one was better." I started pulling out the sheets from my bag as I talked. "Spectrumare..." she repeated morosely, "That sounds like a name a superhero would have..." "Thanks!" I replied. Her head hit the table. "Well, enjoy the show, girls. Sit back, order a cider, and listen to music." As fun as talking with them was, it was show time. Everything I needed clutched tightly in my grasp, I made a brisk trot to the center stage. Despite being called a piano bar, the place was more of an open mic kind of place. If you could do something, musical or not, then you were welcome to perform. Placing my tip jars in position, I bounded up to the stool with a flap of my wings. Of course, I figured, being called a piano bar would make it known for piano performances. I set out the sheet arrangement for my first song then took a look out to the demure crowd. My friends were easily the most colorful of the bunch, figuratively and literally, and were watching with mixtures of interest. The rest of the audience were random ponies, some I've seen around town, some not, along with fellow performers like that Blues guy who was currently taking his seat. Everyone else watched expectantly. I leaned towards the microphone situated just a bit above the keys as to not interfere and said, "Hellooo everypony!” Someone coughed in applause. “As you all heard, I’m Spectrum, and I’ll be the one that’s going to be spending the rest of the night in jail. ‘Why?’ you may ask. Because I’m going to be stealing the show!” Nailed it. “Without further ado, I present to you the best, the awesome, the radical—” “Get on with it,” some heckler decided to call out. I gave him a withering glare before turning promptly back to the instrument. I couldn’t help but smile, though. Nothing is better than proving a skeptic of your skill wrong. “Heh,” I muttered to myself, away from the mic, “On with the show.” I spread out my sheet music across the stand for the best view. “And here… we… go!” I struck a powerful minor chord high on the keyboard, its chime resonating across the room as a deep bass note accented the ominous feel. I smiled. Perfect. My hoof trekked down across the keyboard, instantly hitting a much lower series of notes that ascended into a buff riff of tension-building. I let it sit for only a moment, before bursting into a mid-tempo rocker. To be honest, I’m not sure what the song was, exactly, but I guess the best way to describe it would be a “bluesy, fast-paced waltz.” Even a bit classical at a few bits. Not that it mattered, really. It was close enough to rock for my tastes. Reaching a point where I had enough muscle memory to guide me, I took a look out to the crowd. Everyone was watching, or listening, rather, with interest, some actually wearing surprise. To my stifled laughter, one of them happened to be an orange coated friend of mine. As I ran through the end of the song, winding down from a dramatic climax, if I do say so myself, the sounds of applause filled the room. “Thank you, yes, thank you!” I said through the mic. Ah, I do love the sound of cheering fans. I basked in it for a moment more before breaking away to the next song. I had just four songs total, due in part to the short amount of time I had to prepare, but they were all good. Though, I did have to choose one I wasn’t a big fan of, which is what I prepared to start now. “This next song is a more elaborate piece, featuring the chromatic scale–” A wild chuckle flew through the crowd. I raised an eyebrow. “Okay, then…” I muttered before turning back to the piano. No time to ponder a joke everyone else suddenly heard. I had a song to perform. Why didn’t I like this one? Simple question, simple answer. Too slow! But people always seemed to like it so, hey, whatever works. I trailed a simple chord progression across the keys, picking out a warming melody with a more active bass filling in gaps. Not really feeling it, I just floated aimlessly through the song, that is, until one certain pony from earlier decided to flap his mouth again. “Too slow,” he commented. Even if I agreed, I wasn’t taking that. The piano came screeching to a halt, not that it was going fast to begin with, an unusual silence taking its place. I could feel everyone’s stares on me; I had just cut off in the middle of the song. I ignored them, however, in favor of the stallion that had interrupted. I turned to him, a wicked grin plastering my face. “No one,” I said, “Calls me slow.” I didn’t bother seeing his reaction. I knew I was right. With a simple flick of my hooves, the piano flew into an electrifying race, striking chords being played in rapid succession as the bass kept up the rhythm. Just as suddenly, the roles reversed as the melody turned into a series of descending and ascending notes before exploding into a mad dash down the keyboard. Now that! …is music. In simpler words: awesome.
She's asking for it! You hear me?!“Say it.” “No.” “Say it!” “Not happenin’!” “You don’t understand, Applejack. I need to hear this.” The farm mare glared at me, sending me an expression that could only ask, “Really?” She shook her head, then took a sip of her cider. “Ah’m not sayin’ nothin’. ‘Specially not to the likes of you.” She wants to play this game? Heh, I invented this game. “What’s this?” I exclaimed, tossing my hooves in the air, “Good old Honest Applejack is refusing to admit the truth? Just what has this world come—” “That ain’t gonna work, Rainbow,” she deadpanned, taking another swig from her mug. “Oh, don’t deny you weren’t impressed. I saw that look on your face. Priceless, by the way.” “Ah ain’t admittin’ nothin’! I was just caught off guard, is all.” Rolling my eyes, I said, “Because you were so amazed by my awesomeness. I would’ve thought you would be used to it by now, but hey, I guess I’m just in a league all my own.” “The only thing here in a league its own,” she shot back, “is the size of your ego.” “I call it a bit of healthy pride.” “Keep tellin’ yourself that,” she dismissed before leaning back into her seat, crossing her arms out in front of her. I smirked at her; I knew exactly what that meant: her becoming stubborn to the point beyond reason. I guarantee those empty mugs of cider and a half were helping. I leaned back into my own chair, knowing I’d get nothing more out of her but her unshakable denial. Besides, she wouldn’t be hearing the end of this for a long time. “So how’d I sound? Epic, huh?” I asked, waving my hoof in the air, gesturing to them all. “You bet, ‘Spectrum,’” Pinkie said, winking at me. “It was… nice,” Fluttershy said. “Aw, thanks, Shy,” I replied, “That means a lot coming from you.” …That wasn’t sarcasm, by the way. I turned my attention back up as Twilight cleared her throat. “Looks like Rarity wasn’t exaggerating when she said you were skilled. And after such a long hiatus since last time? I’m impressed,” she said, getting an affirming nod form the designer, “Say, did you make much?” My brow furrowed. “Make what? That music? I didn’t write it.” “No,” she replied, shaking her head, “Did you make any bits? I’d be surprised if you didn’t.” “Oh, that! Heh, I…” Reaching down, I felt for the two jars down by my saddlebag—or would have, if there wasn’t empty space where they should’ve been. “Uh…” I muttered, my eyed widening. “You forgot them, didn’t ya?” Applejack deadpanned. My mouth opened to shoot back a burning reply—trust me, it would’ve been scalding—but the sound of lost, helpless bits going to waste overruled all other priorities. “Back-in-a-flash!” I rushed out, bolting off from the chair and taking a few napkins and menus and whatever-elses with me. Ignoring the frustrated protests emanating from the other bar goers, I set down next to the stage and breathed a sigh of relief as the jars came into sight, which promptly turned into a cry of, “Only one jar got anything?” Hearing the unmistakable sound of someone scoffing, I snapped my head in its direction, meeting the sight of some rust-coated stallion raising an eyebrow at me. “What? Something to say?” I challenged, my narrowed gaze daring him to talk back. Under my harsh, unrelenting gaze, he merely rolled his eyes. “This is a small business in a small town, not the halls of Canterlot castle. What were you expecting? Both jars to be overflowing?” My eyes darted down to the jars for just a tad moment too long. His hoof met his face. “No one even knows who you are, Spectrum.” “Hey, hey, everyone knows me. I’m Rainbow Dash, fastest flier in Equestria.” “That’s true, but—” I barely noticed the smug smile on my face; apparently he did. “But!” he continued, “No one knows who Spectrum is.” This time, I did notice my facial expression. It was confusion. “That doesn’t make any sense. I’m Rainbow Dash and Spectrum, so ponies know who the latter is.” He shook his head, answering my further bewildered expression by saying, “How about this? You know who Blues is?” “The guy that performed before me?” “Yeah, but have you heard of him before that?” “Mm…” I mmed, rubbing my chin, “I think so… Doesn’t he perform whenever Ponyville is having some event going on? Like a festival?” “Right. Now, answer me this: do you know who Noteworthy is?” “…Nope. Never heard of him.” Pointing his hoof out toward Blues sitting at another table, he said, “What if I told you that Blues and Noteworthy are the same pony? See what I’m getting at?” I looked out to the pony in question. Blues and Noteworthy? I thought, But I only knew him by one name, so— “Hey, Dashie! You coming?” “Hold your horses! Just need a second,” I called back to Pinkie. Turning back to the stallion, I said, “I think I see what you mean.” He smirked, saying, “Good. Now, if you don’t mind…” He gestured back to his table. “Sure thing,” I said, getting the hint, “Thanks.” “Mmhm.” With a nod, I made a trot back to my friends, taking a seat and laying my jars—er, jar—of bits. Of course, that prompted everyone to take a look at the glass container, the empty glass container, and then to me. One certain stentson wearing farmer raised an eyebrow then opened her mouth to speak. “Don’t say a word,” I monotoned. Letting out a victorious “hmph” (which totally wasn’t a victory), she kept a smirk on me as she went for another drink. I moved to shoot her a suspicious gaze, but Pinkie pulled me away—quite literally. “What were you talking about with Rustburrow?” she asked, her foreleg interlocking into mine as I was yanked along next to her, chair and all. “Eh…” Tugging my stolen limb back to the safety of myself, I asked, “Rustburrow? You know him?” She nodded, her puffy cotton candy of a mane bouncing along for the ride. “Why wouldn’t I? I know everyone in Ponyville. Heck, his son’s birthday party a few years back is one of my favorites.” “Really? Why’s that?” I asked, actually interested. For a pony who throws parties twenty-four/seven, whether there be an occasion or not, it must have been pretty good. “You don’t remember it?” she gasped, “But you ended up being the star of the entire celebration!” “I was? Why’s that?” Now, I was really interested. “You were helping me keep everything skipping along jollily and were put in charge of the piñata when suddenly bam! The colt in the blindfold whacks right between the eyes!” My face instinctively flinched at the words. “Huh. I don’t remember that at all.” “Any idea why?” she asked, her tone rising on every word as she looked at me expectantly. I shook my head. “Beats me.” For the second time within a few minutes, everyone stared at me in silence, the exception being one party pony who just started giggling. I blinked. “…So…” Rarity cleared her throat. “Rustburrow?” “Oh, right. He told me about how Blues is well known, but Noteworthy isn’t… by ponies other than Pinkie.” “Aw…” she moaned, slowly lowering her hoof back down. “Noteworthy…” Twilight said, setting her chin down on her hoof, “Can’t say I’ve heard of him.” “Exactly.” She cocked her head. “Well, what did he mean by that?” “His persona is more notable than his actual identity, if I’m understanding this right. The Rusty guy was saying Rainbow Dash is like that—more notable than Spectrum.” “Ah, I understand,” Twilight responded, “I’ve heard of that before. It’s actually more common than you think. Remember that Nightmare Night awhile back? Princess Luna was seen as Nightmare Moon rather than herself to an extent.” “Yeah, I remember her. I remember her zapping my flank with a lightning bolt.” “Ya’ll had it comin’.” “Quiet you! Go back to your cider!” She shrugged, not finding the suggestion half bad. “Anyways…” I said, “Yeah. I’m more famous than myself. Who would’ve thought?” “Um… Wouldn’t that be a good thing?” Fluttershy added, “Since ponies already know you, wouldn’t that make getting your name out easier?” “Not necessarily,” Twilight interjected, drawing a look of surprise from Fluttershy and I, “Ponies may know you, but that’s not why they know you. You’re known for flying high and breaking everyone’s windows whenever you go supersonic, not sitting down and playing an instrument. The fact that those are about as diametrically opposed as can be just makes it worse.” Yeah, still not getting it. “So… how’s that bad thing again? I’m sure I can find ways to break windows with a piano if that’s the problem.” She twiddled her hoof aimlessly in the air as she thought. “Hm, let’s put it this way. Say you went to a Wonderbolts show, but instead of performing aerobatics and the stunts that made them famous, they sat down and performed Beethoofen’s Fifth Symphony. What would you think of that?” “I’d still love it.” She rolled her eyes. “Of course you would. But how do you think the less…” “Obsessed?” Applejack, helpful as ever, offered. I rolled my eyes. “You know, you really turn into a wise pony when you’re drunk.” “Ah’m always drunk, and Ah’m not wise!” Finally, the staring was on someone else for a change, and it took her all of five seconds to figure out why. “…Oh! A-Ah mean the other way around! Ah’m always wise… and…” “Alright,” I declared, snatching her mug away from her, “This apple has had too much cider.” Defeated, she sat back in her chair, hat pulled low and grumbling inaudibly to herself. “Heh…” I turned back to Twilight. “Now, what were we saying?” “How would someone other than you react to the Wonderbolts playing instruments instead of performing an airshow?” “Oh, yeah,” I replied, recalling her words, “Mm… I’d say there would be a lot of confusion over what’s going on.” She nodded, saying, “Exactly. I believe this is what Rustburrow was trying to tell you. Everyone knows you as the flier pegasus, not the musical pegasus.” With that, my lips curled into a disappointed frown, my ears folding backwards. “So that’s it? I can’t be a pianist and a flier? I have to choose one or the other.” “Not so fast.” Twilight reacted, perking my attention again, “As much as you’d hate to admit it, you’re not in the Wonderbolts yet. I’d say it’s not too late to build up a reputation as a musician.” “Really? How would I do that?” “I’d say to—” “Ooh! Ooh! Can I answer this one?” Pinkie interrupted. The Princess of Librarians shrugged, then gestured for her to go ahead. “Okie-dokie-lokie!” She turned to me, beaming in her own brilliance. “Do it in the traditional Dashie style: with a bang!” Applejack, surprisingly, actually spoke up again from the realm of blurred senses. “Good idea,” she said, “Rainbow’s great at banging.” If one can hear five sets of eyes widening simultaneously, it would’ve been an orchestra right then and there. Four of said pairs promptly reintroduced me to the house of awkward, silent staring for the third and hopefully final. I shook myself back to my senses before saying, “I have no idea what she’s talking about.” “Oh, what’s the matter, Dashie?” Applejack taunted, much to my growing chagrin, “There’s no need to be embarrassed. We all have our quirks… Heh, you certainly do.” “Gah! I-I…” Stop sputtering and defend yourself! “You’re lying,” I shot back, the horrible choice of words coming out faster than my hoof could cover my mouth. She smirked an evil, knowing grin. I had just made it so easy for her! “Now, now,” she said, “We all know Ah’m good old Honest Applejack, remember? Ah don’t lie.” I recoiled backward, the words hitting me like a train. A smug, drunk, stentson wearin’ train. “Uh… heh… she has a…” I heard Twilight say, which promptly earned her a glare that commanded, “Stay out of this.” Needless to say, she decided to comply. Staring into those cocky eyes of hers, I could practically feel the pure evil coming from her. She’s totally doing this on purpose, using her own drunkenness to get back at me. Heck, the fact that she’s taking herself down with me just makes her look more believable—in other words, she sinking the boat to get the captain. “You’re making this up,” I challenged, “Just because you were the Element of Honesty doesn’t mean you can’t lie.” I crossed my forelimbs, doing my best haughty impression. “But enough of this. I have the much more important deal of my own future in music to plan out.” She met my gaze for one moment, her eyes half lidded and her lips smiling widely. “Alright,” she said simply. Waving her hoof at me, she went back to her reclining position, but not before taking one last stab at me. “I win,” she mouthed. Oh, no! Teeth gritting, I sent the most withering glare I had at her. She merely ignored me, content to bask in the knowledge that anything more out of my mouth would just help her. Well fine, I decided, We’re even… for now. Grumbling, myself, I turned back to Twilight, who was finding the nearby walls quite interesting along with the rest of the gang (save for the party pony who just kept giggling to herself as always). “Pinkie suggested to get my name out there with a ba—a blast. Any suggestions?” “Uh… Put on a concert?” I shook my head. “I would, but I don’t know enough songs right now to go on for an hour straight. …Huh. I really am out of practice…” “Maybe just do that? Practice?” Rarity suggested, “At least until you feel you’re ready.” I just gave a noncommittal shrug in return. That made sense; I’ve practiced my flying enough to know just how important it is. Nonetheless, I’m a… little bit impatient… sometimes… like now, for instance. Thinking back on my flying, what did I do in that to build up my reputation? “…Wait, I know! I’ll do what I do best!” “Banging?” Pinkie suggested, trying and failing to hold back a fit of laughter with a hoof to her mouth. “Yeah! …Wait, no! No! Forget about that! I’m talking about racing, or in this case, competing. I’ll win competitions!” “That could work,” Twilight agreed, taking a sip of her own drink, before setting it back down, gagging at the taste. “You know,” she added, “Piano bars like this one often have ‘duels’ where musicians face off for the crowd.” “Really? Great! Now I just need someone to obliterate… Be right back!” Jumping out of my seat, my sight danced around the premises, searching through the plethora of ponies dining and drinking until I found the target. Smirking, I took a wing propelled bound over to him, setting down right by his side. I earned myself a curious glance, but it was his attention nonetheless. “Blues! I challenge you to a music duel. Right here. Right now.” He blinked, caught off guard for a moment, but then looked at the guys sitting at his table. He shrugged, which they promptly shrugged back to, apparently having a full conversation through gestures. Looking back at me, he said, “I’ll admit this is a bit unorthodox and sudden, but why not? I’ll tell the keep to set things up.” “Awesome! I hope you’re ready to be swept aside!” “We’ll see…” he chuckled, leaving his seat and heading to the bar. Smiling victoriously to myself, I turned to head back to my no-doubt confused group of friends. “She has no idea what she’s getting into.” My head whipped around, and I stared down the ponies at the table through a narrowed gaze. Not one of them even acknowledged me, as if they hadn’t said anything. Whatever, I thought, taking my leave once again. I’ll show them. “What did you just do?” Twilight asked as I returned. “Just challenged Blues to a duel.” “What?!” “I know, right? It’s going to start any minute.” “No, Rainbow! Why would you do that?” My brow furrowing, I replied, “Why not? You suggested a duel.” “Yes, but not like this. Don’t you realize who Blues is?” “Um… a blue pony who plays the blues?” Her hoof met her face. “Ugh… Let me put it this way: he’s been voted Ponyville’s top musician for six years and running.” “…Oops.” A pink-coated hoof wrapped around me, followed by Pinkie flashing me a confident smile. “Aw, don’t worry. What’s the worst that could happen?” Needless to say, I didn’t share in her enthusiasm. I perked my ear as a whistle flowed through the air. Tracing it to its origin, I saw the barkeep next to Blues and gesturing me over. Well, I thought, This might have been a mistake.
I'm asking her for it. Really, this time.“That was a huge mistake.” I was shaking my head as I trotted away from the piano bar, the sound of a glorious fiesta trailing just behind my ears. I’d be the first to admit that I do love the festivities of parties—the celebrating, the desserts, the Pinkie Pie—but this party! This was not one I could love, much less tolerate being in. “Aw, don’t be down, Dashie. Just what were the odds that the worst possible thing that could happen actually did happen?” Pinkie called to me, bouncing to my side on her hooves. Turning to the party pony, I replied, “‘Worst possible thing?’ You sound like Rarity. Apparently it was a lot more likely than we realized considering it actually happened! I mean, did you see the crowd?! He got every one of them to sing along.” Twilight trotted up to my other side, giving my shoulder a bump to get my attention. “To be fair, you didn’t actually perform any songs to sing along to. You were strictly instrumental.” “Ugh.” I knew she was right, but it didn’t make it any better. I had gotten my flank handed to me on a silver platter—scratch that—a blue platter. Letting out an exasperated sigh, I grumbled, “You shouldn’t be allowed to perform ‘Piano Mare’ if you’re a stallion…” “I… huff… thought… huh… you did well…” I heard Fluttershy sputter out. “Uh, you okay there?” I asked, craning my neck to see her… and Applejack draped across her. “…I think you’ve got something on your back… Here, let me help.” “Thank you!” she breathed, shifting her weight so I could get the passed out pony onto my back as well. “I didn’t think she had this much to drink,” I commented. Flashing me a sheepish grin, she said, “Oh, well, she ordered another drink… or three… when you started falling behind in the competition.” “Yeah, yeah… Hey, where’s Rarity? I would’ve thought she would help you carry her. Sorry about not doing that earlier, by the way. I didn’t notice.” “It’s fine, Dash. Don’t worry about it. As for Rarity, she left earlier. She said she was sorry she couldn’t stick around, but she needed to get back home for her sister. She was out longer than she expected to be.” “That’s fine,” I responded, only a little miffed that she missed out, but hey, I can’t blame her. “Mmhm. She also wanted me to tell you this.” Clearing her throat, she recited, “You were simply splendid, darling. Truly, I didn’t realize you were on such a high level until now. Remember, you are always welcome to come by and practice whenever you like.” “Nice Rarity impression.” A rosy tint coming to her cheeks at the praise, she said, “Thanks, I guess.” “Well, thanks for inviting us out,” Twilight piped in, “It was fun. Sorry you didn’t win the competition.” “Eh, don’t worry about it,” I dismissed, waving my hoof, “As much as I hate losing, it happened. Besides, just motivation to get better, am I right?” “That’s the spirit,” she chuckled, “I’m going to be heading home now, alright? See you around!” “Same here,” Pinkie agreed, “I thought you did fantastic! Do you two need help with Applecider over here?” “Nah, I’m good. You, Fluttershy?” “No thank you.” Turning back to Pinkie, I said, “In that case, see you all later. Thanks again for coming out!” With their own farewells, they set off, leaving me with Fluttershy and the merrily intoxicated Applejack. “Let’s hit the road?” She nodded, starting our trip to Sweet Apple Acres. The door swung open, revealing the form of Applejack’s brother stepping through. “Apple…?” he started, trailing off at the sight of in front of him—two tired, grinning pegasi with his unconscious sister draped across their backs. “…jack.” “Special delivery!” we chanted, then lasting all of two seconds before breaking into giggling. Big Mac only raised an eyebrow as he looked between us. “Eeyup…” I offered a hoof bump to Fluttershy, which she returned after having to take a moment to figure out what I was actually doing. “So… Miss Dash, Miss Fluttershy? AJ?” Big Mac prompted. “Went to a bar,” I answered, “And don’t worry about all this ‘Miss’ stuff. You’ve accidentally bucked me out of enough trees to say we’re friends, right?” “Alright, Miss Dash.” He raised his hoof toward Applejack. “Cider?” “Eeyup!” Rolling his eyes, he said, “Bring her in.” I nodded, turning to Fluttershy again. “Okay, want—” Applejack groaned in her sleep, rolling over onto her side… which wasn’t a very good idea considering it was a one-way trip to the cold, hard ground. On the bright side, she didn’t seem to mind. The three of us looked from Applejack, to each other, and then back to Applejack. “Darn…” I said, “Third time that’s happened.” “Ah’ll get here,” Big Mac said, then trotted around to push her onto his back. He turned his neck to look at us again. “Thanks for bringin’ her here.” “No problem!” “Mmhm… Well then, goodnight ya’ll?” “Goodnight. See ya later,” I answered, Fluttershy echoing something along those lines as well. As he turned away, Applejack’s slumped from in tow, a thought—or rather, a lovely little idea—came to me. “Hey, Big Mac?” I called, “When she wakes up, tell her that she’s also great it.” The sound of Fluttershy’s embarrassed squeak told me I’d done well. “Uh…” he replied, eyeing the canary-coated pegasus and her blushing, “Great at what?” “Oh, she’ll know. Trust me,” I replied, a few cackles breaking in-between my words. He put me under a suspicious gaze but shrugged. “All right,” he agreed, prompting a victorious snicker out of me. Giving a final nod, he took him and his sister inside. “Heheh, I think she’ll love that joke, eh?” “Um, uh, I… yes?” she responded, completely confident in her answer as always. “Haha... By the way, thanks for playing along with the ‘special delivery’ joke earlier. I know that’s not your usual shtick.” “Oh, don’t worry about it. It was…” “Nice?” I suggested. “Funny,” she finished. I rolled my eyes, letting out a chuckle. “Nice seeing you, Fluttershy. Thanks for coming out.” “Of course,” she said, “Anytime.” “You good walking home from here?” Getting a nod in return, I continued, “Then see you later! I’ve got to get some sleep. I’ve got things to do and things to say!” “Bye, Dash. Goodnight.” “‘Night!” I bid, before taking off and watching the canary-colored shape of Fluttershy shrink into a faded dot below me. It was the next day when I found myself at the keyboard once again. Taking up Rarity’s offer, I was using her grand, mostly because it was the only place I was able to practice. Fortunately, she didn’t mind; if anything, she seemed delighted that I was back, going on about keys and whatever else. A sneaking suspicion told me that I should be worried about that. In the meantime, I was practicing. “What was I practicing?” you’re probably asking. Well, the answer would be… everything. I was going through every routine I could think of—learning new pieces, refining old ones; doing scale runs up and down the piano’s length; and just about every mechanical skill I might ever need. By that last one, I’m talking about small yet important skills that help out in the long run, like the thing about “rolling” off the key to make it softer I told Rarity a bit ago. It was fun and all, but it really showed me just how out of practice I am. It’s a wonder I got through my pieces at the bar so smoothly! …Until the competition, that is. I’ll admit I made a mistake in challenging that guy, but I did learn from it. What he did that I didn’t was to really get the crowd involved, mostly through his singing. Hey, an instrument can only do so much on its own. I supposed I could sing, myself, but I haven’t tried doing that while playing yet, and, to be honest, I know I don’t exactly have the best singing voice. Don’t get me wrong; I can hit notes and all that, but I’m aware that my voice is a bit scratchy or rough or… boyish or whatever you want to call it. In any case, I’ll figure it out later. Heh, Twilight was right. This is just like practicing my flying for the Wonderbolts, only with my hooves doing the talking rather than my wings. Though, I knew flying would always be my one true love, and this and whatever else that comes along would be second. Well, except for my friends and family, but that was obvious, and I’m thinking too far into this. Anyways, music! Right. Honestly, I’m surprised I’ve gotten myself this far involved with it already. I could just hear my parents’ “I told you so” if they ever found out. I was pulled back into focus as my hooves played one final chord, embellishing a tune with a deep, resonating tone. I blinked and had to take a moment to comprehend just what had happened. Was I really being all thoughtful while I was playing? I wondered. Breaking into a grin, I realized yes, I had. If I can go off on a thinking tangent while in the middle of a song without messing up, then I must be doing something right. Just as long as I’m not relying on muscle memory for it. As useful as it is, it can blank on you at the worst possible moments. Well, what better way to find out than to try it again? Getting my hooves back into position, I counted down in my head… one, two, three, one, two— “How are you holding up, darling?” Rarity conveniently interrupted, stepping into the room. She propped up her forearm against the piano, leaning against it. “I do hope you’re fine. I know it can get stuffy in here.” Taking my hooves off the keys before looking at he, I said, “Nah, I’m good. Thanks.” “You sure? Need anything? Some water, perhaps?” “No thanks,” I replied, glancing back down at the keyboard. She remained frozen in her spot, and I felt her stare boring into me. “…Actually, I’ll take you up on that offer.” She beamed. “Coming right up, dear!” In a minute, she came back with a glass, which I greedily accepted. I heard her give her light, ladylike laugh as she watched me, saying, “It’s great having you here, Dash.” “Mmf?” I answered, mouth still full. “That’s right. I feel that, out of our circle of friends, we never spent much quality time together. Outside of us being with the others.” “Mmf.” “Mmhm, Rainbow. You know, I ought to be paying you for playing here. All of the customers that have arrived today have been enthralled with the music flowing in the air, especially when I told them you were playing it live.” “Mm… Heh, thanks. It’s nothing really; just me being awesome as always.” That got a roll of her eyes. “Rarity?” I heard a softer, younger voice call, “You wanted me? Where are you?” “Over here, Sweetie,” she answered before turning back to me. At seeing the raised-eyebrow look I was giving her, she elaborated. “Recall how you’ve been giving me lessons—er, lesson?” Oh… that. “Yeah?” I answered, smiling along innocently. “Well,” she said, putting far too much emphasis on the word, “I had a marvelous idea. Sweetie could learn as well. It’s very beneficial to start at such a young age, and she already has such a lovely singing voice to accompany it.” She looked off distantly for a moment, no doubt imagining fame and fortune and everything that goes with it in her sister’s future. She shook her head, pulling herself out of her trance. “Is that alright with you?” “Of course,” I chuckled, coming out more akin to nervous laughter, “…Wait, did you say sing—” “What is… it?” Sweetie trailed off as she entered the room, seeing the sight of me. “Oh, hi Rainbow Dash. What’s going on?” “Hey! Yeah, yeah, I think you’d better let your sister explain that.” Looking to Rarity, the pony in question explained, “Dash, here, is going to give you piano lessons.” Sweetie blinked, taken aback at the simple words. I couldn’t tell if it was because of the new hobby she was going to have or because I was teaching her. Furrowing her brow, she said, “Piano? Ugh, I knew that was why you got it…” “Now, Sweetie,” Rarity said, wrapping her foreleg around her, “Don’t be like that. I’m sure you’ll enjoy it. Just imagine how well it will sound with your singing voice!” “Rarity, are you planning my future for me again?” “Er...” Sweetie breathed out an exasperated sigh, as if this was a common occurrence. Knowing Rarity, it probably was. Shifting her intrigued gaze to me, she asked, “You can play piano?” “You bet!” “And you’re going to teach me?” “Yup!” Her face gave me message somewhere between “What the heck?” and “Why the heck?” Not taking her eyes off me, she asked Rarity, “Is she a—?” “No, Sweetie, she’s not a changeling. We’ve already checked.” Seeing the remaining skepticism in her features, I decided the best way to convince her would be to show her, and so I did, playing a free-flowing melody that was simple in nature yet showy enough to send the message. Finishing with a ringing chime, I glanced at Sweetie’s reaction. “Oh, wow,” she said, eyes widened in surprise, “I didn’t know you were good at stuff other than flying.” “Uh… thanks?” I replied, unable to keep from glancing at the glare Rarity was sending her sister’s way. “In any case…” Rarity started, “What do you think, Sweetie?” “I don’t have choice, do I?” Rarity smiled. “No, dear.” Shaking her head, she sighed, “Ugh, fine.” “Splendid!” her sister chimed, springing up straight, “I would love to join you today, but I still have my boutique to care for. I fear I’ve already been gone too long a time already. If you need anything, you know where I’ll be.” “Okay,” Sweetie and I both groaned. With a giggle, the designer left, practically skipping out of the room. There was a moment of silence as the filly and I watched her depart then turned to each other, neither of us wanting to make the first move; though, someone did have to lest we stare at each other for an hour straight. Thinking about it, that actually didn’t sound too bad in comparison to having to teach. “So…” I started. She continued staring at me. “Piano…!” I said, mustering some enthusiasm up. Finally, she moved, shaking her head as she said, “Can we just say you taught me? She’s always trying to get me into all these…” Her eyes rolled as she mimicked her sister’s accent. “‘Ladylike avocations.’” Tempting, I thought, But not happening. “No can do. If I’m being forced into this, then so are you.” “Then…” she said, putting her hoof to her chin to think, “Can we force Applebloom and Scootaloo into it too?” Suddenly, my vision flashed to a dystopian future of Ponyville, horrid, dissonant piano noise plaguing the air as the innocent residents wailed as they covered their ears in vain. “No!” I shrieked, bolting upright and making Sweetie jump. “Er, no… Sorry about that.” Eyeing me strangely, she only replied, “Uh… no problem.” “Heh… Alright, what say we get started?” “I guess,” she said, shrugging as her gaze shifted to the piano. I bit back the words I was going to say at seeing her… almost dejected face. I knew that face; I always would have that same one when I was her age, sitting mindlessly for hours on end at this very instrument. Oh, Celestia! I realized, I’m doing exactly what my parents did to me! I can’t do that! I couldn’t. “Ugh…” I moaned to myself. On one hoof, I’d turn into the world’s biggest hypocrite. On the other, I’d already promised Rarity. Even more, this was for Sweetie just as much for me; if not, more. My ear perked as I heard Sweetie muttering to herself, saying, “I don’t see why I have to do this. I can sing already.” Sing… Oh, right! She’s a singer! That’s what I was thinking about earlier. Then, bam! Inspiration struck me. “Idea!” I sang aloud, prompting a raised eyebrow out of Sweetie. “I know what we can do,” I told her, “Tell me, do you like singing?” Taken aback by the sudden shift in conversation, she hesitated before answering. “Uh… yes?” “Are you good at it?” I continued, not missing a beat. “I… think so? I haven’t performed for anyone except Rarity and my friends. They insist I’m great.” “Really? Then… would you be able to sing the note I play on here?” I said, gesturing to the range of keys on the piano. “I don’t know? Maybe? Why are we talking about my singing?” “Because, Sweetie, I have an idea that would not only get you out of piano lessons, but would benefit your singing!” Now visibly interested, she agreed. “Sure. Sounds like win-win to me.” “Awesome! Try… this note,” I said, pressing down on a mid-range note, close to what most ponies talk at normally. She listened to it for a moment, her face scrunching up as she tried to focus in on it. Then, taking a breath, her voice came out, quiet at first before locking into a moderate echo of the note, right on key. After a few more seconds, she stopped, looking distastefully at the keyboard. “Sorry that wasn’t so good. I haven’t warmed up… Why are you smiling like that?” True, I was smiling like an escaped convict, but I didn’t care enough to change it. “Are you kidding?” I exclaimed, “That was perfect, and I’m not even a singer.” “…Doesn’t that hurt your argument?” “Doesn’t matter,” I dismissed, waving my hoof off, “Here, can you do this note?” This time, I picked a higher one, which she promptly hit right on the head. Grinning wider, I pushed down an ever lighter one, then a low note, and even an extra high note on the scale I was sure she wouldn’t be able to pull off. And she got every single one. “That’s amazing! You’re amazing! This is perfect!” I gushed, drawing a modest blush out of her. “Thanks,” she said, “But what’s perfect. You still haven’t told me your idea.” I nodded. “Right! So, Sweetie, how would you like…” Her eyes widened in anticipation. “To be my own personal singer?” I finished, throwing up my hooves theatrically. Her reaction, actually, wasn’t as enthusiastic as I’d hoped. “You’re singer?” she repeated, “For what?” “For performances, of course,” I laughed, “You, me, and the fame of being famous.” “So… like a piano-vocal duet?” she asked. “Right!” She shrugged, running a hoof through her pinkish mane. “I don’t know…” “Huh?” I reacted, dropping into a frown, “Why not? I bet you could get your cutie mark from it!” She shot me an unamused glance. “…Not working?” “Rarity uses it daily.” “Heh… Anyways, why not? It would be awesome.” “Yeah, probably,” she admitted, sending another spark of hope through me, “But… What about Rarity? She’s expecting me to learn an instrument, not become famous.” “Oh, I see. Don’t worry about her; the reason she puts you through all that ‘ladylike avocation’ stuff is so you can become famous. Or at least successful. Have a wide range of talent for whatever you’ll ever need, ya know?” “Yeah, I know… But, I don’t know about suddenly becoming a singer with you. Just…” I nodded, putting a hoof on her shoulder. “Yeah, I did just spring that on you huh? I guess you need time to think?” Now it was her turn to nod. “Alright,” I said, “Sorry about rushing you. I can get ahead of myself, I know. Tell you what. I’ll talk to Rarity if you’re concerned about her, and you can take all the time you like.” “Okay, Rainbow Dash,” she said, darning a welcome smile again, “Sounds like a plan.” “Haha, that’s the spirit. Now, instead of a boring lesson, why don’t you go do whatever all you foals do nowadays? I’ll tell Rarity I let you go.” “Thanks!” she replied, springing to her hooves. Making headway toward the door, she called back, “See you around!” “See you! Oh, and Sweetie?” She looked back at me as I said, “I hope you don’t feel pressured by me. Only do this if you want to, okay?” Flashing me a grin, she nodded. “Okay. Bye!” “Bye!” I returned, watching her go. …Heh, I thought, this could work out well. I might have just gotten a singer, and an amazing one at that. Ponies love it when foals do stuff like this, and Sweetie’s what? Ten? I think she’ll have a blast. Though, I really do hope I didn’t put her into an uncomfortable position and all. We’re friends already, right? I mean, it’s not like I haven’t hung out with Rarity’s sister before, just now it would be just her without the Crusaders. Assuming of course, she doesn’t tell them… even though they’re her best friends that she tells everything to… and one of which probably has an unhealthy obsession with me as a sister… oh. Well, what’s the worst that could happen? They force themselves into the plan in some strange way? Maybe want to perform another rock opera? Haha… heh… …huh.
Okay, I asked for part of it. Just a part!I fell to the floor, exhausted and gasping for air. Above me, Rarity looked down at my display unamused. “Honestly Rainbow,” she said, “The theatrics are unnecessary. Dressmaking is quite an enjoyable affair if you would just allow yourself to be immersed in it. “Unnecessary theatrics?” I deadpanned, taking a nice, long look at her. She gave a quite unladylike glare before turning, putting away her supplies. “Thank you for your time Rainbow. I’m going to tidy up the room, get everything back in order. You can wait downstairs if you would like. Perhaps warm up?” she hinted. Unfortunately, I wasn’t in any condition for a guessing game. “Warm up?” I asked. “Yes, warm up. On the piano.” Oh. “Even the best musicians have to warm up.” She was serious about this. “Yeah… about that,” I started, “I kinda… don’t want to teach piano. Or play piano. Or be near a piano.” She looked at me surprised, “Why ever not? You were so good at it.” “Just because I’m good doesn’t mean I enjoy it.” “We can’t just let your talent be wasted, though.” “I’ve been wasting it for years. I think I’ll be fine,” I said, smiling, “Besides, I’m a flier. I’m going to be a Wonderbolt. Not some pianist.” She thought for a moment, then smiled. “I don’t think you see the bigger picture.” “And how’s that?” I challenged. “Just imagine this. You, a Wonderbolt-” “Easy,” I interjected, “Do it all the time.” She cleared her throat. “You a Wonderbolt… and a pianist!” She looked at me expectantly. I looked at her unimpressed. “That all?” “Here, allow me to elaborate. You perform all your fancy acrobatics-” “Aerobatics,” I corrected. “Aerobatics, she stressed, “And on the side you perform grand concerts to crowded halls filled with lovely, admiring fans, all of them having come just to hear your wondrous escapades in music!” I wondered if she was talking to herself. She got like this whenever describing her own dreams. But really, she was losing me. Not that she ever had me. I didn’t see the appeal. She must have picked up on this, as she quickly went on. “Picture what it would be like,” she tried, “An athletic Wonderbolt who’s also an amazing musician. You would bridge two different audiences; you would be popular beyond belief.” “Popular beyond belief?” I repeated aloud. She smiled triumphantly. “That’s right!” she capitalized, “Why, you could do it effortlessly with the skill you already possess. Dozens upon dozens of fans right at your hooftips. Which only require you to put those hooftips to the keyboard.” I thought for a moment. Then I came to a profound conclusion: I actually did see the appeal of that. Okay, I might have a bit of an ego. Just a little bit! But who wouldn’t want to be admired by thousands? Well, other than Fluttershy. She can actually speak from experience. “You know what Rarity?” I said, drawing her attention, “I’ll give this a shot. Where do we start?” She smiled. “Downstairs.” “Great! Let’s get started!” I agreed confidently. “Wonderful! Glad you could see it my way. I bet you’ll be an excellent teacher.” Wait, what? Oh, right. She wants lessons. …oh. I sat on the bench while Rarity sat next to me on a chair she’d pulled up. I fiddled aimlessly with the keys, never really pressing one down. When I did, it was too soft too hear. I looked back up at her. She was staring at me with a blank face. Matching with my own look, I went back to the keys and repeated my process for a few moments. I occasionally did hit a chord loud enough to be heard, favoring the higher, lighter notes. Rarity shifted in her seat, drawing my attention. Glancing at her, I saw she still had that same, unreadable expression. I went back to the piano again. “Rainbow?” she started softly. “Yeah?” “Are we going to get started?” “Uh… we already have. This is just… showing you how to push down they keys in the right way?” She raised an eyebrow. “I already know how to do that. I’m not entirely new to playing, remember? Beside, how many ways are there to push down a key?” Perfect! I thought. “Well,” I started, doing my best Twilight impression, “You can simply push down the keys but there’s a whole spectrum of ways to push down the keys. Look at this.” I pushed down a key then quickly popped my hoof off of it while pushing forwards as well. “Hear that? It was softer than it normally would have been because of how I came off.” “Oh,” she said, her eyes widening, “I didn’t even notice. Would you mind doing that again?” I did so, a smirk coming on my face. “Yes, I think I see what you mean,” she said, smiling confidently. I held back a laugh. I completely got her. And the best part was that I wasn’t even lying about the soft part. “Alright,” I said, “That’s some pretty advanced stuff though. I know I make it look easy but it takes months to get perfect. Maybe a year. I think we should start with something simpler.” She nodded, “You’re the expert.” “That I am! Now then…” I racked my brain around trying to find something. What did I first learn? Ugh, I can’t remember. “You said you’ve already played so you already know the basics right? Like the seven white keys from A to G are an octave, then repeats at A again? And the black keys are sharps and flats?” “Yes, I’m aware.” “Well that’s not the whole story. Those rules are only true when you’re in the key of C, which only has the white keys unless a song otherwise says so. Got that?” She agreed. “There’s a bunch of different keys like that.” She looked at the piano. “I can see that.” “Not like that,” I exaggerated, “I mean keys in a key signature, not the ones on the piano. Look, you know those sharp and flat symbols that are sometimes at the front of a line of sheet music? That’s a key. It tells you which keys to use.” She looked at me confused. “Which keys to use?” “Yeah, the keys.” “So the symbols at the beginning are the keys?” “Yeah,” I agreed, then added, “Wait, no, that’s the key it’s in.” “So what are they keys then?” “Uh… which key?” “That’s what I’m asking you.” I looked her as she gave a blank, uncomprehending expression. I turned to the piano and just looked at it, trying to figure out what just happened. In a moment I subconsciously pressed down a chord too softy to be heard. “I’m sorry darling, but I’m afraid you lost me. I just used the symbols at the beginning to tell me what to and to not use. I didn’t pay attention to anything special about them.” “It’s fine,” I dismissed. Jeez, teaching’s a lot of work! “Let’s start with this,” I said, “See this key?” I indicated Middle C, the C in the middle of the keyboard (duh). “When you start here, every white key is part of its key.” “Key?” Not again. “I’m just going to call it scale. The keys are the piano keys and scales are this.” I ran up the keyboard, hitting every white key for a short distance before bringing it back down. “A set of keys.” She thought for a moment. “I get it now.” “Great. So… scales…” I paused, trying to figure out where I was going. “So if I go to another key to for a scale, it changes which keys are in the scale. Like, if I go down one to B, the scale now has some black keys.” I went up and down that one for example. “Alright. What’s the purpose for them?” “Huh?” “Why are there different scales?” “Um… because they sound different?” “…Right,” she said simply. “Okay, so there’s also some scales that break that rule. They have extra keys or some are missing. Like the chromatic scale for instance.” “Chromatic scale?” she asked innocently. “Yeah, it has every key, white and black in it… Why are you smiling like that?” She suppressed her smile. “Oh, nothing dear.” “Really? Because people always gave me that look whenever I said chromatic scale,” I deadpanned. “How odd,” she dismissed. “Right… Well, I think that wraps up this lesson.” “What? But we just started.” “And I gave you plenty to think about. Besides, I think I hear the sky calling.” “Rainbow-” “Shh, listen,” I changed my voice, “Rainbow… come fly…” She gave me a flat stare. “Fine. Just… practice what I went over or something.” She kept her stare a moment longer before relenting. “Very well, Rainbow. I suppose you need a break after helping me earlier anyways-” And just like that I was three hundred light years away! Or something like that. I didn’t hear much of what she said after I jetted out the window, something about not using the window, I think. Eh, too late now. As I settled on a nice, fluffy cloud I thought about what I had just gotten myself into. I liked what Rarity had said but I knew enough about real life to know that wasn’t actually a song away. Though it was nice to think that. Maybe I could be a musician as a side thing. But as much as I hated to admit it, there were plenty that were better than me at it. I would need to get started somewhere. Hmm… I wonder if Twilight could help with that. She has a book on everything. I’ll ask her later. Right now, though, I just wanted to relax and pretend I didn’t have to awkwardly teach my friend for Celestia-knows how long.
