Working Class DJ

by Lise

Rating: teen
Tags: Slice of Life, DJ P0N-3, My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic, Octavia
Length: 43647

DJ Princess, Techno Prodigy, the Coolest Tease of the music world. On stage, Vinyl is all that and more. Offstage, she is something else entirely. In fact, it was never intended that she be involved in music.

DJ Princess, Techno Prodigy, the Coolest Tease of the music world. On stage, Vinyl is all that and more. Offstage, she is something else entirely. In fact, it was never intended that she be involved in music.

A rebellious decision on her eighteenth birthday, however, started a series of events that made her set her sights on the most unlikely of careers.

Inspired by the 'Journey' prompt of the Hazardous Writing Materials and Challenges group.

Special thanks to Malefactory for editing.

Published 2015-12-20 19:40:01 UTC
Last updated 2016-02-22 22:37:42 UTC

Act I. 1. Lucky and Unhappy

Cold sweat, dry mouth, racing heart, trembling hooves. Vinyl was breathing heavily. The roar of the crowd was so loud that it reached the backstage bathroom. They were calling her name, they had been doing so for over five minutes.

Glasses, teeth, mane, glasses, teeth, mane, Vinyl kept repeating to herself as she looked at the mirror. The popular face of DJ Pon3 looked back, oozing confidence from every pore. Techno shades hid the fear in her eyes, messy electric blue mane masked the indecisiveness, headphones chased the voices of doubt away.

The bathroom door opened without a knock. A grey earth pony with a bowtie entered and unapologetically looked at Vinyl.

"House is packed," she said in a thick Trottingham accent. "How are you doing, love?"

Vinyl continued staring forward, as if the mirror would miraculously give her strength.

"Hey, don't space out!" the earth pony scolded. "You've been through this. You'll be fine."

Fine. A funny thing to say. Vinyl was always fine, more than fine — DJ Princess, Techno Prodigy, the Coolest Tease of the music world, and dozens other names the press had given her. On stage, she was all that and more. Offstage, only three ponies knew what she was, and all of them were here tonight.

"Yes, of course," the DJ replied, her accent sharp — the epitome of High Canterlot speech. "I'll be fine."

* * *

The metronome ticked mercilessly. Vinyl was certain its only purpose was to bring suffering. Levitating her baton, the white unicorn glanced at her tutors. Both mares had known considerable fame in their life, both probably cost a small fortune to hire.

"When you are ready, young miss," Perfect Tact said, her voice capable of turning tea to ice. Beside her, Flawless nodded.

Vinyl really hated them addressing her in this fashion. It lacked any warmth whatsoever, an excuse to treat her as a foal. She had hoped that at least today they would show an ounce of emotion. Nonetheless, it was expected of her to behave accordingly. The baton flicked twice, then began moving rhythmically in the air. Vinyl started with a three beat pattern, holding it for a steady ten minutes. Not a word from her tutors. Only to be expected — their role was merely to correct mistakes. Other tutors were responsible for the actual teaching.

The metronome ticked on. Increase the tempo, slow the tempo, introduce a new instrument. Always the same exercise. No music, of course, such base things were beneath her. Vinyl would never be allowed anything as degrading. Directing, along with fencing and poetry, were merely things a pony of her stature had to be good at, but never actually do in public. If she were very lucky, next time her parents took her to a concert, they might allow her to point out the mistakes the conductor made.

"Beat four, young miss," Perfect Tact said sternly.

Vinyl reacted on instinct. It wasn't like she could be surprised. Years of practice had allowed her to know what her tutors would want before they did. The baton changed movement accordingly. A single tsk sounded. That was good. Last time there had been three. At least this way she knew her mother would be pleased, provided she managed to come home this week.

The lesson ended with a few comments that might as well be compliments or criticism. Vinyl had long stopped trying to make sense of their words. Nodding politely, she wished both her tutors a wonderful day, then watched as her valet escorted them out of the room.

"Well," she sighed, putting the baton box in its place, "looks like this would be another of those birthdays."

"Hush, miss Scratch!" The strict voice of her governess sounded nearby. "Such attitude does not become you!"

"My parents aren't coming home again, are they?" Vinyl didn't even bother looking.

"Her Grace has a most important diplomatic mission to see to. Although unfortunate, it is perfectly understandable."

There always was a reason. At times Vinyl wondered why they even bothered coming up with excuses.

"They have, of course, sent you a wonderful gift, young miss." The governess approached. "A rather..."

"Yes, I am sure it's enchanting." The white unicorn waved a hoof. "Please inform the kitchen not to prepare lunch today. I'll be going out."

"But, you haven't seen your gifts yet!" The governess protested. "And your cousin has most graciously accepted you visit him..."

"I am quite confident he has already forgotten." Vinyl levitated her vest on. "And please don't send any guards to keep an eye on me this time."

"If that is your desire, miss Scratch," the mare sighed audibly. Having been her governess for the last seven years allowed her that privilege. "Her Grace will be most displeased."

Vinyl didn't say anything, instead trotted out of the room. The governess was right, of course. Her mother would be absolutely furious at some point. Then again, it might be an improvement from the usual boredom Vinyl was forced to experience.

A host of servants greeted Vinyl as she walked along the corridor. The unicorn barely took any notice. Today she could afford to a be a bit casual, rebellious even. This is my eighteenth birthday, for Stars' sake! I might well behave in whatever fashion I choose! Why, I might even...

Magicking the door open, she trotted outside. She couldn't be described as a rebellious pony by any stretch of the imagination, but today she had her mind set on proving a point. If her parents couldn't care to be with her on her eighteenth birthday, then they wouldn't care what she did. And just to be sure they would feel disrespected, she was going to visit the most dangerous, unbecoming, ill-reputable place she could think of — Donut Joe's!

Trotting to the city centre felt refreshing. No teleportation, no carriage, no escort. For once Vinyl could enjoy the wind in her mane without fear of getting a hair out of place. The ground was a tad dirty for her taste, but bearable. For a moment she considered whether to pass by her cousin's or not. They didn't like each other particularly, but at least talked on occasion. Upon further reflection, though, she decided against it. Her cousin had the uncanny ability to ruin everypony's day.

"'scuse me, love," a pony addressed Vinyl out of the blue. "Happen to know where One Horse Alley is?"

Vinyl blinked. Thus was the first time she had been addressed so casually. It felt weird and slightly uncomfortable. To make things even more awkward, the one who addressed her was an earth pony. Vinyl had hardly any conversations with such. The only exceptions were foreign dignitaries her mother would invite to the manor.

"You alright, love?" the pony asked. Her accent was most peculiar. "You're staring."

"My sincere apologies." Vinyl quickly looked away. Way to humiliate herself in public. "Unfortunately, I am unfamiliar with the location in question—" She paused. That certainly wasn't helpful. Actually it was outright rude. She could at least make an effort to help. "Do you happen to know of any landmark I could use as reference?"

"You sure talk funny, love," the earth pony chuckled. "I’m trying to find The Crucible — best blooming pub west of the stadium."

"The stadium," Vinyl repeated. She had never heard of the Crucible, but the stadium she could work with. Concentrating, the unicorn brought an aetherial map of Canterlot in existence. "We are here." A bright red dot appeared near the centre of the map. "The stadium is all the way here." Another glowing dot emerged. "I gather the place you are seeking is somewhere in this area."

"Chicken and rice magic, there." The earth pony whistled, impressed. "Thanks, love," she said, nodding briefly before rushing away.

Vinyl blinked. What had just happened? Canterlot was home to all sorts, but this experience was confusing to say the least. Maybe going out wasn't such a good idea, after all, she considered. Maybe she should return to the manor? If she did, however, she wouldn't have the satisfaction of breaking the news to her parents... when they decided to actually show up.

The journey to Donut Joe's passed without further incident. A few colts complimented her mane in passing. They were promptly ignored. The doughnut establishment itself was well beneath the standards Vinyl was used to. The floor was literally covered with crumbs and sprinkles. Wet patches indicated hasty attempts at cleaning up, resulting in questionable outcomes. Vinyl felt herself want to levitate to the nearest table.

No! If it's good enough for Celestia, it's good enough for me! Walking boldly she made her way through then entire room, taking a seat at the very end of the counter. There! That wasn't so difficult.

"Always glad to see a new face," the unicorn at the cash register said, far too casually for Vinyl's linking. "I'm Joe. What can I get you?"

The question was sudden, lacking the most basic of manners. A crude comment, followed by a sloppy introduction, ending in rudeness. The only saving grace was that this behaviour was likely the result of poor upbringing rather than anything else.

"Whatever Princess Celestia usually has," Vinyl said, and instantly regretted it. Her left forehoof covered her mouth in the hopes nopony had noticed her faux pas.

"Well, that's a request I don't hear everyday," Joe laughed. "Maybe start with double chocolate?"

Feeling too ashamed to form an answer, Vinyl nodded. Thank the stars the place was almost empty. Everything will be alright, she kept repeating to herself. Nopony here knows you. Besides, it isn't an unreasonable request. There probably are hundreds of ponies that want to copy the Princess. Straightening up, the white unicorn looked around. There weren't many customers. From what she had heard while eavesdropping on the servants, the place was supposed to be packed. Apparently they were wrong or had exaggerated quite a bit.

"Here you go." A plate holding a single doughnut levitated onto the counter. "Let me know when you want to go on."

Vinyl stared at the thing before her. 'When?' That certainly was presumptuous of him. Both the desert and the plate it was served on were crude, the absolute antithesis of refined. Back home, the servants wouldn't be caught eating something as unbecoming as this.

Breaking off a small piece with her magic, Vinyl dared a bite. The taste was overwhelming! A rush of blood went to her head, making her dizzy.

"Water!" She managed to utter, hooves firmly gripping the edge of the counter. A glass promptly levitated towards her. Forgetting her manners, Vinyl grabbed it with her forehooves, draining it in a single gulp. That felt tremendously better.

"You alright, miss?" Joe asked. "You don't have any food allergies, do you?"

"No, no allergies," Vinyl replied, her pulse still quickened by the experience. "I'm just not used to this much sweetness. Could I have another glass of water, please?"

"Sure thing." The glass floated away, then returned full to the brim. "You should have told me this was your first time."

"No need for alarm," the unicorn said once she had halved her glass. "I was merely caught by surprise."

It was a lie, of course, but one thing Vinyl was good at was passing everything for the truth. It was the first thing her parents had taught her. In Canterlot there were two kinds of truth — internal and external. Internal truth was what a pony knew to be true, external — what she wanted others to believe it to be.

"Thank you kindly for the dessert." A double moon bit levitated on the counter. "My apologies that I shan't be able to finish it."

"Think nothing of it." Joe pushed the bit piece back without a second thought. "This one is on the house."

"A token of appreciation for your kindness, then." Vinyl pushed it back towards him. ‘A proper lady should never touch money with her own hooves’, all her books on etiquette insisted. Well, not anymore! Today she could do whatever she wanted!

"Tell me, do you happen to know of any interesting night clubs?" Her lips formed a rebellious smile.

2. Lunar Twin

The sign above the door read "Lunar Twin." Not the most comforting of names. Then again, this wasn't the most welcoming neighborhood, either. In fact it was so ill kept that Vinyl didn't have anything to compare it with. Any other night she wouldn't dare approach such a sketchy part of town. Right now, however, she was high on sugar and adrenalin, not to mention a few sips of alcohol.

I can do anything I want! Vinyl thought as a feeling of rebellious freedom swept through her. She felt invincible, like anything was possible. It was almost as if she had found herself after a lifetime of living in a cage.

"Sorry, miss," the bouncer of the Lunar Twin said. Her massive pegasus form completely blocked the club's entrance. "This is no place for you."

Unfazed, Vinyl levitated a few bit pieces in the direction of the pegasus.

"Ain't about the money, kid," the bouncer sighed. "You really don't want to go in there. Take this from me."

"I'm eighteen," Vinyl said sharply. "That means I'm of age!"

"Look, I've seen your type. Your family is rich or connected, probably both. All your life you've done the same old things, then one day you suddenly get bored, want to sh—" There was a slight pause, as the bouncer considered how far to go. "—to show your parents you are your own mare. So you run to the first nightclub you find and have a wild time ‘till morning. Am I close?"

Vinyl didn't say anything. It was scary how close the description was.

"I'll take that as a yes." The pegasus narrowed her eyes. "This is no place for such stuff. Half the colts I throw out will eat you alive after one look."

"I am perfectly capable of taking care of myself, thank you." Another set of coins floated towards the bouncer.

"Listen, princess..." Doubt had crept in the pegasus' voice. Apparently bits had a way of changing ponies' minds. "Are you absolutely sure you want to go in there?"

A nod was all the confirmation the bouncer needed. Grabbing the bits with her wing, she moved aside letting Vinyl pass. She did, however, stress that should the unicorn be in any trouble it was best to yell and yell loud.

A bit overdramatic, Vinyl thought. This was a club after all, not Tartarus. Hay, it wasn't even a suggestive club. No fights, no flankdancers, just music of sorts. She definitely was going to feel at home here.

The inside of the club was exactly as she imagined it — small, dark and absolutely filthy. The smell of tobacco and alcohol was enough to make her eyes water. If it was this bad when the place was only half full, she cringed to think what it would be like when packed. A few steps in and Vinyl felt her legs tremble. Only now did she realize what she was getting herself into. This was more than reckless. If she was in condition to teleport out, she definitely would.

Show no fear, she reminded herself. It's just like being at a soiree — as long as I appear confident, they won't touch me. Walking stiffly, the unicorn went to the bar and sat down. So far so good. All she needed to do was order something, avoid eye contact, then leave. She had already filled her rebel quota for the year.

"What will it be, sweet thing?" a mare asked. Judging by the suggestive clothing and the tray on her serving saddle, she was obviously a waitress. Yet that wasn't the reason Vinyl gasped in amazement — the mare's mane was glowing purple.

"Luminescent," Vinyl managed to say, still staring at the other’s mane.

"If only I had that effect on stallions," the waitress laughed. "Tips would be way better then. I take it you haven't been to a techno club before?"

The unicorn shook her head.

"Not to worry, princess. The Twin is the best place there is. Good drinks, good music, great partying. Two things though — never try the food, and don't go encouraging any stallions."

"I'll keep that under advisement," Vinyl said, making the waitress chuckle. "How did you colour your mane like that? Magic?"

"Manespray. So what will you be having?"

"Something to drink?" Vinyl asked hesitantly. With the amount of alcohol in the air, it was easy to guess how strong the drinks here were. "Potentially?" The unicorn's left ear flicked — an unbecoming habit she had when extremely nervous.

"Don't worry, little princess," the waitress chuckled again, patting Vinyl casually on the head. It took the unicorn an extreme amount of self control to keep from flinching. "I'll get you something you'll like. Just loosen up a bit and enjoy."

Loosen up and enjoy? Vinyl thought as the waitress disappeared to another part of the club. What was there to enjoy? The place was a dump. It was a miracle it wasn't quarantined. If her cousin caught wind of her being here, he probably wouldn't come within ten yards of her for a whole week. Why was this place so popular, then? Most of the ponies she had asked were adamant that the Lunar Twin as the best music club in Canterlot. Vinyl found it extremely difficult to believe, especially since there wasn't any music playing. None whatsoever!

"Hey there, sweetness," a dark-coated stallion said, moving uncomfortably close. "What is a nice uni like you doing in a place like this?"

"Charmed," Vinyl said, not bothering to hide her disgust. The "suitor", for lack of better term, was rather plain, attempting to impress with piercings and a flashy mane.

"Oh, you are and you know it." The stallion winked. "What’ch ya say I treat you to something nice?"

"Move an inch closer and I'll blind you," Vinyl hissed. In her mind the threat was supposed to send him running for the exit. The execution must have been lacking, since the stallion just snorted, stifling a laugh.

"Oh, you've already blinded me, sweet hooves," he said, then grabbed his shot with his lips and swallowed it in one gulp. Vinyl was clueless regarding the significance of the action, but could tell he was trying to impress her.

Calm down. Ignore him and he'll gradually go away. It's not like you are the only mare in this wretched place. In an attempt to reinforce that notion, Vinyl glanced around. Moments later she wished she hadn't. By the stars! She might not be the only mare in the club, but she definitely was the only unicorn. And it was showing! She could feel the entire room leering at her. Single unicorn with a High Canterlot accent in a place frequented by pegasi and earth ponies — things definitely didn't look good.

"Your drink, princess." the waitress stepped in between Vinyl and the stallion, placing a large glass in front of her. Vinyl had no words to describe how glad she was to see her. On the outside she pretended everything was perfectly normal, but on the inside she let out a sigh of relief. "You know it's really sweet your coltfriend agreed to treat you to this. Why, it's double his tab, and..."

Before the waitress could finish, the stallion had scurried off. Vinyl stared in amazement as she watched him push his way through the gathering crowd and out of the room.

"Free tip," the waitress whispered in her ear. "If you want to get rid of somepony, threaten them with the bill. Most can't rub two bits together."

"Thank you." Vinyl nodded. "You saved me from quite the predicament."

"Princess, you really need to talk proper," the waitress chuckled. "Half the crowd will think you're roleplaying and that could lead to... complications, if you catch my drift."

"I'll keep it under advisement." Vinyl nodded and took a sip of her drink. The moment she did, her eyes widened in surprise. She had been bracing herself for something that would burn her tongue off, instead she experienced a burst of soft fruity flavours. "This is..." She looked at the waitress blinking.

"Told you, I'll get you something you'd like," she said, then moved closer to whisper again. "You definitely don't look like you're used to the fiery stuff. If anypony offers you anything and it isn't me, don't try it!"

This is surprisingly kind of her, Vinyl thought. A coin levitated to to the waitress' tray. Now it was the pony's turn to blink in amazement.

"That's a thousand," she said in shock and disbelief. "You're giving me a thousand bits for a drink?!"

"Is it... wrong?" the unicorn asked. Close call. For a moment she almost said 'not enough.'

"Last tip of the night, princess," the waitress leaned closer to whisper again. "Only carry singles to a place like this." With that she quickly walked away.

An unusual request, although it probably made sense. There weren't that many things a pony could buy in the city with large denominations. Vinyl made a note to ask for change next time she went out, if there ever was a next time. It was already evening and she still hadn't returned home. Her governess had probably sent a priority letter to her mother by now. Maybe it wasn't too much to hope that this act of rebellion would force Vinyl's parents to actually return home for a few days?

Just this one drink. The unicorn took another sip. After that she was going home, and quite possibly pretend this day never happened.

"Are you ready, ponies?" A shout filled the room, nearly bursting Vinyl's eardrums. The crowd roared in response. "Good! ‘cause it's time to get started!"

The roars were replaced by the stomping of hooves. Vinyl stood up in an attempt to see what was going on. The place certainly had become packed all of a sudden. The only free space was at what could be described as a small stage in the far corner of the room, directly opposite the entrance. A crimson pegasus flapped confidently near the ceiling, his wings painted to resemble flames.

"Tonight, our selection is something else," the pegasus said into his head-mike. "Because tonight is?" He waved his forehooves inviting the crowd to respond.

"Night of the rising stars!" The crowd roared back.

"Right you are!" The flame-wing pegasus made a circle in the air. "Tonight, five have entered the moon! Will they be cast out? Or will the moon keep them as her own? You decide!"

This is ridiculous, Vinyl covered her ears in a vain attempt to shield herself from the noise. The ponies here must have the intellectual faculties of a four-year-old to enjoy such nonsense. Maybe this is the result of alcohol abuse? She took another sip of her drink. For a few brief moments the noise seemed to fade away only to come back with a vengeance. Vinyl grit her teeth, as a wave of raw sounds blasted through her.

"Let's hear it for DJ Dawnlight!" The pegasus' voice managed to reach the unicorn.

The ponies around Vinyl cheered loudly. She, on the other hoof, patiently waited for his "performance" to be over. In her eyes the DJ stallion had no place meddling with music. His composition was pure cacophony, barely held together by the most standard of rhythms. Clearly he had never seen a music sheet in his life, otherwise he would have attempted variety, since his execution was so utterly abysmal.

The second candidate did even worse. A pegasus mare, she went straight for originality, making the most basic of mistakes in the process. If Vinyl's instructors could hear, they would probably skin the DJ alive. And yet the crowd still seemed to like her! Talk about having low standards.

"Liking the show?" A male voice asked. "They certainly know how to set the crowd on fire."

"What they do not know is music theory," Vinyl said indignantly, not bothering to glance at whoever had addressed her. "A foal could do better! Experimentation is fine and well, but they could at least have the decency to know how to change rhythm without sounding like a crashing chandelier each time!"

"And you think you could do better?"

Vinyl felt a chill down her spine. Extremely slowly, she turned around. The flame winged pegasus was standing less than a hoof away, and he definitely didn't look pleased.

"You think you are better, or something?" He went on, feathers ruffled. "You think magic makes you special, princess?"

Not magic, but thirteen years of tutoring, the unicorn thought. The only thing that left her lips, however, was an unintelligible apology drowned by the noise of the club. Unfortunately for her, this didn't seem at all enough for the pegasus.

"Well, does it?" He poked her shoulder with the tip of his wing. In itself, the action was harmless, but for Vinyl it was the most shocking experience ever. Never before had anypony dared touch her, let alone poke her in such rude fashion. Not even her fencing instructor had the audacity to do so!

"’old on, just a moment, love." Vinyl felt somepony gently pull her off the seat and move her away from the pegasus. Her mind was still trying to cope with the shock, making everything seem like a dream she was forced to live through.

"You just stay here for a bit, alright?" a grey mare said, then without expecting a response, turned towards the pegasus. "You've got jam for brains, do ya?" Her tone was so sharp that the stallion instinctively took a step back. "Poor kid's scared witless, so stop being a git!"

"Hey now, Mel." The pegasus swallowed. "No need to get all crazy on me. Princess here called—"

"I bloody well ‘eard what she said!" The mare cut him short. "And did ya happen to see ‘er mark while you were checking out ‘er arse?"

The question instantly brought Vinyl back to reality, as a shade of pink covered her face. She definitely hadn't heard such colourful language before, let alone coming from a mare.

"She's a note, you josser!" The mare snorted. "If she says your stars need lessons, they bloody well need lessons!"

Stomping filled the room again. Apparently a new DJ was taking the stage. Vinyl wasn't following any of that. The only thing on her mind was to get out. She didn't like this place anymore. In fact she absolutely dreaded it! The smoke, the stench, the amount of ponies checking her out, even the subpar music she was forced to suffer was way more than she could take. Throughout the years she'd had many horrible birthdays, but this one took the cake.

"Stick to me, love.” Vinyl heard the mare say. "Pay no notice to the crowd and follow me till we get outside. Can you do that for me?" The unicorn nodded. "Good filly."

Will they try to prevent me from leaving? Vinyl felt her pulse quicken. Will they come after me outside? It's dark, and there's quite the walk to the centre. Even if I gallop it would take me half an hour... Dozens of questions filled her mind, none of them pleasant. Only when the club door closed behind her did she allow herself a slight moment of relief.

"Hey. Hey!" Vinyl could hear the mare's voice. Somehow it sounded unnaturally far away. Hadn't the two left the club side by side? "Keep it together, love. Don't you faint on me!"

"Why should I..." Vinyl began. Her entire body was trembling uncontrollably. Funny how she noticed this only now. The experience in the club must have shaken her up more than she thought. The unicorn turned her head to the side. The earth pony was there, trying to tell her something. Funny, though — her lips were moving, but Vinyl couldn't make out any words.

Isn't this marvelous? Vinyl attempted to smile, as she realized what was going on. My eighteenth birthday and I am about to faint in the street. A split-second later she promptly did.

Author's Note

Next chapter: Waking Up Never Is Easy.

3. Waking Up Never Is Easy

Waking up was brutal. It started innocently enough — the faintest feeling of a draft along Vinyl's hooves. This was the first time she experienced anything of the sort. The tickle soon became an annoyance, then a discomfort that got her semi-awake. Her legs twitched slightly, then moved about, trying to find the edge of the cover so she could pull it over them. The success was marginal. While Vinyl could feel the edge of the blanket at the tip of her hooves, it reluctantly refused to budge, forcing her to crack an eye open and use magic. That, however, uncovered the whole upper part of her back.

Isn't this marvelous? Vinyl thought bitterly. She could feel the comfort of sleep fleeing away. Moments later the pain struck. Suddenly, she felt like she had charged straight into a brick wall head first.

"Stars almighty!" Vinyl almost screamed as she attempted to stand up. It was as if her head had become a pincushion. What had she done to deserve this? No sooner had she asked the question, than her memories flooded back. Oh, right. I went to a nightclub, didn't I? Not to mention she had treated herself to absurd quantities of sugar and a bit of alcohol. If she wanted to get her parents mad, she had definitely succeeded.

"Glitter," Vinyl started massaging the base of her horn with a hoof, "bring me a glass of water, please. Oh, and also..." The sentence remained unfinished, as the unicorn suddenly noticed — this wasn't her room.

No crystal chandeliers, no huge windows, no mahogany desk... the room she was in, if it could even be called that, was small enough to fit in her wardrobe. One uncomfortable bed, one table... was that actually an oven? Whoever sleeps in the kitchen?! Vinyl wondered, shocked by the mere concept.

"Top o' the mornin', love," a vaguely familiar voice said, causing Vinyl to turn to her right. There was a grey earth pony in the corner of the room. And she was washing dishes? Somepony put a sink in their bedroom?! "Any betta? Ya sure gave me a scare."

Vinyl blinked. What was going on? She remembered the club, and the music, and the unpleasant experience she had had.

"Who are you?" she asked, her voice perfectly steady, despite her fear.

"Octavia Melody at yer service, princess." The mare bowed slightly. Did she mock me just now? "Call me Mel, love."

"Where am I, miss Melody?" the unicorn asked. When in doubt always use family names, etiquette demanded, even if she were facing a Trottingham ruffian.

"In me 'ome," the mare replied, then moved to the excuse of a fridge, from which she took out a small bowl with her mouth. She then proceeded to place it on the table facing Vinyl. "Good thin' yer light. I 'ad to carry yer whitey flank 'alf the bloomin' city."

Whitey flank? The notions of proper speech and etiquette apparently were foreign to the earth pony. Not to mention her abysmal manners. Just looking at the bowl made Vinyl sick. The contents aside, the bowl had fresh traces of saliva on the side.

"Is that hay?" Vinyl asked in disbelief. She's giving me hay? What does she take me for? Some uncultured animal?

"Is good for you, love," Octavia replied unfazed. "Especially after last night. Fainted like a bloody damsel, right in fron' o' me. Good yer a light little thin'."

Vinyl froze. This was beyond awkward. She remembered fainting. More important, she had just pictured what had happened before that. Oh, my stars! Vinyl turned pale. What'd had she been thinking?! Going to a club like that could have gotten her in serious trouble! Especially after what she had said to that crimson pegasus. What in Tartarus had possessed her to do such a thing? Her spoilt attitude, that's what! If she hadn't made such a big deal of spending her birthday alone, none of this would have happened!

"You alright, love?" The earth pony sat at the table across Vinyl. "Look like ya've been through the sauce."

"Excuse me?" A tiny patch of red appeared on Vinyl's face. "I'll have you know, that I do not consume alcohol! Yesterday was an exception, and even so, the amount was far from getting me..." She paused. Octavia was trying to stifle a chuckle, quite unsuccessfully at that. "What?" Vinyl asked, her voice precisely one range higher than usual, so as to indicate indignation.

"You, love." The earth pony smiled. "Ye're really posh. Easy ta see this isn't yer world. 'Been through the sauce' means 'been through Tartarus'." Vinyl's expression went blank. "Tartarus — fire and sauce. The sauce," Octavia explained, only increasing the unicorn's confusion. "Trotny accent, love. Not as stron' as used to be, mind."

You must be joking. Your pronunciation is so disorganized that you might as well call it another language. Honestly, Saddle Arabia ponies are easier to understand!

"It's alright," she said, looking at the bowl of hay. "My mistake entirely. And, I really do appreciate the food." Maybe I'm just being ungrateful. Not everypony has my family's means. And she did help me without anypony asking her to... "Thank you for saving me," she said quietly.

"Think nothing o' it, love." Octavia nodded. "Just finish yer breakfast. You'll feel a world betta."

The hay tasted bland. It was like eating cardboard. Vinyl tried as hard as she could not to offend, but even her control wasn't enough to keep it from showing. The way she slowly chewed and chewed, reluctant to swallow, made it obvious she took no pleasure in it.

"Want me to add some sugar, love?" Octavia offered, standing up.

"No, please, anything but that!" Vinyl nearly shouted in panic. She had had more than enough sugar for one week. "It's alright. I'll buy an apple on my way back home."

"Apples," Octavia repeated. Vinyl could hear her swallow hungrily.

"You don't have apples?" the unicorn asked cautiously.

"Not this month, no," the other replied. "Needed to pay me rent. T’is bloody expensive in Canterlot. Cost me everything I 'ad just to get 'ere."

The pony had spent everything she had to get here? Vinyl had heard of such ponies. 'Transplants' they were called, and were viewed poorly, regardless if they had money or not. Octavia clearly didn't have a bit to her name, but even so, she did seem quite nice.

Struggling, Vinyl swallowed the mouthful of hay. The unpleasant taste of blandness remained. No way she was finishing a bowl of that.

"Let us go have breakfast outside." She stood up. "My treat."

"Never say no to free food," Octavia said, then to Vinyl's horror took the bowl of hay and put it back in the fridge. So much for hygiene habits.

The neighbourhood looked relatively well during the day, although it wasn't a place Vinyl would frequent on her own. Judging by the palace in the distance, it was pretty much on the opposite side of town from the nightclub. That meant the pony had carried her through the whole of Canterlot. Had she known, she could have asked Octavia to carry her to the manor itself.

The manor, Vinyl sighed. They were probably going crazy with fear. A full night spent outside — things like this would hardly pass unnoticed. Her governess had undoubtedly sent a dozen scrolls to her parents, the captain of the city guard, and possibly one to Princess Celestia herself. There definitely would be Tartarus to pay once Vinyl got back. Before that, however, she was going to enjoy some breakfast.

The fruit stalls in the area looked averagely decent, but Vinyl felt she didn't want to risk it. Instead, the two ponies spent a little longer walking towards the center until they passed by something the unicorn deemed acceptable. All that time, Octavia was alarmingly quiet. Did I do something to upset her? Vinyl wondered. Usually when she was with ponies her age she was the center of attention. All to be expected, having her family’s status in mind. Being with somepony and not hearing them bombard her with questions and compliments felt concerning somehow.

Buying a basket of apples, Vinyl suggested having a bite at one of the squares. Octavia, on the other hoof, insisted on going to the park. It was a somewhat unusual request — Vinyl had heard that the area was to be avoided after dark. Still, she did agree to it. It was day, and besides, her magic was capable of bringing the attention of the city guard, if needed.

"So—" Octavia paused as she swallowed her first apple in one huge bite, "—why'd ye go to the Twin?"

"Oh." Vinyl took a delicate bite from the apple levitating in front of her. It was juicy, tasty, just the thing to get rid of the hay's unpleasant aftertaste. "It's not that important."

"Love," Octavia looked at her sternly, another apple in her hoof, "when a pony like you says t’is not importan', it bloody well is."

The tone was calm, but Vinyl still felt a tad intimidated. Not scared, rather like she was late for a lesson with her tutors. Should I tell her? She'll only laugh if I do.

"I wanted to try it out," she said, looking Octavia straight in the eye. "This was my first time at a nightclub, you know."

"Really?" the earth pony asked, the word dripping with sarcasm. "Ye're jossing me."

"And I must say the experience was horrendous!" Vinyl frowned as she spoke. "The smoke, the stallions..." she waved her hooves around incapable of finding the appropriate words to express her dislike. "And the music," she took a deep breath, shaking her head. "Honestly, some of those ponies should just quit. I mean, they haven't even grasped the basics. Like my aunt used to say 'there's no point trying to fly if you couldn't even walk'."

"Yer aunt is a pegasus?" Octavia arched a brow.

"No, she..." Vinyl swallowed. Maybe it was best to keep that information for herself. "What were you doing there, miss Melody?" She innocently changed the subject.

"Job 'untin'," the mare replied. "Was at least."

Vinyl felt a lump of ice form in her stomach. Stars. I've cost her her livelihood, she thought.

"No surprises, mind. Am no filly no more." Octavia grabbed another apple. This was her third, so far. "Five nights a week are too much for me."

"Oh?" Vinyl relaxed. Thank the Stars! It's not my fault. "You don't look much older than..."

"Love, I'm twenty-two," the earth pony said unceremoniously, and chomped her next apple. "Afta’ six years of trancin', me 'ead could use some rest."

"Twenty..." Vinyl blinked. She would never have expected that. "I'm eighteen." She looked at the apple in front of her. Somehow she didn't feel hungry anymore. "Just had my birthday yesterday." And what a disaster that turned out to be!

"What?" Octavia almost shouted in surprise, causing Vinyl to flinch, startled. "Ye're jossing me!" She looked at the unicorn with a combination of disbelief and pity.

"I don't think so?" Vinyl ventured a guess, moving slightly back, as she did so. She had no idea what 'jossing' was, but she doubted it to be anything proper.

"Ye 'ad yer bloomin' birthday and di'n't say so?" Octavi shook her head with the slightest of sighs. "Love, ye need to learn more 'bout nightlife. Just 'ad to say that, and ye'd been treated like a princess." The earth pony trotted a few steps away as Vinyl stared blankly ahead, trying to make sense of things. "Come along, love," Octavia looked over her shoulder. "Time to fix this."

As Octavia almost literally dragged her out of the park, Vinyl felt slight concern. When she saw they were heading in the rough direction of the night club, her fears grew.

"You know what, I think I should go." Vinyl stopped as the building of the Lunar Twin became visible. "It's almost noon, and I'm sure you have a lot of things to be doing..."

"Not leaving you stay with a bad memory of your birthday, love," the earth pony replied, her answer capable of making a grammar tutor cringe. "Not after what ‘appened last night."

"No, honestly, it's not a concern." Vinyl tried to back away, but Octavia wasn't having it. A hoof behind Vinyl's and the unicorn had no choice but to continue forward towards the club, despite her reluctance.

"Relax, love," the earth pony assured her. "You're with me now."

Somehow that didn't bring any relief. The entrance was guarded by the same pegasus bouncer that he'd been there the previous night. That was unfortunate. Knowing ponies, Vinyl expected to hear the dreaded 'told you so'. Alas, she wasn't disappointed.

"Come back for more, princess?" The bouncer smirked. "Warned you what would happen, didn't I?"

"'ey! Give the lass a break, Charm," Octavia stepped in before Vinyl could come up with a response of her own. "Was bad 'nough last nigh'."

"Well, if she had bothered listening when I warned her..." The pegasus was not impressed. "And if you've come searching for something you lost, forget it. Things stay lost in the Twin. Good thing it wasn't your..."

"Oi! Charm, enough with the bloody jokes!" Octavia interrupted, though not fast enough. Was she about to say what I think she was? Vinyl thought, disturbed. "Just let us in, will ye?"

The bouncer blinked. Her eyes went from Octavia to Vinyl then back again. It was almost as if she was measuring how much damage the unicorn could do. Meanwhile, Vinyl was regretting every minute of it. I should have gone home, she thought. I should have politely, yet firmly, refused to follow Octavia to this wretched place. Unfortunately, she hadn't and now was about to get on the pegasus' bad side. Not too much of a loss, considering she was never ever going to set hoof in this place again. Being measured by a common nightclub bouncer, however, made her feel uncomfortable to say the least.

"Just keep it down," the bouncer sighed and moved aside.

"You're a mate, Charm." Octavia smiled and trotted inside. "Coming, love?" She briefly glanced over her shoulder at Vinyl. Having no choice, the unicorn followed. Every part of her being felt this was a mistake, but she couldn't just not go in. Doing so was rude, unbecoming and cowardly — it went against her very nature.

The club was much different than it had been last night. The smell of cheap cigarettes and alcohol still filled the air, yet the leering crowds were gone, thankfully. The floor was freshly swept and mopped, which was a welcome surprise. Apparently somepony was familiar with the notion of cleanliness, even if attempting to apply it in a place like this seemed to be a lost cause.

"This way, love." Octavia went straight towards the stage in the corner of the room. The equipment was still there. "Just magic the power on, would ya?"

What are you trying to do? Vinyl wondered as she looked around for a power switch. It didn't take her long to find one — a lever with warning markings was clearly visibly a few steps from the entrance. And apparently this place was built by a three-year-old, she thought disapprovingly, but turned on the power nonetheless. A cascade of laser lights flooded the room, mixing with the sunlight creeping in from the windows.

"Now just take a seat somewhere." The earth pony started playing around with the turntable.

Oh, dear stars, no! Vinyl could groan! Was Octavia seriously going to play some music? That was her big plan? Vinyl wanted to forget the events of last night, not have them permanently burned into her mind.

"Ready, love?" Octavia asked.

"It's not as if I have a choice," the unicorn muttered under her breath. We might as well get this over with. Quickly, if possible.

"Mind, what's your name, love?" Octavia asked, still fiddling with something. "Didn't catch it earlier."

This certainly was embarrassing. Indeed, Vinyl had not mentioned it even once. Somehow she had assumed the mare would know it automatically. The reason, possibly, was because for the greater part of her life, Vinyl had somepony make introductions for her.

"Vinyl," she said, still a bit uncomfortable she had forgotten her basic manners. "Vinyl Scratch."

Then the music started. Octavia had chosen to begin with percussion. Quite the simple beat, but at least it followed the basic rules, unlike the monstrosities of last night. A layer of harp sounds was added. That piqued Vinyl's interest. She was by no means familiar with contemporary music, but the combination was more than a bit peculiar. No attempt to make it flashy or loud, just a fine blend of sounds. It wasn't an orchestra by any means, but considering the instrument Octavia was using, it was pretty close.

A few moments more, and a serious of violins joined it. Fake, of course — Vinyl's acute sense of hearing could easily tell the difference. As much as she hated to admit it, though, the result was actually nice — there was composition, presence, style, everything was by the book. Vinyl's tutors would be hard pressed to find any flaws. And then things went crazy.

A second was all it took to transform the passable orchestral rendition into a chaotic waterfall of sounds. Combinations that shouldn't even exist streamed into Vinyl's ears, and they weren't half bad! It was as if Octavia had taken existing music theory, smashed it to pieces, run it through a grinder, and serve it to Vinyl in an impossible way that made sense. But things didn't end there.

"Vinyl," the unicorn heard her own voice in the mix. "Vi-vi-vi-vi-vi-vinyl. Vinyl Scratch."

For over a minute Vinyl just stood there, mesmerized. Was it so wrong that she liked this? Technically it wasn't even music, just a combination of fake sounds jumbled together in a new age gramophone. Her tutors would scold her just for being within earshot of such a 'blight upon music'. And yet, it sounded so good, so melodious. Vinyl could isolate every separate sound, feel it as it connected with the rest. This was no random coincidence! Vinyl could tell years of study and effort had gone into creating this effect, seamless as Octavia made it appear to be.

"You have no idea how lucky you are, princess," Vinyl heard somepony whisper behind her. It was the bouncer. "Mel used to fill stadiums back in Trottingham. And now she's sampling your voice in a private performance."

"Used to fill stadiums?" Vinyl swallowed. Based on the earth pony's lifestyle, she definitely hadn't expected Octavia to be famous or anything. “Is she a musician?”

"Don't tell me you haven't noticed." The pegasus snorted, then pointed at Octavia.

As the earth pony was working the turntable, eyes closed to fully feel the music, her cutie mark was clearly visible. If Vinyl hadn't been so conceited this entire day, she would have noticed much sooner — Octavia's cutie mark was a purple treble clef.

Author's Note

Next chapter: Grandmaster Mel

4. Grandmaster Mel

"Miss Scratch!" her governess said in the most indignant voice possible. "Where have you been? Half the city guard spent all night looking for you!"

If that is true, they definitely did a poor job, Vinyl thought. Other matters aside, I spent half a day walking around Canterlot. If any of the city guards were taking things seriously, they would have approached me.

The governess continued voicing her disapproval, but Vinyl's mind was elsewhere. The piece Octavia had played had taken her completely off guard — a 'vocal trance', as the pony had called it, and it had been magnificent. By no means as refined as a concert — there was no comparing real instruments with third rate recording samples — but perfect nonetheless. Every note in place, Octavia had made use of the strengths of the instrument, while avoiding its weaknesses. If the 'DJs' of last night had an eighth of her skill, the experience would have been tolerable.

"Miss Presence," Vinyl said, interrupting the governess, "didn't you have a cousin in Trottingham?"

The question was unexpected, causing the older unicorn to stop mid sentence. It was extremely unusual for Vinyl to ask anything about somepony’s personal life. She hadn't done so since she were a filly.

"Yes," the governess replied, slightly hesitant. "Yes, I do, Miss Scratch."

"Are you still in contact with her?"

"I suppose I could send her a letter." The slightest of frowns appeared on her face. "What is this about, young miss? Please tell me you are not considering going to Trottingham only to spite her Grace."

"My stars, no!" Vinyl said shocked. Whyever would she do that for? "I simply wanted to know something concerning the Trottingham music scene. The popular music scene."

"Popular music scene?" The governess tilted her head a fraction to the left.

"Disk jockeys to be exact." Vinyl passed a hoof through her own mane. It was horrendously filthy by her standards, still full of the smell of tobacco and alcohol. She was going to have to have a long bath before she could call for her manestyler. "Please see to it that there is something for me by this afternoon," her voice as gentle as always, but the tone was of a noble, exactly the same her mother used when issuing orders in a polite fashion. "Also, please tell the kitchen to prepare something light." Vinyl headed towards the door, leaving the governess at a lack for words. "I'll be having a bath until then."

The bath was a starsend — Vinyl could feel the filth wash away and her body breathe anew. No more did she have to suffer the stench of sweat and smoke that had been plaguing her since last night. It was also nice to be able to spend a while relaxing. Never before had she appreciated a bath as much as now.

"Apologies, Lady Vinyl," a quiet voice came from outside the room. "Chef would like to know whether you prefer to have lunch brought to you, or if you wish to have it in the dining room as usual."

"The dining room would do fine, Glitter," Vinyl said, slight annoyance in her voice. Her personal maid had a tendency to be overly diligent at times, to the point of being grating. "I'll be there in ten minutes."

"Of course, Lady Vinyl." Vinyl could almost hear the maid curtsy in the corridor. The thought brought a slight smile to her face. Two years in the household and you still behave as if it's your first day.

Leaving the bathtub, Vinyl slipped into a bathrobe, levitated a towel onto her head, and left for the dining room. As expected, there were several servants awaiting her. One dutifully pulled back her chair as she approached. The chef was also there, waiting eagerly. Poor Gustave, Vinyl thought. The griffon had probably been looking forward to this event for months. It was no secret that for the greater part of the year Vinyl was the only household member who appreciated his culinary delights. Other than the occasional monthly reception, there was precious few ponies he could serve.

"My apologies, Monsieur Gustave," Vinyl said politely, as she took her seat. "I hope yesterday's absence has not ruined any masterpiece."

"Not at all, Mademoiselle Vinyl." The large griffon beamed. As all renowned chefs, he was as easy to please as he was to anger — a kind word and a bit of attention was all it took to get on his good side. "May I present you Aubergines a l'orange with a touch of cheddar, all covered in a rich apple mustard sauce."

Undoubtedly an exquisite dish. Vinyl delicately cut off a piece and levitated it into her mouth. All that time her hooves did not touch the table. The aubergines were pleasant enough, so she gave the chef a satisfied nod, which made him puff up his chest with pride and leave the dining room with the air of one pleased to have performed his duty. The unicorn's thoughts were still elsewhere, though.

"Glitter," Vinyl began, "are you at all familiar with modern music?"

"Modern music, Lady Vinyl?" the maid asked, slight concern in her voice. "No, I fear not, your Ladyship."

Of course you wouldn't be, Vinyl could sigh. It isn't like mother would bother hiring anypony who wasn't utterly boring.

"I think I'd prefer to enjoy my lunch in private," Vinyl said, a clear instruction for everypony to leave. "Glitter, tell my manestyler I'll be joining her in a short while."

"Of course, Lady Vinyl," the maid said, and followed the other servants out of the dining room.

Finally alone. How did you do what you did, Octavia Melody? The unicorn took another bite of her food. It was impossible to achieve such feats without intense preparation. And yet the earth pony's knowledge of musical history was appalling, to say the least. She seemed to be aware of the works of the classical masters, yet not where or when they were born. It was ludicrous to think any music school would accept her as one of their students. She had a treble clef as a cutie-mark, but clearly wasn't a composer, at least not in the normal sense. Octavia seemed to be a mere 'disk jockey', and yet her grasp of music was far greater than most ponies Vinyl had ever seen.

Her plate half empty, Vinyl went to get her mane done. Usually she would go for finely braided, but this time she requested a looser look, along with a good hoofacure. By the middle of the afternoon her new do was complete. Right on time too — her governess had managed to get the requested information from her sister and carefully stacked it in a thick purple binder. Vinyl thanked her, then excused herself to her study. Once there, she locked the door, sat comfortably at the desk and started reading.

Apparently the whole 'DJ' thing wasn't as new as Vinyl had expected it to be. The first instances were said to have appeared a few decades ago in the Manehatten unicorn underground. From there it had spread throughout Equestria, including to Trottingham, where it developed into something completely different.

So this is what you meant by 'trancing' — a version of aether dance music that focuses on instrumentals with vocal samples used as a chorus, Vinyl read. On paper it sounded absolutely dreadful; in practice pretty much the same, if the 'rising stars' were an indication.

Bored with the theory, the unicorn went straight to the section dealing with the top five Trottingham DJs. There was no telling what methods her governess had used to obtain all this and in such record time, but she had been more than thorough. The first name on the list was a stallion called DJ Flower — a stage name, no doubt. Apparently he was credited with bringing the techno craze to Trottingham a decade ago, as well as influencing the first generation of local DJs. For the most part he had performed at clubs and parties, though recently he had started creating records instead. Vinyl levitated the page away, then froze. There, right before her eyes, was a newspaper clipping of Octavia. The title read Grandmaster Mel rocks Celestial Stadium at farewell performance

"Oh. My. Stars!" Vinyl whispered, unable to contain her surprise.

So Octavia was famous, and more than just a little! She was cited as being one of the pioneers of trance, adapting it to be more suitable for the dance crowd. She was also the first to use classical instruments in her mixes. No wonder the music she created this morning had such a profound effect! A crowd favourite, seven years stage of experience, to this day Octavia still had several fan clubs… and she had throw all that away for a one-room apartment in Canterlot?

The other pages remained untouched. It was the clipping that held importance. The earth pony had definitely piqued Vinyl's interest. There was more music sense in Octavia’s hoof than in the entire nightclub combined. For goodness sake, the pony had more music sense than all of Vinyl's tutors combined! Dry theory was all well and good, but unless it could be applied in practice it remained pointless.

Carefully levitating the pages in a pile, Vinyl placed them back in the binder. Only Octavia's paper-clipping remained on the desk. The unicorn then went to the shelf. Her baton box was there — a fine instrument, as her father had told her shortly before Vinyl had received her cutie-mark. Supposedly, it had the power to control music and create magic for the senses. Ever since she had started using it, Vinyl saw it as a useless, unnecessary, extremely expensive prop.

Vinyl unlocked her study door and rang the servants' bell. Within seconds there was a discreet knock, followed by Glitter entering.

"You rang, Lady Vinyl?" the maid asked with the most worried expression Vinyl had ever seen.

"Inform Miss Presence that I shall be going out for the rest of the day." The white unicorn glanced at the wardrobe. Should I get a vest today? Probably not. A scarf might do, though. "I have no idea at what time I shall return. And please, ask her not to send scrolls to the city guard. A few messages to my parents should suffice."

The maid's face turned pale. It was obvious she didn't like bringing bad news to Vinyl's governess. At present, however, that wasn't Vinyl's concern.

"And tell her that is my request," she added, much to Glitter's relief. "Also, inform Stoic I have let you have the afternoon off. That is all."

A slight curtsy and the maid was gone. That went well. Now all Vinyl had to do was go to the Canterlot again.

The trip was less uncomfortable than last time — Vinyl couldn't say she had gotten used to it, but at least it was somewhat familiar... as were the whistling colts. Honestly! If you think that would win you any mares, you are better off alone!

Vinyl's first stop was Donut Joe's, this time for an entirely different reason. No more sugar bombs for herself, Vinyl ordered a whole boxful to go. It was slightly embarrassing having Joe inquire about her health in public, but understandable after yesterday's scene. She didn't forget to thank him and give a large tip — large by his standards.

Next was Octavia's home. Vinyl had a vague recollection of the area. Thankfully for her, all the private tutoring had helped her develop an almost photographic memory. Backtracking her hoovesteps, although long, did bring her to the place she desired. Once again there were ponies staring at her. Vinyl couldn't tell whether it was because she was a unicorn, or because they had a thing against strangers. Eyes on the goal, she told herself.

The building in which Octavia lived seemed much more rundown than Vinyl remembered. It was a wonder that anypony chose to live in such conditions, and only on hay and water at that! Arriving at the door, the unicorn levitated the stray hairs of her mane in place, checked that her hooves were clean, as much circumstances would allow, then gently knocked on the door.

No answer. Waiting a few moments, the unicorn knocked again, this time harder. Same response. This isn't good. Where could I find her? I am certainly not going back to that nightclub looking for her!

"Try louder," a shout came from behind Vinyl. Startled, the unicorn turned around to see an old earth stallion sitting on the pavement across the street, a straw of wheat in his mouth. "When Tavi sleeps, even Tartarus itself could hardly wake her," he laughed.

"Oh, thank you for the advice," Vinyl said in her High Canterlot accent, making the stallion wave a hoof in response. That certainly was weird behaviour. The polar opposite of her grandmother. Vinyl shivered at the memory of their meetings.

So, I should be louder, should I? her horn flared up. An orb of kinetic energy slammed against the door, causing it to vibrate. The resulting sound was so loud, that it almost made Vinyl drop the box of doughnuts she was carrying on her back. She had definitely gone overboard. The slightest of blushes on her face she looked around, ashamed. Surprisingly, nopony seemed to care. They were all going about their business. Even the stallion across the street didn't seem bothered in the least.

"Vinyl?" A surprised voice asked. The unicorn turned around to see an extremely messy, semi-awake version of Octavia staring at her. "What—" the earth pony yawned audibly, not bothering to cover her mouth with a hoof, "—by Tia are ye doin' 'ere?" Her accent was incredibly thick. Apparently she wasn't joking this morning, when she said she was attempting to hide it.

"I just came to thank you for your present this morning," Vinyl said, slightly nervous. It wasn't often that she felt this way. Actually, this was the first time she was nervous meeting a pony outside of her family. "Might I come it?"

With another huge yawn Octavia moved aside letting the unicorn to pass. So far, so good, Vinyl thought as she entered. The room was just as a disaster it had been this morning. Vinyl levitated the box on the table, then looked about for a place to sit. There weren't many options.

"Si' on th' be'," Octavia said, heading to the sink. Vinyl had no idea what that meant, but she quickly went to the cleaner side of the table and sat down. Silently, she watched the earth pony prepare a cup of tea. A small kettle was filled with water, then placed on the stove. All this was done using hooves — a curious concept, as far as Vinyl was concerned.

Pouring the steaming water in a cup with a few leaves, Octavia joined the unicorn at the table. Taking an audible gulp, she closed her eyes for a few moments, then swallowed, completing her ritual with a satisfied 'ahhh'. Only then, did she open her eyes again and turn to Vinyl.

"So, what's this about, love?" she asked. Taking another gulp of tea.

"I brought you some doughnuts," Vinyl said, uncertain.

"Smashin'!" the earth pony replied, and quickly went for the box. "Sweet of you, love." She shoved Vinyl with an elbow, at which the unicorn laughed politely. Honestly speaking neither the humour, nor the action was to the unicorn's liking, but she put up with it.

Another minute dragged on, with Octavia devastating the contents of the box, and Vinyl sitting patiently. The earth pony looked as if she hadn't eaten in days, which was difficult to believe, since she had had a full basket of apples this very morning.

"Are..." Vinyl began, then stopped. The question she was about to ask seemed incredibly rude. "Are you eating enough? You seem quite famished."

"No worries, love." Octavia chewed on her eleventh doughnut — a double chocolate glaze that made Vinyl shiver just looking at it. "Got me plenty o' 'ay, but missin' some actual taste in me life."

"Oh," Vinyl replied, focusing her attention on the nearly empty box. What's wrong with me? I should just ask her and get it over with. She's just a Trottingham earth pony, for goodness' sake! "I saw that you are famous. I read that you filled stadiums in Trottingham. Grandmaster Mel."

"Aye, that I did." Octavia didn't seem to care in the least. "Want a bite?" She gestured at the last doughnut. Vinyl shook her head.

"Why did you stop? You were quite celebrated, from what I read. You wouldn't have to live in this... part of Canterlot." Another pause.

"Well, love, ye don' look like the par'yin' type, and still went to the Twin." Octavia wiped the chocolate off her mouth with a hoof. "All's go' our reasons."

"Teach me!" Vinyl said, the words full of determination. Not an order. Rather a request from a pony that wouldn't take no for an answer.

"Err?" Octavia blinked.

"Teach me how to compose music the way you do," Vinyl looked her in the eye. ”I'm tired practicing in a closed room, without the faintest sound of music! I really want to learn to control the flow, as you did this morning."

"You?" Octavia narrowed an eye. "You want to become a DJ? Love, you saw what it was like in the Twin. And that's one o' the best clubs. Ye remember what ya thought when you heard the DJs? Others will think the same 'bou' ya. T’isn't ye'r world, princess."

Vinyl swallowed. For the first time it crossed her mind how mean her comments last night had been. Could she survive the criticism of others? It wouldn't be just a few tsks from her tutors, ponies would actually talk back, maybe even whistle or shout.

"Then, I want it to be!" Vinyl said, very much surprising herself. Was this what it meant, being an adult? "If it can be taught, I will learn it. I don't care if I have to get my hooves dirty!"

"Know what?" The earth pony brushed the table clean with a hoof. "Flip a coin. If it lands as I want, I'll teach ya. If not, you leave. Deal?"

The thought was outrageous! It was insulting even! How could anypony base such an important decision on a coin toss?! They were talking about a life-changing event here! Could Octavia fathom what it had taken Vinyl to come here and ask this? With the power and resources under her command she wouldn't have to do so. She could simply send one of her servants hire Octavia and bring her to the manor. Maybe it would be better to do just that?

Vinyl looked at Octavia. The earth pony was staring at her, expectantly. So different from the tutors the unicorn had.

"What will it be, love?" Octavia pressured.

Oh, for stars' sake! Vinyl levitated a ten bit coin and flipped it in the air. Let's see what happens...

Author's Note

Next chapter: Take Two

5. Take Two

Heads? No, tails. No, heads! Vinyl focused on the coin as it spun in the air. She could easily use her magic to have it land any way she wanted. It was foal's play for a unicorn. Apparently, Octavia was aware, else she would have mentioned her choice in advance. Ultimately, the coin ended up being heads.

That's good, right? Vinyl looked at the grey mare. No visible reaction. It had to be good! I didn't come all this way for a refusal!

"Tell you what," Octavia began slowly. Stars! She's going to say no! She's using the slow hesitant voice. Whenever mother uses that it always means no. I'm positive she's trying to think up an explanation to cushion the pain. Mother always does that too.

"I'll do anything!" Vinyl interrupted. This was extremely unbecoming, but it had to work — it was the one constant in literature. "Just give me a chance!" Maybe this was a bit overkill, but Vinyl wanted to be certain.

"Hmm." Octavia looked at her with a mixture of pity and doubt. She's going to refuse, I know it Vinyl swallowed. She really is! "Sure 'bout that, love? Some things ya can't learn."

"There's nothing I couldn't learn." Vinyl wasn't backing down, especially since what she said was mostly true. Languages, etiquette, fencing, the dozens of boring subjects her parents had subjected her to, she had learned them all. How hard could this be? "I have assisted in conducting an orchestra at the age of—"

"Bloody marvelous," Octavia cut her off. "There'll be time for playin'. Before that, 'ere's something else ya 'ave to learn."

"What?" Vinyl asked eagerly.

"Listenin', love." Octavia smiled. "Ready for a repeat of last night?"

Oh,that kind of listening. It was definitely going to be unpleasant. Vinyl already felt like biting her lip. When she had said 'anything' she had referred to anything music related, not having to sit through musical torture yet again. She was certain she knew more music theory than the entire club combined, Octavia included.

"Is that truly necessary?" Vinyl asked, trying to hide her disappointment. "I doubt..." A single look from Octavia made the unicorn pause and look down. I better not push my luck, she thought. Less than a minute ago she had assured the earth pony she was willing to do anything. Questioning Octavia now would make her quite the hypocrite.

"What was that yer aunt said?" Octavia asked, the most serious expression on face.

Damn! How did she remember? She's probably already regretting having to teach me. Quickly, I must think of something before she changes her mind, something to impress her.

"After the way I behaved yesterday, I doubt I would be welcome there." Vinyl attempted to change the focus of the conversation. "Especially that pegasus."

"That's why, love," Octavia nodded. "Before gettin' to play you need to lis'n. An' not 'at snobby way ye'r used to. Really lis'n, like part of the crowd. Also you need ta speak right. Bein' a unidoll is fine for tourists, none else."

Did she call me a unidoll? Vinyl felt herself blush. Spicy language was something she was going to have to get used to as well. That might turn out a slight problem. Such behaviour was strictly forbidden at her mansion. The only time Vinyl had heard anything of the sort was at one of her cousin's parties. If rumours were to be believed, he invited flankdancers on a weekly basis. On second thought, going to him for any sort of help was a bad idea.

"One other thin'," Octavia took the bit piece from the table and tossed it back to Vinyl. "Make that two. Ya neva eva use real names. Me, I'm Mel, y'er Princess."

"Perfectly understood." Vinyl nodded. It made sense, although she would have preferred something different than 'Princess' — that felt a bit too close to home. "And the second thing?"

"'member what 'appened last night?" The earth pony looked her straight in the eye. "There’ll be more stallions like that. If anypony comes at ya, I'll kick the josser's bloody teeth out. If ya start trouble, mind, y'er on ya own. Understand the difference, love?"

Vinyl didn't, but nodded all the same. The events of the previous night were not her fault. Granted, she might have been slightly harsh in her comments, but she was only saying the truth. It was the pegasus that had overreacted, and violently at that!

As long as I agree with everything, everything should be fine. Maybe I should tone the sarcasm down a bit. It isn't something those ponies would notice anyway.

"One last thin'.” Octavia had her serious face on.”No tail flicks, no winkin', no arse shaking, and bloody well not no muzzling," she said flatly, making Vinyl's face turn a scarlet shade of pink. "Pre'y thing like you, a real colt magnet, ya is. Some will act sloppy, some will act nice, some will act 'eroic. It's all a bloody act. Seen innocent things like you get it bad. 'member — no prince will come gallopin' in a club."

You don't have to tell me. As if a noble would come to this part of town, let alone in a lowly nightclub.

It took about ten minutes for Octavia to get ready. If it had been up to Vinyl, she would have taken an hour and half at the very least. The earth pony didn't seem to care about appearances — a one-minute shower, a quick mane brush, while still wet, and off they were off. Along the way, Vinyl made a few attempts to get a better understanding of DJing, but no matter what question she asked, the answer was always the same — "just lis'nin' today, love". Whatever learning method Octavia was about to use, it was vastly different from anything Vinyl had experienced before.

The sun was still up when they arrived at the Lunar Twin. A new bouncer was guarding the entrance — a scary looking brown earth pony. Despite herself, Vinyl couldn't stop staring at the many brands the stallion had all over his coat. There had to be dozens of them, each carefully burned into his skin. The practice was barbaric, and yet a small part of Vinyl wondered whether or not to get one done herself. Her parents would go absolutely insane if she did, yet it would look so cool.

"Who's the uniflank?" The bouncer smirked, his voice gravely.

"She's with me, Patches," Octavia said, barely paying any attention. "Be a lad and le' us in, a'righ'?"

“Hmmm,” he replied, carefully eyeing Vinyl.

Honestly! You can let in the scum of Equestria, but I, for some reason, can't pass? Vinyl felt slightly annoyed. She could get in the palace easier than here. And this was just a rundown nightclub!

"You have a name?" the bouncer asked, eyes half closed. Was he drunk?

"Princess," Octavia said quickly, before Vinyl could open her mouth. "And don't get any ideas. She's beyond you, mate."

Patches snorted loudly, then spat on the ground so earnestly that Vinyl shivered in disgust. He did, however, wave his head indicating for them to go on in. Everything is fine, Vinyl said to herself. I'm ready for this. Nothing bad can happen. That turned out to be marginally true. With the corner of her eye, she noticed Patches staring at her behind. You creep, you are twice my age! Her tail froze in place.

"Take no notice, love," Octavia said calmly, noticing Vinyl picking up the pace. "Patches 'as a thing for pretty things like ya. 'e also knows not to mess, or it'll be 'is 'ide."

That didn't sound too reassuring. There's one creep I'll be avoiding in future. Vinyl followed Octavia through the door. At least the pegasus bouncer could think with the upper part of her body, unlike this pervert.

The bar was pretty much empty — only a few ponies preparing for the evening. Vinyl instantly recognized the waitress that had helped her last night, this time she was wearing a black leather saddle with shiny metal pins, as well as elements of black lace. Her mane was also different — a deep luminescent blue, very much like Luna's.

"Hey, Mel," the waitress greeted as she arranged bottles of alcohol on the shelves behind the bar. A long and laborious process that a unicorn could do in less than a minute using magic. "Sorry about not getting the job. I told boss he was crazy."

"Life is crazy, love," Octavia laughed. "Still got me two gigs per month. Good 'nough for me dent. Got me two weeks o' 'ay and tea. Life is grand."

Dent? Do you mean rent? Vinyl blinked. At times it was absolutely impossible to understand want the earth pony was saying. It was a mystery she managed to communicate at all.

"Ya 'member Princess 'ere?" Octavia nudged Vinyl. Not knowing what to do, the unicorn nodded tensely, muttering something of a greeting.

"Difficult not to." The waitress smiled with understanding. "Was the talk of the night. You should have seen Fire when he got drunk. Started crying at the bar. Went on and on about how 'a princess entered the Twin and he cast her out'. Shed a tear for you as well. Only one, though."

"That josser," Octavia snorted. "Still chasin' young tail, eh? Well, if 'e..." her voice trailed off, as she glanced at Vinyl. "Anyway. Princess, this 'ere's Astra — one o' the Twin's four stars."

"A star?" Vinyl took a step back. Is everypony a celebrity here? "My apologies, I didn't realize you were famous," she said tensely. For a moment everypony in the room stopped what they were doing and stared at her. Vinyl swallowed. Less than minute and she already was in trouble.

"Oh, why aren't you a stallion?" The waitress laughed. "You're just too much for this place. Can we keep her, Mel?" The question caused blood to rush to Vinyl's face. "Relax. That's just what they call the staff here, sweetie," she explained, clearly enjoying every moment of the unicorn's embarrassment. "Like in the tale — the four stars that helped—"

"Nightmare Moon escape," Vinyl finished the sentence.

"Oi!" Octavia's voice filled the club. It was a simple word, but enough to get the ponies back to doing their chores. "Astra, be a mate and 'elp dress Princess up ta fi' in. Something simple, mind."

Events had started speed up out of control again. It was as if a switch inside Vinyl flipped, tearing her out of reality. Her mind had given up trying to cope with all the new information being bombarded at her. Four stars, help dress up, something simple? She barely registered Astra taking her by the hoof and leading her into the small dressing room. Just like last night, Vinyl screamed voicelessly. She really didn't like the experience. It was only a few minutes later, after her mind had gotten used to the new environment, that Vinyl's grip over reality slowly returned.

Stars, almighty! She wanted to kick herself in the face. This was the second time in two days! What was wrong with her?!

“Don't worry about it too much,” Astra said out of nowhere.

“I beg your pardon?” Vinyl resisted the urge to shake her head. Did I miss something she said?

“You're zoning out.” The waitress smiled, going through the 'wardrobe' — a small rack of mismatched pieces of clothing that would serve better as Nightmare Night costumes. “It's normal. When I first came to Canterlot, I used to be like that a lot.” She took a midnight-blue vest and looked at it critically.

“Aren't you from Canterlot?” Vinyl tried her best to appear surprised. Of course, the waitress couldn't be from Canterlot — this was a unicorn city, as some of Vinyl's high-society acquaintances kept reminding her. Even the 'local' earth ponies and pegasi were descendants of transplants arrived several generations back.

“You're sweet.” Astra put the best aside and started searching through the rack again. “Born and bred in Dodge. Decided I needed a change, so I packed my things and left. I knew I had a great uncle somewhere here, so I decided to drop by.”

“That was quite brave of you.” Were you out of your mind? Just leaving your family like that to move to a foreign city?! Who knows what could have happened? It was one thing, spending the night out to spite your parents. Leaving one's entire life behind on a whim was… Vinyl couldn't even find words to describe it.

“You don't mean that, do you?” The earth pony turned around and looked her right in the eye. Guilt made Vinyl turn away. “It's alright. You're not the first unicorn to think that. At least you're nicer than most.” Something in her voice indicated that she wasn't being completely honest either. “Here, try these on.” She gave Vinyl the vest and a set of overhooves of the same colour.

Cotton fabric — the cheap kind that could be found in every common cornershop. Normally, Vinyl wouldn't even consider wearing something of the sort. Now, however, she had little choice in the matter. The price of learning. She reminded herself as she slowly started putting them on.

Itchy! Rough and itchy! It was as if she had put on a colony of ants. By the stars, I hope there are no fleas in these! She shivered at the thought. That would be embarrassing, not to mention it would merit a visit from the family physician.

“Everything alright?” Astra asked.

“They are just a bit tight,” Vinyl lied. “I need a few moments to get used, that's all.” She levitated the vest on. It was far less comfortable than the usual ones she usually wore, although magnitudes less itchy than the overhooves. Thank the stars for small blessings.

“The outfit suits you.” Astra smiled, a hint of envy in her voice. “Our very own albino Princess of the Night.” She tilted her head slightly. “You'll drive the stallions crazy.”

“I'm really only here for the music,” Vinyl protested. She was about to add that she would never frequent such a place otherwise, but stopped short of voicing that. Things were complicated as they were, without her insulting everypony she came across.

"Princess, you are a unicorn. Nopony will care what you are here for. Do you know when was the last time a unicorn set hoof here?" Astra waited expectantly.

Is this a test of some sort? Vinyl scratched her foreleg with her hoof. Surely there had to be other unicorn patrons, even if this was an earth pony neighbourhood. This was Canterlot, for star's sake! The aristocracy was snobby, without a doubt, but the middle and working classes had to be more understanding. Surely.

"A month ago?" Vinyl ventured a guess. No reaction. "Three months? Six months?"

Astra snorted, amused.

"One year?" Vinyl asked in shock.

"Over two years," the waitress corrected. "That's when Aurora quit. She was a waitress like myself. Only worked half-time, but did she bring in a crowd. During her shift the place was so packed that the music had to push and shove to get from one end of the room to the other. " Vinyl just stared at her. "Like it or not, those are the facts, princess. Stallions will see you as a fancy piece of tail, mares — as a pony out to steal their coltfriends, and nothing you say will convince anypony otherwise."

I just want to learn to make music, Vinyl thought. Why couldn't anypony understand that? This whole thing was starting to seem too bothersome to be worth the effort.

"I will be fine." The unicorn gritted her teeth. She looked at the other mate for support, but only saw doubt in her eyes. She thinks I'm just another rich filly here for the laughs. Well, I will prove her wrong! "Anything you would advise?"

"Where do I start?" Astra sighed. Surprising. Vinyl was sure the mare would say 'leave'. "Try to appear as if you're having a good time, not like you've been banished here."

"But I—" Vinyl began, only to have a hoof cover her mouth. The experience made her freeze. Had Astra actually touched her muzzle? With a hoof?!

"Sweetie, your expression is a cross between 'what have I done to deserve this' and 'is that crap on my hoof'," the waitress explained. "As long as you keep thinking that, you'll keep zoning out and getting in trouble." She removed her hoof from the unicorn's mouth. "Now go, have a blast!"

Have a blast, she says... Vinyl trotted into the main room of the club. Her every instinct urged her to take off the dreadful itchy outfit, then have an hour-long bath, and lots of mouthwash. Her determination prevented her from doing so. If she could endure a three-hour lesson with Perfect Tact, she could get through this.

"'ey, love," Octavia shouted from the bar. The entire place seemed pretty much set up, and the grey mare was taking advantage by enjoying a drink before the crowds poured in. "Ain't ya a bloomin' sight?"

The remark made Vinyl forget her discomfort. Maybe this wasn't going to be so bad, after all? Reaching Octavia, the unicorn took a seat next to her, then levitated a few bits on the counter. To her great surprise, the order came before she could even voice it — the same she had been served last night. Apparently Astra hadn't exaggerated — if the barpony could remember what her drink was, maybe she really had been the talk of the night?

"A few pointers." Octavia took a large gulp of her own drink. It had the unmistakable smell of alcohol. "T’night will be Dark Wave — dark, depressive, more melodic, an' with lyrics. Ice will be 'osting, so would be jolly."

Dark Wave? The term didn't mean a thing. I must appear as stupid as Octavia when we discussed classical music. First thing I'll do when I get home will be to have Glitter bring me everything on contemporary music genres. At present, her decade-long classical training meant absolutely nothing — in Octavia's world Vinyl was less than a foal, and she was going to have to catch up pretty quick.

"Don't bother with mistakes," Octavia went on. "Try to ge' the feel o' things. Lis'n only." She tapped her ear with a hoof.

Half a drink later the crowd started gathering. To Vinyl's surprise, they were quite different than last night. Nearly all were wearing dark clothes, their manes were deliberately messy and dyed black, and... was that mascara they were wearing? She turned towards Octavia in the hopes of learning more. Barely had she opened her mouth, however, than the grey mare shook her head in an adamant ‘no’.

Listening only, Vinyl reminded herself. The music was what she was here for, nothing else. The customers were distractions. Unfortunately for her, they were far too interesting to ignore. Their appearance was somewhat similar to the Melancholics of the Romantic Literary period, down to expressions and mannerisms. They also seemed younger than the ponies before, possibly Vinyl's age. Not that it mattered. Why would it, after all? And yet, she could help but stare, while trying not to.

"Nice horn." A lilac pegasus sat next to Vinyl. She was wearing a spidery outfit of black silk that covered her from head to hoof. She also had an alarmingly large number of silver accessories. "Is it real?"

The question almost made Vinyl choke on her drink.

"Err, yes, it is quite real." What kind of question is that?! Who in their right mind would even consider a fake horn?

The pegasus didn't seem fully convinced, simply ordering a drink and calling for somepony to join her at the bar. Not long after, another pony joined them, and another. Before Vinyl knew it, the entire space round the bar was so packed, that it was next to impossible to move. The constant shove of bodies, made her mane stand on end. Obviously, the concept of personal space was lacking in club culture.

"Here, Princess." Vinyl was relieved to hear the familiar voice of Astra. "Some cashews on the house," she placed a small bowl of nuts in front of her. The waitress did not say it out loud, but her look screamed 'have a good time, remember?'

Good time, Vinyl thought, levitating a few cashews to her mouth. She was quite tense, and only got more so as the night progressed. Maybe it's all in my mind? If I do something worthy of attention, maybe I would start being treated as one of them and my anxiety would subside?

"Welcome, Children of the Night," a voice suddenly filled the nightclub. "As the faces of the Moon change, so do we. The time of Fire is over. Now, Ice controls the music."

This one certainly sounded bounds better than the pegasus last night. Standing up, Vinyl tried to get a better look at him. Much to her disappointment, there were far too many ponies between her and the dance floor area. The only thing she could see, at this point, was that the host was blue and had wings.

"The Night of Dark Wave is upon us. Five brave bards have come to try and stir our very souls with their music. Will they be able to touch the sorrowful heart of the moon? Or will they be cast out never to return? You have come here to find out."

The presentation was pretty much the same as last night’s, only focusing on a different theme. Again, extremely cliche and overdramatic, but the audience did seem to enjoy it. Interesting, though Vinyl would still have preferred a few basic lessons on DJing, rather than being here. At least there were only five 'bards'. If each of them was given ten minutes to perform, the torment should be over in about an hour or so.

"But this is not all!" The pegasus' voice boomed. "Tonight is the most special of nights, for the one who will judge whether the music is worthy of the moon or not, is our very own Princess of the Night!"

A beam of light covered Vinyl. For a moment everything froze. All ponies had gone silent, staring at her in awe. No! This isn't happening! Vinyl fought to remain on her hooves. The shock had set her heart racing faster than a bag of sugar ever could.

"Will everypony please move so that our princess-unicorn could take her rightful place in front of the stage?" The blue pegasus rose towards the sealing.

Utterly horrified, Vinyl turned around, seeking Octavia for support. Please save me from this, she begged in desperation, fighting back tears.

"Enjoy the spotlight, love," Octavia gave her a strong shove forward. "And don't forget to smile."

Author's Note

Next chapter: What Goes Up

6. What Goes Up

Vinyl wanted to escape. As dozens of hooves pushed her towards the stage, she desperately sought a way out, yet there was none — her cries for help would be drowned by the noise, there were far too many ponies blocking the path to the exit for her to run, and her mind was too stressed out to concentrate on a spell of any sort.

Tears appeared in her eyes, hidden by the dim lights of the club. Stars, why?! Vinyl's heart was racing. How could you be so cruel, Octavia? I trusted you, and you threw me to the timberwolves! I never wanted the spotlight, I have enough of that back home! I just wanted to play some music... A tear rolled down her cheek. That too was ignored, as she finally reached the stage.

“Thank you for your presence, M’lady,” the blue pegasus said, offering a hoof. Only now did Vinyl notice that his coat wasn't blue at all — it was white, covered with layers upon layers of makeup. Every feather was individually dyed and coated in glitter, creating the illusion of being made of ice.

I can do anything, Vinyl said to herself and took Ice's hoof. The pegasus smiled and slowly descended to the dance floor. For some reason that felt reassuring. So there was somepony here to help her, after all.

“Tonight is your night, Princess,” he said into the mike, placing a wing over her. It was obvious it was all an act, but the sensation made her tense-up nonetheless. “Five have come before you,” gently he guided her around, “to seek the moon's favour. Only one thing stands in their path — you. Will you allow anything but the best music to slip past you?”

Silence filled the room. Is he expecting me to say something? Stars, he is! All of them are! And to reinforce the notion, Ice moved his head next to hers so she could talk into the mike. This was beyond embarrassing.

“My...” she began, her voice high and sharp. Her lower lip was trembling. I can't go through with this. Fear seeped in, along with doubt. “My omniaudient aunt will not have just any music invade her night!” Her back legs were shaking. Just like fire, she thought. The faster I go through it — the less it would hurt. “Anything less than perfection will be cast away like dispossessed, obscure words drowning in the sea of tranquility.”

The words made no sense whatsoever. If Vinyl's literature tutors could hear they would probably have a stroke. This was the most stupid, horrible attempt at white verse she had made her entire life… and by some miracle the crowd loved it. Were they even listening to what she was saying?

“Well said, unicorn-princess.” Ice smiled, moving away from her. “You heard it, everypony — the niece of Princess Luna herself will be the judge!”

What? How did I let that slip?” A new wave of fear passed through Vinyl. She wasn't supposed to say that. If anypony caught on there might be real trouble.

“And who are the five, I hear you ask, my Children of the Night,” the pegasus continued, rising once more to the air. “Coming to us from Cloudsdale, where she fills the clouds with sweet sorrow every other night, we have DJ Silhouette!”

A platinum-white pegasus made her way past Vinyl and onto the stage. Despite the impressive introduction she seemed about the same age as the unicorn, cocky and confident as any pegasus. Passing by, she winked to Vinyl, as if saying 'I got this'. Shortly after the music began. Slow and melodic, her sounds filled the newly-formed void of silence.

This is new, Vinyl thought. Nothing like last night's performance. The difference in quality was apparent. Vinyl could tell the DJ had no formal music training, and still the music was… pleasant. Slightly amateurish, naturally, but the good outweighed the bad by a large margin. Another pleasant surprise was the choice of 'instruments' — grand organ and violins among the standard techno samples. The beat was also relatively good, although it could have used a bit more variety. In its current state, repetitiveness started kicking in after a minute, putting all the effort to waste. The only saving grace was the chorus — a sampled version of A Night Thought by Words Worth. Apparently somepony liked the classics.

DJ Silhouette's performance ended before Vinyl could even notice. There were a number of things she would have done differently, several bad habits she would avoid, as well as a few rookie mistakes. The pegasus had handled the last quite well, quickly changing the rhythm, so as to disguise the mess up as part of the act. This would never have passed during a concert, but should I punish her for it?

“That certainly brought a whisper to my wings,” Ice said. “Now we see why the Cloudsdale clouds are so dark. But was it enough to impress our Princess?”

Vinyl felt a bolt pass through her as her name was mentioned. The moment of truth. Strictly speaking, the performance was slightly above average, in her view. Her tutors would have a field day pointing out the myriad of mistakes. Should she, though?

“I see hesitation,” the host said, politely urging Vinyl to make up her mind. “Does this mean it's over for DJ Silhouette? Or does the moon approve?” Quickly, Vinyl nodded. It was a pleasant piece, and there was more good than bad in the performance. She couldn't compare to Octavia, of course.

“There you have it, Children of the Night! DJ Silhouette has been deemed worthy and her music will fill the Twin every third day of the week for the next month. Give a loud stomp for DJ Silhouette!”

Was this it? Vinyl felt utmost relief, as if she had just dodged an arrow. Nothing bad had happened, nothing remotely harmful. The crowd continued stomping, as Ice went on to introduce the next DJ. For a moment everything almost felt normal.

"And now, fresh from Trottingham, the rookie that has caused a stir in two nations. Prepare to be enchanted by Wisp." Several screams came from the crowd. By the looks of it, the new Participant was quite well known by the mares. Vinyl quickly stopped thinking about herself, and turned her attention back to events around her.

By the stars! She almost whispered out loud. The performer was younger than her! No wonder he didn't have the DJ title in front of his name. Vinyl was even shocked he was allowed in the club at all! Like name, like nature, Wisp was barely larger than a schoolcolt, light-coated with the fairest blond mane Vinyl had ever seen — very much like a sunflower among the blackness of the club. And he has chosen to become a DJ?

"A ray of moonlight, Wisp is also a disciple of Grandmaster Mel," the pegasus host continued, "who happens to be with us here tonight!" A spotlight appeared around Octavia, who merely waved a hoof absentmindedly, while finishing her drink. "I know this is not your usual stage, Mel, but maybe the stars will convince you to play something after the moon has been appeased?"

Disciple? Vinyl blinked amid the stomping and cheers. Octavia had never said anything about having a disciple. Logically, it wasn't beyond the realm of possibility — she did have several active fan clubs in Trottingham. Learning of it in such circumstances, however, made Vinyl feel cold inside. An hour ago she felt special, unique in a sort of way. The feeling had dissipated, as she looked at the stallion in question.

"Could that be a yes?" Ice put his hoof to his ear theatrically.

"I'm too 'ot for ya, mate," Octavia shouted in reply. "Ya sure you or the moon can 'andle me?"

"Only the future will tell. For the present, let us hear Wisp weave his magic!"

Another round of stomping followed. Confidently, the yellow stallion made his way to the turntable. It wasn't just being cocky, not just an act — he honestly believed he was superior to everypony else. Vinyl had seen such attitude often enough to recognize it at first glance. It was something she tolerated, but didn't like, even less coming from an earth pony.

No wink, no smile to the crowd, Wisp started playing as if he owned the place... and his performance was bad. No, it was worse than bad — the spark of genius and infinite potential ruined by sloppiness. Vinyl felt herself cringe. Three intricate melodies, woven in one another on top of a beat that would make any first year conservatory student jealous, or they would if they weren't constantly three notes from being perfect. The amount of errors, while small, managed to ruin the whole experience for Vinyl. It was as if Wisp was relying on his genius to drag the music into the listener’s heart, despite its shortcomings. Precisely that made her feel annoyed.

You are born a prodigy and think any training is above you, don't you? Vinyl found herself frowning at the thought. So much like her cousin, only on a lesser scale. Performing anything with that attitude was something that really infuriated the unicorn. On couldn't simply expect the audience to crawl through a garden of thorns to taste a rose petal, no matter how scrumptious it might seem.

Another glaring mistake! That was not how one was supposed to switch rhythm. Wisp just dashed over it, hoping that everypony would be too dazzled to notice. If this was an audition, the instructors would walk out about now.

Concerned, Vinyl looked at Octavia. Even from this distance it was obvious the grey mare wasn’t impressed. No doubt she too could spot the mistakes. Unlike Vinyl, however, it didn't seem to be bothering her.

What should I do? The unicorn wondered. He is Octavia's disciple. Will it reflect negatively on me if I am too harsh on him? But I simply cannot in good conscience say he is good! His style is appealing! Not only isn't he familiar with music conventions, but is doing everything to go against them. It is true that geniuses make the rules so others can follow, but Wisp is not at that level. Not yet anyway.

"Isn't that something?" Ice announced the end of the piece. That's just perfect. Wisp is a crowd favourite as well... Vinyl sighed. This wasn't going to be pleasant one bit. "Even I felt a shard of my heart shatter while listening. Princess, what is your judgement?"

The hint was clear — Vinyl was supposed to nod and move on to the next performance, as if nothing had happened. It was the simplest thing to do... yet she couldn't. Determined, she shook her head. Absolute silence fell. Moments later Tartarus broke loose.

"What ya mean no, unislut?" Wisp yelled from the turntable. "Ya 'ave a 'ard time 'earing? Bet ya not be shakin' 'at 'ead when I break ye'r 'horn and shove it—"

Yells erupted before the earth pony could finish. Ponies everywhere were shouting, cursing, pushing one another violently. Vinyl felt petrified. Never before had she been so afraid for her life! A club brawl was erupting around her and there was nothing she could do! She was no fighter, despite all the fencing lessons.

"Go back to the moon, unidoll!" somepony yelled from the crowd, as a wave of bodies moved in Vinyl's direction.

Fights! They were actually starting to fight right in the club! Vinyl felt a pair of hooves latch on to her, moments before seeing a stallion nearby receive a kick in the muzzle. Something splattered on her shoulder... it was blood. A moment later everything went black.

* * *

"Mother, is it possible that I stop having music lessons?" Vinyl asked as breakfast was being served. Under normal circumstances she wouldn't dare speak in the dining room, but lately it had become the only time she actually saw her parents. It was often that some development or other at the palace would steal her mother away, occasionally for days at a time.

"A noble lady needs to have a grasp of such things," Dignity, Duchess of Canterlot, replied softly. Every sound that came out of her mouth was perfect, every movement measured. "It is understandable that your lessons might seem as somewhat of a burden, but you have to see them through."

"I understand, mother." Vinyl sighed mentally. Her mother would never raise voice or hoof, yet she always made it clear when something was an order. What she meant to say was 'quiet, Vinyl. It is bad enough that your starmother gave you that name.'

"It is also alarming that you still haven't earned your cutie-mark." Her mother elevated her pitch a fraction, indicating disappointment. "I already had one at your age, mention nothing of your cousin. Appearances are important, my dear."

"Yes, mother." Vinyl looked at her plate. Berry soufflé with crepes de citron... again. Vinyl was starting to get bored of it. Unfortunately, until she got her own cutie-mark she couldn't choose her menu or order any of the servants — those were the household's rules. "Might you suggest an area to focus upon?"

A long pause ensued, ending with a smile on her mother's face. This was unexpected. It wasn't merely one of the Duchess' standard 'polite smiles', it was a true smile, one that Vinyl hadn't seen in years.

"Start with the area you least expect." There was the slightest note of sadness in Dignity's words. "That way you won't have any regrets."

"Very well, mother." Vinyl levitated her spoon towards the soufflé. "I shall start with music." That's definitely the least likely thing I'll be good at anyway...

* * *

Vinyl stirred. A sharp smell of smoke drilling its way into her nostrils and she didn't approve of it one bit. Filthy, disgusting habit! she thought, annoyed. Her first instinct was to call for Glitter. Her second — to find out what was going on; smoking wasn't allowed in her mansion.

"Hey, she just moved," a female voice said.

Slowly Vinyl opened her eyes. A bare ceiling, moldy patches all about, emerged above her. She seemed to be lying down on something soft and rather comfortable. Where was this place, though? Looking around there wasn't much better f furniture — just a simple couch, a water dispenser, and two ponies looking at her — an earth pony and a blue pegasus...

Stars! Vinyl shot to her hooves. The nightclub! The fight! A jolt of adrenaline filled her system, causing her body to start trembling.

"Easy, Princess." The pegasus tried to calm her down, his attempt to place a wing on her only made Vinyl pull a step away. "Everything is fine."

"The fight, the yells..." Images started pouring into her mind. "Wisp shouted, and then the blood—" she looked at her shoulder. There was no trace of blood. Her coat had been cleaned, and her costume promptly removed.

"It's over." Ice lit a cigarette. "It did get slightly wild for a while, but all is over now. Mel stepped in and did a piece of her own. That seemed to calm things enough. Wisp won't be visiting anytime soon, though, I can tell you that."

That didn't sound good at all. I got him kicked out... I should have just played along, instead I got him kicked out. He probably hates me now. They all probably hate me. And Octavia...

"Where is Octavia?" Vinyl asked suddenly coming to the realization.

The ponies looked at one another. This was never a good sign.

"She left a few hours ago," Astra said, moving closer to Vinyl. "She's got a few interviews she has to go to this week, so she couldn't hang around."

"No..." Vinyl felt her heart sink. It was clear — the earth pony had left her, and all because of one stupid, senseless, foolish mistake brought on by Vinyl's sense of self-righteousness. "I will pay for the damages to the club," she said quietly.

"Sweetie, these things happen." Astra placed a hoof on Vinyl's shoulder. "It's not the first time that—"

"And any potential loss of profit." The unicorn didn't let herself be interrupted. "Would ten thousand bits suffice?" She looked at the pegasus, who just blinked not expecting such a reaction.

"Ice, tell her!" Astra pleaded. "Wisp is an idiot that has done the same in five clubs so far." The waitress turned once more towards Vinyl. "The mares love him for his looks, his partying and his accent, but nothing more. The only reason he came here was because he heard Mel had been turned down. Besides, word of this night will rake in customers for weeks to come. You can't get better advertising if you paid!"

"Twenty thousand," Vinyl said firmly. 'When hurt put up a facade of marble', her mother had said once. And at the moment Vinyl hurtled a lot. "I'll have them brought here by the end of the day. There will be somepony here to accept them, I trust?"

No answer. Both ponies stared at her. Her expression, her voice, her entire attitude had completely changed. It was not a tourist standing in front of them now, but a true lady in the very literal sense of the word.

"There will be, I trust?" Vinyl repeated the question.

"Uh, yes." The pegasus adjusted to the change. "Yes. Boss should be here in a few hours. I'll leave him a note explaining everything." He paused for a moment. "Your scarf is here somewhere. I'll find it, then walk you to your place."

"That wouldn't be necessary," Vinyl sad sharply. She had to appear distant and in control. In truth, however, she very much wanted him to escort her… she needed somepony to do so. Not because she was afraid, but because she wanted to know somepony was there for her. 'No prince would come galloping into a nightclub,' Octavia had said. Vinyl knew it to be true, but right now Ice was the next best thing.

"Princess, it's five in the morning!" he insisted. "I won't just let you—"

"Take the hint, Ice." Astra stepped in. "Besides you've been up for the last twenty hours. Go home, get some rest. I will make sure that Princess if fine. Deal?"

A simple question for such a complicated situation. Vinyl felt like galloping out of there this instant. She didn't care what they decided, as long as they did it quickly. Alone, escorted, it really didn't matter. Right now she only wanted to go home. Ice understood it, of course. Hesitating a few seconds longer, he said something along the lines that Vinyl should be careful, and left the room.

I messed up, Vinyl thought. I really messed up... She could have been herself and refused to participate in the event, or she could have become part of the act. Either would have worked. The evening would have come to its natural conclusion.

"Come on, Princess," Astra said quietly. "Let's go."

They left by the back entrance. Vinyl was great fun she didn't have to see the main room again. The less things reminded her of what had passed — the better. The night seemed rather fresh, mixed with the faint smell of ozone. Quite fitting that Canterlot Weather Central had planned for a downpour about now. With luck it would start before Vinyl reached the manor. Oh, how she begged for a storm — in the rain nopony could see her cry.

Forty minutes of silence brought them to the city centre, disturbed only by the sound of hooves. All that time Astra didn't say a word, just walking by Vinyl quietly. The unicorn wanted to thank her, yet didn't. The fear that a single crack of emotion would shatter her entire facade kept her distant.

"This would do, Astra." Vinyl suddenly stopped. "I shall proceed on my own from here. Thank you kindly for you care and concern."

"Are you sure? The weather ponies have planned a big one for six. Listen, I know what you're going through, and I do want to get you safely to your place. You shouldn't be in the rain in your state."

"Your concern is noted, but I will be home long before it starts," Vinyl lied. You don't know how I feel in the least! You are saying that to make me feel better, and failing miserably at that. "Please take care of yourself."

The earth pony should have protested. Vinyl hoped she would. Unfortunately, Astra only nodded and went on her way without another word. Was that how things worked in the real world? Being seen as special her entire life, Vinyl was used to ponies taking care of her despite her complaints. She couldn't remember how often she had screamed at her governess to leave her alone, when Vinyl had been sick or hurt, yet Presence never had. Despite everything, the mare had always nurtured Vinyl back to health.

"I really am a spoilt brat," Vinyl whispered, standing alone in the street. Not too long after, thunder sounded. The Canterlot storm had begun.

* * *

Half the lights were lit at Eastrise manor. The fact the Duchess' daughter had spent the night out had caused significant alarm among the household. The guards had been alerted, of course, as well as the most of the servants. Chef Gustave had even given strict instructions to be woken up the instant the young miss returned, so he could prepare one of her favourite dishes. And just to be doubly sure, a whole tray of iced treats had been prepared and placed in the kitchen's fridge.

Lanterns were placed at the main entrance, going on up to the main gate, should her ladyship return before dawn. However, that was not the path Vinyl took. Instead, she chose to levitate herself above the gate and proceed directly towards the servants’ entrance. Nopony would expect her to come from there, so hopefully all of them would stay asleep. Drenched and shivering, the unicorn silently approached the door. It was small, common, a quarter of the front door’s size, and, fortunately for her — unlocked. Vinyl had known for some time that some of the older servants used to secretly sneak out at various times of the day to chew tobacco. The practice was frowned upon, but tolerated as long as it was kept discreet.

"Your ladyship?" The door suddenly opened and Glitter stepped outside. "Miss Presence has been worried sick about you. Are you all right?"

All right? Vinyl could laugh if she weren't in so much pain right now. All she wanted was to close herself in her room and stay there until the last few days became a long forgotten memory.

"No, Glitter, all is not," she said, still trying to keep appearances. "In fact it's utterly—" To her great surprise, before she could finish, the maid approached and out of nowhere gave her a hug. This had never happened before.

Why am I crying? Vinyl asked herself, as tears began streaming down her cheeks once more. It's all in the past. I let it all out in the storm. There is no reason for me to keep crying! Then why am I...

And all that time, Glitter didn't say a word. The maid continued holding Vinyl until the young lady was too weak to cry anymore.

Author's Note

Next chapter: Distance

7. Distance

Noon came quickly. Vinyl's emotional exhaustion had caused her to collapse the moment she had felt the bed — Glitter's bed, that is. Too ashamed, the young Lady had chosen to spend the morning in the servant's quarters. The room was small compared to her own, but after what she had experienced the last two days, more than adequate. At the very least it was clean and tidy, although there still was a sink in the corner.

Waking up felt comfortable, although slightly strange. The first thing Vinyl saw the moment she opened her eyes was a rather large silver tray carefully placed on two wooden stools next to the bed. It was sweet and silly at the same time. Despite everything, Vinyl allowed herself a smile. Apparently, the household was pretending to have no knowledge of her whereabouts, and yet there was a tray with freshly made lunch, complete with silverware and crystal bowls, awaiting her. Thank the stars for small blessings! Vinyl got out of bed. Her neck and back felt sore. On reflection, it might not have been a good idea to spend the morning in the rain. Knowing her luck, she'd probably catch a cold by evening.

"Glitter." Vinyl levitated an apple piece to her mouth. "I know you are outside the door."

The door immediately swung open and a very concerned Glitter stepped in.

"Forgive me, Lady Vinyl," the maid started apologetically, "I didn't wish to wake you. I—"

"You are always in front of my door, Glitter." Vinyl added with something akin to a chuckle. Should I thank her for yesterday? It is the proper thing to do, even if she is my personal maid. No, maybe later... and somewhere more private. Should I tell her to be discreet about the whole thing? Best I don't. Not that it would matter at this point.

"Miss Presence has inquired about your day, Lady Vinyl." Glitter approached. "In light of your weakened condition she would also like to know whether to cancel your music and fencing lessons."

Weakened condition? Vinyl narrowed an eye. What mess have you gotten me into, Glitter? levitating a napkin to her mouth, she took a final glance at the food on the tray, in case there was something utterly irresistible, then stood up. This is going to be one of those days again...

"I already informed Miss Presence that you came home with a high fever late last night," the maid quickly added. "Your personal physician awaits you. In the case you wish to cancel your lessons, I am to—"

"Glitter." Vinyl stopped her. Was it possible her main had shown initiative? "What exactly happened last night?" She waited expectantly. For several seconds her servant didn't say a word, looking down at the floor. A polite cough from Vinyl urged her to speak.

"Your Ladyship came with a severe case of cold and—" Glitter managed to say, before being interrupted again.

"What really happened?" Vinyl clarified.

An uncomfortable question without a doubt. Yet for some reason it was making Glitter far more nervous than she should be. Taking a deep breath, the maid began.

"Your Ladyship was slightly distraught," she said before pausing. Slightly distraught. I have to remember that phrase, Vinyl considered. "Something must have gone... less than favorably. I took your Ladyship in and tended to her until sunrise, at which point—"

"I fell asleep," Vinyl finished the sentence. "Inform my governess that my schedule shall remain as planned. Now I'm going to have a bath, followed by a check up by my physician. After I am done with my lessons, however, I would like to have a talk with you in my room." At that Glitter swallowed. "Oh, and have twenty thousand bits delivered to the owner of the Lunar Twin nightclub."

"Lunar Twin, Lady Vinyl?" The servant blinked.

"It seems to be quite popular, so it shouldn't be too difficult to find.” Vinyl left the room without further explanation.

Getting back to her daily routine was what she needed. Some music, some fencing, some art... She could probably catch up on the pile of scrolls sent by her parents. There was the faint possibility that they were alarmed enough by the last few days' events to rush back home, though that was unlikely. Vinyl could just as well expect mules to sprout wings.

The bath was short, but pleasant, and was followed by a full medical check up. Vinyl disliked how the physician continued to treat her as a filly. Just because he had been taking care of her health for the last fifteen years wasn't a reason for him to address her as 'Vinsy'. Thank you for surrounding me with boredom, mother. I had almost forgotten how thrilling this could be — almost as much as watching sunlight move.

A strenuous inspection of the ears, mouth and throat, followed by the obligatory hoof examination. Sometimes Vinyl wasn't sure in which century the physician was born. Hoof infection, although painful, had long stopped being considered a serious matter. And it was not as she would 'step on any rusty nails' while walking the 'wretched country roads' of Canterlot. To Vinyl's relief, the check up also revealed she didn't have fleas. That was a good thing.

Time ticked on slowly. How was I ever able to survive all this waste of time? Vinyl wondered as she was having her mane done. Even the simplest style had taken half an hour. And to think the entire process would be repeated after her fencing practice. A rebellious thought popped in her mind — to request her mane be dyed black — but was quickly discarded. Doing so would cause too much of a shock. Besides, she would probably look foolish anyway.

Ten past two. Vinyl's room seemed like a monstrous waste of space. Never before had she noticed how large it actually was... never before did she have anything to compare it with. The entire Lunar Twin could probably fit inside and there would still be room to spare. Right now, though, the icy presence of her music tutors filled seventh eighths of the space.

"When you are ready, young miss," Perfect Tact said in her typical fashion. Always the same words, spoken in the same manner, as if the mare's own vocal cords were bound by music rules.

I might as well get this over with, Vinyl said to herself and started. Double flick, beat three...

What exactly was Octavia's problem anyway? There was no reason for her to act the way she did. Vinyl had been nothing if not courteous. She had treated her to food, not once argued, followed the earth pony's orders to the letter. She could have at least remained to see if Vinyl was alright after the fight that had erupted into n the club!

Ten minutes. Move to beat four...

Just because Octavia was famous was no excuse for her to do as she pleased. Vinyl was by far more famous! Well, not more famous, but definitely more important! If Octavia had even an inkling of a suspicion of a hint who she was, she would probably be begging Vinyl for employment!

Increase the tempo. Hold. Decrease the tempo...

Maybe there was more to that, though? The DJ had saved Vinyl, and had done that on her own free will. She hadn't ask d, nor taken any reward... just some apples and a box of doughnuts. Stars know she could use the money — it wasn't like she had any other means of income. Curious why that was. Vinyl had seen her skill first hoof. Nightclubs should be fighting for Octavia, not turning her away.

Introduce instrument. Hold tempo... and finish

Vinyl was still thinking about the events surrounding Octavia when she finished her performance. Not once did she bother paying attention to her tutors. They would probably find faults in her performance anyway — they always did. Today, however, she was not going to give them the satisfaction of worrying about it. If they were upset, they could seek employment elsewhere.

"Vinyl," Perfect Tact said, causing Vinyl to look in her direction. The this was the first time her tutor had addressed her by her given name. "That was remarkable."

"Pardon me, Mz Tact?" This is a first.

"Didn't you notice, dear?" The mare pointed at the small table in the centre of the room. Vinyl looked in the direction. Everything seemed perfectly normal. Table, metronome, music score... Then, suddenly she noticed it — the metronome was still. In her hurry to get practice over with, she hadn't bothered touching it!

How did this happen? Vinyl wondered, as her governess escorted Perfect Tact and Flawless out of her room. To achieve near perfection with as little effort? This changed everything.

"Miss Presence," Vinyl said, starting the metronome, "is Glitter available?"

"As a matter of fact, she has just returned from your errand, young Miss," the governess said at the door’s threshold. "More important, your mother has sent several scrolls inquiring about your wellbeing. It would be—"

"Please send Glitter to my room." Vinyl went to her wardrobe. "Also cancel my fencing practice. I shall be going out, after all."

"But your condition!" The governess gasped in disbelief. "You were just recently feverish. And what about her Grace?"

"As you can see, I am perfectly fine, as my physician will attest to. As for my mother, I am confident you could come up with some reply that would be most satisfactory."

"You are being reckless, young miss." The disappointment was apparent. Alas for her, there was nothing Presence could actually do. In the absence of everypony else, Vinyl was the de facto Lady of the manor. "You might no longer be a filly, but you are not an a full adult either. Keeping your bed unslept in for three consecutive nights is most unbecoming. This is not you, young miss."

"Thank you for your concern," Vinyl replied flatly. She had no desire for another lecture. It was also getting a bit annoying how everypony claimed to know what she was supposed to be and how she was supposed to act.

Getting the hint, the governess nodded and with an audible "hmph" left the room. Finally! Now I can get something done! If Octavia was a genius, as Vinyl thought, it was natural that she would send away any wannabe DJ. One thing she would respect, however, was skill. Vinyl was going prove she had what it took, she was going to make the earth pony respect her!

A timid knock sounded on the door.

"May I enter, Lady—"

"Just come in, Glitter," Vinyl said, slightly irritated. "You don't need to ask for permission when I am the one who asked for you." Seriously! You act as if you are expecting to be let go any day now. "Also, what errand did you set off to do?" Surely, even you couldn't be so foolish.

The silence gave a far better answer than words ever could.

"You went to the Twin, didn't you?" Stars. And the staff at the nightclub thought I saw fragile. I can only imagine their reaction when you showed up.

"I thought it best not to trouble anypony else, Lady Vinyl." The reply was meek, as always. "Also your instructions were extremely clear. It was no trouble finding the club in question. I apologize if I caused you concern. I—" She stopped immediately, as Vinyl lifted a hoof in the air.

"What is the weather like?" the white unicorn asked.

"The weather, Lady Vinyl?" The maid blinked.

"The weather outside. Is it warm, cold, what?"

"It's slightly fresh, Lady Vinyl."

"Fresh..." Vinyl levitated a few blouses from the wardrobe. Something Cashmare would be nice, although not too flashy. Possibly a hat to match. "Is it still wet?" She asked while comparing two pieces of clothing.

"No, Lady Vinyl, the weather ponies have dried—"

"No need for boots, then." Vinyl decided on a thick cyan pullover and levitated the other back in the wardrobe. Cyan complimented her mane quite well. There was a moment's hesitation whether she should take a hat or not. Ultimately, Vinyl decided against it. She had come to like feeling the wind in her mane.

"Tell me, have you had lunch, Glitter?"

"Lunch, Lady—" A warning look made the maid stop. Obviously repeating the question had become old. "No, Lady Vinyl. I was about to just now, but Miss Presence told me you wished to see me urgently."

"In that case, let's go. Are you familiar with any adequate places in Canterlot?"

The place Glitter had chosen turned out to be anything but adequate. One look was enough to tell that only the richest of the rich went there to eat. Vinyl had even recognized Fancy Pants among the customers. Fortunately he hadn't noticed her, or things might had become awkward. It wasn't that Vinyl disliked the pony, he frequently visited the manor when her parents were home. Rather, it was his talent to attract attention that put her on guard. Instead, she had chosen to go to the one place she had become familiar with — Donut Joe's.

"Good day, Joe." Vinyl trotted almost casually to the counter. "Something light for me and..." She paused for a moment. What would Glitter like? It was almost shameful that she had no idea what her maid’s preferences were. Two years and Vinyl had never bothered to ask anything about her, not even once. "And something nice for my friend.” She glanced over to Glimmer. “Your choice."

"Anything for a regular," the stallion laughed and went to pick a selection.

"Lady Vinyl, it is hardly proper to—" Glitter began, but stopped, seeing Vinyl's forehoof rise up in the air again.

"Just Vinyl." She smiled. "Come on, let's sit somewhere."

Two days ago, Vinyl would have been horrified at the thought of sitting on a chair somepony other than herself had occupied. Now she couldn't care less. Thinking about it, it was unbelievable how spoilt she had been her entire life.

"So." Vinyl slid a hoof over the table, then looked at it. No crumbs. It was a pleasure to see that efforts were made to keep the peace clean. "Tell me about yourself."

"About myself?" Glitter moved slightly backwards at the question.

"Like, for example, why are you so afraid all the time? I know I certainly haven't complained about your work." Other than you bring boredom incarnated. Actually, that time I might have done you a favour, as far as my mother is concerned.

"I was not aware that I appeared as such, La—"

"Glitter," Vinyl sighed. "You have never caused a problem since joining the household. You spent the entire night waiting for me to get home. You helped me when I was not at my best. I honestly don't remember a single case of you not being there when I summoned you. So why are you so afraid?"

"I... I don't have any lineage, young miss," Glitter blurred it out in a single whisper. It was apparent it wasn't something she wanted to talk about, just as it was obvious that she wanted to share it with somepony. "I was... I am a charity hire..." She looked down at the table.

Silence. Thankfully, Pony Joe arrived just then, bringing them their order — a single vanilla doughnut for Vinyl and a tray of six adorned flavours for Glitter. Vinyl thanked him, then levitated a few bits his direction. All that time she was thinking about Glitter's words. 'Charity hire'... the maid might as well have an X branded on her forehead. No wonder the rest of the household treated her differently. The reason she had been hired, the only reason, was because she was an orphan. As far as Vinyl could remember, the practice had been originally started centuries ago by Princess Celestia, so as to help orphans in trouble. As expected, it had soon after been adopted by the aristocracy. Unfortunately, its significance had gradually changed, becoming an undesired obligation. It was clear why Glitter was constantly afraid — she could literally be thrown out at a moment's notice without reason or explanation. And while Vinyl wanted to believe her parents would never do something as appalling, the prospect was always there.

"I'll talk with Stoic," Vinyl said quietly. She no longer felt hungry. "I'll make sure I haven't gotten you in any sort of trouble."

"That would be most kind," Glitter replied, not touching her doughnuts either.

"Why didn't you ever say? You have been my maid for over two years."

"Not meaning to be rude, L... Vinyl, but you have always been distant."

"I have not!" Reserved possibly, but definitely not distant! Why, I have been talking to ponies incessantly every day since I was a filly. Surely, you are mistaken.

"You have," Glitter sighed heavily. "To the servants, to your tutors, to any guests that might visit, even to your parents. Even chef Gustave and Miss Presence have mentioned it on occasion." Vinyl just stared blankly, not knowing how to react. "It isn't that you do it on purpose. You are always very polite, you just are..."

"But surely somepony must have said something." Vinyl was grasping at straws. Her conscious mind couldn't accept what she was hearing.

"Vinyl, what is my cutie-mark?"

The question was unexpected. Vinyl's first reaction was to answer immediately. There was no way she couldn't know something as simple as that. The moment she thought about it, however, everything changed. What was Glitter's cutie-mark — the cutie-mark of a pony who had been by her bedside every waking hour, who had helped her choose her clothes, get dressed, and dozens of other chores? Was it possible that not once Vinyl had asked about it, that not once she had looked?

"A tray," the maid said, helpfully. "A common tray. Enough to get me selected to join your household."

"I never..." So this is the reason, is it? I am distanced, cold and everything else. All this time trying to impress others, and I've ended up worse than my useless cousin! At least he gets to have his fun. What do I have to show for my nastiness?

"You got into some trouble, yesterday, didn't you, Miss?" Glitter asked. Across her Vinyl nodded. "They mentioned as much at the nightclub. It might not be my place to give any suggestions, but ask more questions."

"Ask questions?" Now it was Vinyl's turn to be puzzled.

"Nothing is ever gained by guessing. If you want to know something — always ask directly. Usually the consequences are much better than trying to act on speculation."

"Do you know this for a fact?" Or are you giving empty advice like everypony else?

"I have been dumped twice as a result, Miss," Glitter smiled. This was the first time Vinyl had seen her today do so. It was almost if they were... acquaintances? Rather two ponies who've met for the first time. "I think I'll try the double chocolate." The maid levitated the doughnut to her mouth.

And maybe I'll go to Octavia and this time actually ask her what is actually going on.

Author's Note

Next chapter: Hope and Heartstrings

8. Hope and Heartstrings

"Bloody sauce!" Octavia's voice sounded behind the door. "Who the bloody piss is—" the door swung open violently, revealing the messiest mare Vinyl had seen in her life. For a moment she couldn't believe it was Octavia — the earth pony's mane was thick with sweat and reeking of cheap alcohol; bits if hay dangled from her fringe, falling over baggy bloodshot eyes.

"Oh, it's you." the earth pony let out a bitter sigh. "Ain't a good time, Princess," Octavia said with a yawn. Behind her, Vinyl caught a glimpse of somepony's hoof on the bed — a stallion's hoof. The realization made the unicorn's eyes widen. "Ya, ya, I 'ayed a stallion," Octavia said casually, causing Vinyl to blush. "'ardly any good, mind. Was like a bloody colt — fi'teen minutes and out like a light."

"That's... err, very descriptive," Vinyl managed to say. She could feel blood rushing all the way to the ears. Merciful stars! She is wilder than my cousin! And to think I spent a night sleeping in that... bed...

"What ya need, Princess?" Octavia glared at her, annoyed. "I bloody well like to 'ave some breakfast. Maybe try for round two with twinkle 'ooves, if 'e ever stops sleepin'."

Your game is so obvious, Octavia. You are trying to make uncomfortable enough to leave. Well, you have succeeded in the former, but I am not going!

"I would like to have a word with you about something." Despite the discomfort, there was no hesitation in Vinyl's voice. This was a lady talking now, a lady that was used to have her demands met.

"Look, if it's 'bout last ni'ht, I warned ya." Octavia's expression seemed unchanged, but Vinyl could tell the earth mare was on the defensive. "Made sure ya were a'right, di'n't I? Just 'ad to go a bit—"

"That's a lie and you know it," Vinyl cut her off. Her tone's unnatural calmness made the other close her mouth. "That is not what I wished to talk to you about. I want to know the reason you don't teach ponies anymore."

"Just that?" Octavia tried to shrug it off. Her ears, however, betrayed how tense the topic made her feel. "Why not spill me life's story while I'm at it?"

"That is for you to decide." Keep on topic, Vinyl. Don't let her distract you with sarcasm or intimidation.

"Ya think ya're so smart, but you don't know a bloody thin', Princess!"

"Precisely why I'm asking." Vinyl held her ground. "And I can be just as stubborn as you on the matter."

For several seconds the mares kept on staring at each other. Vinyl’s pursed her lips, determined to get an answer, while Octavia narrowed her eyes, determined not to give it. Neither was prepared to back down, neither willing to admit defeat. Ironically it was the stallion that made the decision for them. Stirring in the background, he caused Octavia to turn around and look. Would he to wake, he would get out of bed and support her, winning the silent argument. Alas, he only turned to the other side and went back to sleep. The earth mare's uncertainty on the matter had been shown — she had lost, and Vinyl knew it.

"Ya buyin' food, righ'?" Octavia glanced at her, face still pointing towards the sleeping stallion. Vinyl nodded. "Bloody brilliant. Give me a moment to fix up, love."

The door closed, followed by the muffled sound of running water. Vinyl could only guess, that Octavia was doing her version of 'washing'. As if a few splashes could get the stench of alcohol out of her coat and mane. On second thought, maybe it was better that there was alcohol — at least it masked other potential smells.

It took Octavia less than a minute to 'fix up' — far too little, in Vinyl's view, and it showed. The earth pony looked as if she had literally put her head under the tap for a while, then passed a quick brush through her mane. Regardless of what happens, one of these days I'll drag you screaming and kicking to my manestyler for a proper makeover! You are a disgrace to mares walking like that!

"'ere we are, then." Octavia closed the door behind her. "Where ya reckon we get a bite?"

"What about..." Vinyl pointed at he door.

"Hmm?" The earth pony wondered. "Twinkle 'ooves?" she asked, almost laughing. "'e'll be fine. Left 'im a bowl o' 'ay on the table."

"That's not what..." Vinyl's world's trailed off. Best if I don't inquire. Her personal life is her own. I shouldn't judge simply because it's different from mine. Deep inside, though, she was screaming for details. In her experience such things only happened in novels.

Corn on the cob wasn't a particular favourite of Vinyl's. She had only tasted it once as a filly, and it had upset her stomach so much that she had been sick for over a week. Octavia, on the other hoof, seemed to relish it. A whiff was all it had taken for her to drag Vinyl to a street stall. Since she had promised, Vinyl had complied... and regretted it.

"Octavia, could you please at least not eat the cob?" the unicorn asked, looking nervously around. "It can't be good for your stomach. I can always buy more." I can buy the entire stall, for that matter. Just please don't eat like an animal!

"Done," Octavia said, much to Vinyl's relief, leaving the cob half uneaten. "So?" The earth pony asked once she had finished licking her teeth. "Still want to do this, love?"

"It was a lie wasn't it?" Vinyl got straight to the point. "The coin toss, the hesitation, even that whole thing about listening. You never intended to teach me, did you? What I want to know is why?"

"Ya're not for this life, love," came the curt response.

"Nothing you've done seems to make sense, Octavia Melody!" This was the first time Vinyl had used the earth pony's full name. She didn't have any intention of doing so, it just sort of slipped out. "You save me without knowing me, you perform the most beautiful composition I have ever heard for my birthday, then you leave me at the centre of a bar fight?"

"I'm a mare of many mysteries."

"There is a reason you don't want to take on 'disciples'. You were quite sympathetic towards me before I asked you to teach me. Otherwise you wouldn't have bothered saving me in the first place! And don't tell me you did it because both of us are notes! There were plenty of ponies with music related cutie-marks."

"You truly want to hear the reason, love?" The expression said it all — these were dangerous waters. If one was to quit now was the time. "No jossing, no lies, just the bloody truth?"

Vinyl nodded. Finally! And I thought I was being dramatic.

"I ne'er set off to become a DJ," Octavia began. Her voice was quiet, almost whispering. "Di'n't get me mark doing it either. Just 'appened to know Grandmaster Flower when the trance thing came 'ome. Every colt and filly tried copying back 'en. I just was be'er."

Just like in the Twin. Vinyl thought. Most of the ponies there were driven by raw enthusiasm. Likely their cutie-marks had nothing to do with music. And yet that hadn't stopped them; on the contrary, it had driven them to the point that they could actually gather a crowd with their music. Vinyl had achieved similar levels of expertise, as well, thanks to all her private lessons. She had a good grasp of literature, although the few stories she had attempted were bland, ill structured and naive; she could call herself adequate in fencing, although she would hardly win any competitions.

"So one day I gets me drunk and go take part in a street dance-off," the earth pony went on. "Flower was there, along with his mates. So like a foal I try to 'mpress 'im. 'stead of 'em standard tracks I use some of me own. And the bloody fool likes 'em!" She let out a deep sigh, covering her face with her hooves. "Nopony looked at the b-colt as I started DJing, 'eck the bloody b-colt stopped dancing and stared at me. And I wa' so drunk I thought it was bloody great!"

"Wasn't it?" Vinyl couldn't help herself from asking.

"'aven't ya been listenin' to a word I've been saying?" Octavia snapped at her. "What in 'I ne'er wanted to be a DJ' di'n't ya get?"

A feeling of sudden realization made Vinyl shudder as she finally understood. Seven years of fame — a third of Octavia's life — doing something she never wanted? That rang dangerously close to home. Octavia must have hated every moment of it. Well, possibly not hated, but not liked either. Is that the reason you resort to drinking and... other things?

"Couldn't you have said no?" Vinyl inquired, levitating the remnants of the cob into a nearby garbage can.

"Princess, if Grandmaster Flower says y'er good at DJ-ing, you bloody well nod and smile." Octavia returned to being her typical self. "Back 'ome t'is the same as Princess Celestia sayin' it."

Very interesting choice of words. Vinyl couldn't help but shuffle uneasily.

"A month and 'alf la'er and the clubs back 'ome were figh'in' to get me. An year — I was Grandmaster Mel." Octavia smacked her forehooves one against the other, making Vinyl jump startled. "Just like 'at. Know 'ow I got it? Some bigwig josser at a radio network reckoned there can't be just one title given, there 'ad to be more. DJ Flower was the only pony that bloody deserved it! I an' two others only got it because of 'variety' reasons. And once ye become a Grandmaster, there is no turning back." The pony frowned. "Ponies are expecting things from ya. Ya get contracts, schedules, bloody groupies everywhere ya go. All fun a' first, but after a few years it really gets old. Soon ye realize that ya spend more time worrying 'bout ya image than anything else. Ya take disciples 'cause ya're expected to. Ya train 'em, shout at 'em, clean after 'eir messes 'cause they reflect on you. And when on o' 'em ungrateful 'ay splitters runs off, the entire city gets filled with rumours who will outdo who. DJ-ing is a bloody arena, Princess! Ye saw what happened last ni'ht. Imagine if real bits were involved!"

Vinyl felt herself slowly becoming detached from reality. It was as if her brain once more wanted to shield her from real life, placing her in a dream-like state. The things Octavia is saying can't be real, a voice whispered inside her head. There's no reason to empathize, no reason to feel sympathy. Such things could never happen in Canterlot. Not with the Princesses nearby. It was so tempting to let herself doze off in a false sense of security and ignore everything she was hearing, yet this time Vinyl was having none of it! This was the real world and, like it or not, she was going to become part of it!

"Wisp was the one who ran off," the unicorn said, clearing her mind. Suddenly everything around her became crisp again — she was actually sitting at a bench, she could feel it, smell the air... along with traces of alcohol. Octavia was still reeking of the stuff!

"All of 'em ran away, love," Octavia smiled bitterly. "Wisp is just one o' 'em that think 'ey are be'er than me. Goes to e'ery club I've been to asking for a job. 'e knows nopony will offer 'im none, but 'e still tries. 'is parents 'ave the bits to pay, so no skin off 'is muzzle."

"Oh," Vinyl looked down. I guess I came across a bratty kid as well.

"Look, love, I quite like you. Ya may be lost like a bat in daylight, but ye know yer music. Think I would have stepped in, if ya was just a pretty flank?" At those words, Vinyl inevitably blushed a touch. "Although, as Astra said, if ya were a stallion... 'ay, I bet you'd be a thousand times be'er than Mr. quick back 'ome."

"So you won't teach me," Vinyl quickly moved to safer ground, returning to the original topic, "no matter what?"

"Sorry, love." Octavia shrugged. "There's nothing ya can offer. I know ya 'ave money, but 'at don't ma'er. I can live fine on 'ay for months, me."

So that was it — Vinyl couldn't ask for a more unambiguous rejection. She could understand Octavia's reasoning. It made perfect sense, yet she couldn't portend not to be disappointed. For the very first time in her life the unicorn experienced not receiving something she wanted, at that through no fault of her own. There was nothing she could do about it now — no gifts, promises or money would get Octavia to change her mind.

Dumped twice, was that so, Glitter? Vinyl fought back tears. Maybe you should have told me how you dealt with it. I'm not going to cry, though. It's not like this is anything serious. It isn't a breakup or anything... just a normal thing of life. I'll get used to it. Yet that was by far easier said than done. Logically, nothing should have changed. Octavia's response shouldn't have been of any significance. Vinyl had enough money to get any tutor in Equestria she wanted. She could even fly Grandmaster Flower straight from Trottingham to give her private lessons, should she decide. And yet, she felt like it wouldn't be the same.

"Well, it's getting a bit late for me." Vinyl forced a smile as she stood up. "They are probably getting worried back home, especially after I hadn't slept there for the last few days."

"Life is crazy, love." Octavia looked her in the eye. "Sometimes things just 'appen for no reason at all."

"Indeed, they do."

A few more words were exchanged, all meaningless trivialities. Octavia offered Vinyl to visit every now and again, the unicorn agreed to do just that. Neither really felt the urge to. If anything, they just wanted to part in good terms. All the time Vinyl felt empty inside. Naturally, her upbringing helped her cover it up.

I really hate this! Vinyl started trotting back home. She wasn't feeling scared, or depressed, she wasn't even feeling sad. Instead, she had the most unusual desire to break things for no apparent reason. Why must real life be so messy! Can't there be proper rules, at least for some of the things? She hit the ground loudly as she trotted, making ponies nearby stare at her. At this stage it didn't matter in the least.

The familiar group of colts were sitting about, as Vinyl passed through Canterlot's centre. Just you whistle, she thought, eyeing them. Just one of you dare whistle at me, and I'll bucking blind you! Unfortunately for her, none of them did. Either they had gotten used to her, or she appeared more frightening in her current state than she thought. Regardless, she was left without an excuse to go into a display of rage. Great! The one time I need them to do something inappropriate, and they stand there like idiots. Stallions! Utterly useless for anything!

The manor appeared before Vinyl could notice. The distance, seen as unbearably large just a few days ago, now had seemed a short stroll. Possibly it also helped that Vinyl had gotten familiar with the route, and wasn't constantly worried about getting her hooves dirty.

"Good evening, young miss," a large unicorn greated her at the entrance. Vinyl allowed herself to arch a brow — for Stoic himself to be here, the servants had to be worried indeed. Or maybe her mother had finally come home?

"Good evening, Stoic," she said in turn. "I take it my mother has returned?"

"Unfortunately, her Grace is still away, young miss." Stoic didn't bat an eye. As name, as nature, Vinyl suspected it would take three simultaneous earthquakes for him to react. "However, your governess has expressed concern regarding your current behaviour."

Perfect. Another pony to lecture me.

"It has also come to my attention, that you have been frequenting a place of ill repute," he went on. "Hardly becoming one such as yourself."

"I don't have time for this, Stoic." Vinyl trotted past. Any other time she would have listened, possibly felt guilty, but right now there was too much rage bottled up inside her to bother... even if it was coming from her mother's head butler. "If my cousin can get away with such behaviour, I don't see why my life should be of anypony's concern. Furthermore, if any of my parents feel that I am misbehaving in any fashion, they are more than welcome to tell me so in person!"

"Duly noted, young miss." Stoic nodded, his thoughts on the matter remaining unclear.

"Oh, and one final thing, Stoic," Vinyl stopped, a few yards into the manor. "It has come to my attention that Glitter is a charity hire. Why wasn't I informed on the matter?"

"It was not deemed necessary that you be bothered with such details, young miss." The answer came almost immediately. Oh, so mother told you to keep it from me, didn't she? "If she had been neglecting any of her duties, I shall immediately see to it that—"

"Her performance is above satisfactory," Vinyl interrupted. "And in future, I would appreciate that any decisions regarding her are made by none other than myself. Unless mother decides I no longer merit a personal maid."

"Duly noted, young miss." Nothing was capable of creating an impression on the head butler. "Would you have the kitchen start preparing dinner for you?"

"That sounds like a magnificent idea, Stoic." Vinyl continued down the hallway. "Have it brought to me in the bathroom."

"As you request, young miss."

That takes care of that! Vinyl thought. In truth she was barely keeping herself from shaking. Angry or not, talking back to Stoic wasn't something she dared do. For one thing, he had been longer in the manor than she had. Everypony in the household treated him with fear and respect. For another — Vinyl's father had once let it slip that Stoic was a former captain of the guard. Originally, he as to be given to Vinyl's cousin, but apparently other arrangements had been made.

Having a huge bathroom was the greatest gift of civilization. The more Vinyl learned of the world beyond her home, the more she got to appreciate that. Quite possibly she was overindulging, but could anypony blame her? Cleanliness aside, she felt it was one of the few places she could relax adequately.

"Your dinner, Lady Vinyl," a muffled voice came from beyond the door.

"Come in, Glitter," Vinyl said, her torso still submerged in water.

The maid entered, levitating a huge wooden platter not the room. As usual chef Gustave had outdone himself — there was enough food to feed a table of six, at least. Most of it would probably be town out after Vinyl finishes her ten bites. Quite a waste to be honest.

"Where would you like me to put it, Lady Vinyl?" Glitter asked, as if the earlier conversation at Donut Joe's had never happened.

"Place it on a stool, please," Vinyl ordered loudly, then used her magic to close the door. "Will you be in too much trouble if you stay a little while?" she asked. The hesitation on Glitter's face couldn't have been clearer if she had said it out loud. You are still scared, aren't you? "I spoke with Stoic that all future decisions regarding you are to be left to me alone." Vinyl tried to reassure her. "I really could use a friend right now. Please stay."

A single sigh filled the room, one Vinyl couldn't be happier for hearing. This was the moment of transformation — for the shortest periods of time they would no longer be lady and servant, but rather two mares.

"I take it didn't go well?" Glitter asked, placing the platter near the bathtub. "Did you get to the bottom of things, or did she give you the runaround?"

"No, I got to the root of it all." Vinyl felt a spark of anger emerging once more. "She won't teach me. She never intended to. I feel like such an idiot!" She hit the water with her hoof. "It was stupid to think she would. If she were interested at all, she would have offered. It was apparent I had money."

Glitter gave her a strange look, accompanied by a discreet cough.

"Well, it's true! There wasn't a pony in the club left unaware. Besides, I treated her to food twice. If for some reason she hadn't noticed before, she definitely did then." Vinyl levitated an full-wheat cracker covered with a thick layer of asparagus mousse to her mouth. "What I don't understand is, what did she mean that I don't have anything to offer?"

Glitter remained silent.

"Maybe I should have just told her who I am?" Vinyl continued, levitating another bite-sized hors d'oeuvre to her mouth. "I would have liked to see her reaction then! Grandmaster, my hoof!" She paused for a moment. "You know you are welcome to have a bite as well," Vinyl invited Glitter. "Gustave is extraordinarily good in his art." Yet another hors d'oeuvre floated to her mouth.

"Err, Lady Vinyl..."

"Mhm?" Vinyl chomped on an another piece of food. For some reason she was feeling particularly hungry.

"I've already tried it," Glitter said, with a tad of guilt. "Actually, most of the staff have."

This caused Vinyl to arch a brow. This was new. Yesterday and the day after, she would understand — she had spent the evenings out. It was normal for the staff to eat the food prepared for her. Today, though...

"Please don't tell anypony you know, but we have been doing it for years. Chef always feels unappreciated when he doesn't create a masterpiece..." A slight hesitation. "And to create a masterpiece he needs tasters. In your case, particularly, he has expressed the opinion that a pony of similar age should take the brunt of the testing... I mean tasting."

Vinyl blinked. "You have been eating the food prepared for me?" Vinyl managed to say.

"Yes... and it has been so very very much." Glitter couldn't help but wince slightly at the same youth. "After a while even chef's cuisine gets... too much."

For a short while, Vinyl remained speechless, then out off nowhere, she started laughing.

"Too much?" she barely managed to say. "His cuisine gets too much?" Why am I laughing? she wondered, unable to stop. There was nothing funny about the 'revelation', nothing funny at all... and yet. This week is so stupid!

"Lady Vinyl?" Glitter looked at her in alarm. "Lady Vinyl, are you alright?"

The only response that came was more laughter, accompanied by splashing and the waving of hoofs. This was the first time Vinyl had done that, stars, it was the first time she had laughed in the past three years.

"Lady Vinyl, please!" Glitter attempted to bring Vinyl back to her senses, but a treacherous chuckle forced her lips to curve, despite the efforts not to. "What would Miss Presence think if she heard?"

The laughter increased more and more for the next minute, before a lack of breath caused Vinyl to calm down again. Levitating a towel to her face, she brushed a few tears off her eyes, then leaned back in the bathtub.

"Well, that's another dream I'll never get a chance to achieve." Not that it was the first. I wanted to become an archeologist before I got my cutie-mark. so much for that happening. "I guess the stars wanted me to remain plain boring Lady Vinyl." She glanced at the food on her platter. Plenty remained, yet she no longer felt hungry.

"Vinyl..." Glitter said quietly. "Do you really want to become a DJ? Or was it just a cheap thrill for you?"

"Hmm?" Vinyl's ears perked up. "What are your talking about, Glitter?"

"If you are still serious, there might be a way..."

* * *

The way's name was Lyra Heartstrings, and she was unmistakably the most peculiar unicorn Vinyl had ever seen. She studied at Celestia's School for Gifted Unicorns, which meant she had to be part of the magic elite. At the same time she took classes in the Canterlot Conservatory, which was normal, having in mind her cutie-mark was a Lyra. What wasn't normal was the colour of her coat — it was fluorescent.

"Hey, there!" Lyra waved to Vinyl from the other side of the room. "Want to join me?"

Vinyl froze. This was embarrassing! She had been looking forward to this meeting ever since Glitter had told her of the mystical unicorn that knew everyone and everything regarding the Canterlot music scene. In fact, Vinyl had almost skipped breakfast out of fear to miss her. And now that she had actually got to see her, Vinyl had spent over a minute staring at her coat.

"Please." Lyra invited her again, smiling widely.

This is so improper. Vinyl levitated her doughnut tray and went to Lyra's table. This was not how she envisioned their introduction. Glitter had explained that Lyra was a regular at Donut Joe's — she had breakfast there every morning at eight. Originally, Vinyl had expected the place to be empty at this hour, allowing her to casually start a conversation on her terms. So much for that idea.

"I'm Lyra," the aquamarine unicorn said, way too joyfully for Vinyl's taste. "And I noticed you were staring at me?"

"Vinyl," the white unicorn said, trying to hide her blush. She had never felt so embarrassed her entire life! Not only had Lyra shouted through s full room of ponies to invite her over, but she had further accused Vinyl of staring! Those were not things that a cultured pony was supposed to do. If she wasn't so maddeningly cheerful, Vinyl would have outright ignored her.

"Very glad to meet you, Vinyl." Lyra levitated a piece of doughnut towards her.

At least she doesn't eat with her hooves, Vinyl thought. And was that a double chocolate supreme with sprinkles?

"I do apologise for the staring." Vinyl's voice was little more than a whisper. It didn't matter in the least that nopony appeared to be paying them any attention whatsoever. "It's just that a mutual friend said that you would be here, and I really wanted to be sure that I didn't miss—"

"You came here just to meet me?" Lyra's smile grew, as impossible as that seemed. "And who is this 'mutual' friend I have to thank?"

"Glitter."

"Glitter?!" Lyra nearly stood up, causing Vinyl to hide half of her face behind a hoof. What is it with this crazy unicorn? Must she be so intent on making a scene? "I haven't seen her in weeks! How is that filly?"

"Err, she is fine?" Vinyl really regretted there not being menus at the table. She could have really use one to hide behind.

"That's a relief." Lyra took another bite of her doughnut. "She used to be one crazy mare, let me tell you. The things she did back in the day. Of course, that changed once she started working for Duchess—"

"Shh!" Vinyl jumped, instinctively placing her hoof over Lyra's mouth. "Not so loud."

"Sorry." The aquamarine unicorn settled down, somewhat taken aback. "Didn't know it was such a big deal." She shrugged, then finished the last part of her dessert. "Besides it's not like she's seen... her..." she paused, awaiting Vinyl's reaction. Since nothing followed, she continued. "She's actually working for her daught—"

There was another pause, this time far more abrupt. Vinyl's self-preservation sense started to tingle — she knew what was about to happen now. As Lyra pointed a hoof at her face, preparing to scream her realization, Vinyl grabbed her, and as discretely as the situation would allow, dragged her out of the bakery.

"You are her!" Lyra hush-shouted as the two unicorns trotted along the street. "You are—"

"Don't say it," Vinyl said through her teeth, trying to appear as if nothing out of the ordinary was going on.

"Oh my gosh! I can't believe it!" The mare literally hopped beside Vinyl. "I've been asking Glitter to introduce me to you, but she always refused. And now you are here to see me? My strings, this morning's the best!"

Glitter, I honestly hope that this wasn't a prank on your part! You know I am not into humour, and if all this was some misguided attempt aimed at making me feel better, you and I are going to have words upon my return!

"I used to see you when you came to the palace with your mother," Lyra wouldn't stop. "You were so cute with your mane braided, and those night sky vests," she waved a hoof, nearly tripping in the process.

"Careful!" Vinyl raised her voice. She's a foal. I've come to ask a favour from a foal. "I've changed my style."

"I can see that. Suits you."

"Well, yes." The quicker I ask her, the quicker there's a chance that we move past this nonsense. "Listen, sorry for being so direct, but I was hoping you could help me with something. I have decided to pursue a career in music and—" No sooner had she said that, than Lyra suddenly stopped in place, as if hit by lightning. Vinyl followed suit. Oh dear. This didn't look right at all.

"You are asking me for help?" Lyra gesticulated as she spoke. "You?!"

Not sure what to make of it, Vinyl nodded.

"You are asking me to help you in something music related?" Lyra moved a step closer.

Once more Vinyl nodded.

"This is so great!" Lyra gave Vinyl a hug, much to Vinyl's annoyance. "I know just the place to start!"

This is just perfect. Vinyl rolled her eyes. Just. Perfect!

Author's Note

Next chapter: The Unconservative of the Conservatory

9. The Unconservative Of The Conservatory

"Are you being serious?" Vinyl barely managed to ask without losing her composure. Other phrases had passed her mind, but in light of recent events, she decided it was better to keep them to herself.

"What better place to talk about music than the Conservatory?" Lyra opened a window. "I have permission to use this whenever I wish. Neat, right?"

If there ever was a word that would be further from the truth "neat" was it. The place was an absolute mess, which was normal considering it was the attic. Instruments and old furniture cluttered the place, giving it more the appearance of a warehouse than a room. The only silver lining was immaculately cleanliness. If nothing else, Lyra had that going for her.

Vinyl glanced about. It was the larger instruments that seemed to be stored here — pianos, harps, drum sets, tubas, double basses, as well as one monstrosity which Vinyl couldn't identify.

"So, what's your thing?" Lyra went to be of the harps. "I'm pretty good with most strings." her magic caused several of the harp's strings to vibrate, while she pressed the pedals with her hooves. The melody was nice and refined, if not a bit mundane. Vinyl could find no fault in it, but then again, it wasn't something she would bother lasting, given the choice.

"Violins and the like are a bit tricky, but I really rock on drums!" She laughed. Somepony has a very high opinion of herself, Vinyl thought. "Want to have a go? Don't worry, ll be here to guide you. It'll be as easy as—"

"I don't think the instrument I'm interested in is here," Vinyl cut her off. It was extremely rude of her, but the chances of finding a turntable, here of all places, was practically nil.

"What then?" Lyra asked eagerly. "I'm passable in wind instruments, great in percussions." Lyra moved to a set of drums and did a quick beat. It was, as before, precise, elegant and boring.

"Actually..." Hesitation stepped in. They were in the Royal Canterlot Conservatory — the place where prodigies from all over Equestria gathered to further their excellence. Could Vinyl in all good consciousness ask what she was about to? She glanced at Lyra. The aquamarine unicorn was looking at her with baited breath. That only made Vinyl question herself further.

"Actually?" Lyra repeated, helpfully.

"Actually the instrument I am referring to is not purely classical." Vinyl felt embarrassment colour her cheeks as she spoke.

"Oh? Contemporary stuff?" Lyra tilted her head. Obviously Vinyl's state amused her. "You know that not all that of the students here are dried up snobs, right? Just because it's Canterlot, doesn't mean it's all candlelight and bow ties. There are cool ones, as well. For example," she levitated a pair of trumpets to either side of her," yours truly!" The trumpets nearly exploded in a cacophony of sounds and aether sparks.

The performance was not lost on Vinyl, at least to the extent that it replaced her embarrassment with confusion. Interesting to know that Glitter had such friends. This Lyra was a party-pony if there ever was one. Vinyl still remembered the insanity she had witnessed at one of the few 'evening parties' she had witnessed at her cousin's. Initially, she wasn't supposed to be there, yet her mother — swamped with work at the palace again — had decided to have Vinyl spend a few hours at the place. It was literally a minute's trot away, and her cousin could keep an eye on her, if nothing else. Vinyl had been fifteen at the time. It was then that she had witnessed the craziness the stallion was capable of, first hoof. Music, drinking, 'dancing' and more ponies than one thought capable of fitting in a single hall. If Lyra were older, she definitely would have been there.

"Pardon the question..." Vinyl carefully considered her words. "Did you happen to attend any of my cousin's soirees?"

"PB's parties?" Lyra beamed. "Why, I—"

"Thank you!" the white unicorn immediately stopped her. This was all she needed to know. "I apologize for wasting your time, Miss Heartstrings, "rather hurriedly, she trotted by her," but I believe it was a mistake to—"

Suddenly, Vinyl stopped mid-step. She could feel a hoof placed on her shoulder.

"Hey, don't be like that," Lyra kept her smile, but it had clearly lost most of its radiance. "I didn't mean to scare you and such. I'm just like this — terrible at first impressions. Usually it takes three or four for most to get used to me. I really did mean what I said, though. I am pretty good at teaching music, and I do know most musicians in Canterlot. I even know what your speciality is."

The last sounded intriguing enough, for Vinyl to reconsider. Maybe it was vanity talking, or maybe she really wanted to give Lyra a chance. Regardless, she turned around and nodded slightly. I'm actually curious what you have heard. My parents are too ashamed by my talent to mention it openly, and the only other who— Droplets of sweat appeared her face. Stars, it couldn't be!

"Lyra, what exactly have you heard about me?" Vinyl tried to sound calm, despite her pulse increasing three-fold. "Did Glitter say anything unusual?"

Yes, Glitter! It had to be her! By the stars, please, let it have been her!

"Glitter? No way." Lyra waved a hoof, amused. "Maestra Perfect Tact mentions it on occasion, especially when she wants to make us feel bad. 'Class, The Duchess' filly has a greater music since than all of you unfortunate misunderstandings combined!'" Lyra tried to impersonate the tutor.

The impersonation was rather bad, but Vinyl was hardly paying attention. All she could feel was relief.

"Oh," she said, smiling a fraction. "How very unprofessional of her." Thank the stars!

"Aaaanyway, what is the mysterious instrument you wanted my help with?" Lyra winked. "Nothing from the antique section, I hope?"

"Oh, absolutely not. Just a turntable."

A sudden silence filled the room.

"Say again?" Lyra leaned closer, invading Vinyl's personal space.

"A DJ turntable," she said clearly, moving slightly back.

"A DJ turntable?" Lyra asked accusingly. "You, Lady Vinyl, sole heiress of the Duchess of Canterlot, conductor genius, as the Maestra constantly keeps reminding us, are telling me that you wish to learn how to become a DJ?!"

The intonation... it was exactly like that of her grandmother when expressing extreme disapproval. Vinyl had heard it used five times, the last when she had been forced to explain that she had received a cutie-mark not related to aristocracy in any way whatsoever. If there was anything that could make her swallow in fear, that was it.

"Way to go, pone!" Without explanation, Lyra hugged her tightly. The experience was shocking enough that Vinyl found herself incapable of reacting. Locking itself away from reality, the only thing her mind focused on was What in Equestria is a 'pone'?! "I never took you for the type," Lyra continued, as she released her hold. "I suppose I expected something exotic, but this... this..." She waved her hooves about.

"And I would very much appreciate your discretion on the matter!"

"Oh." Lyra's enthusiasm faded a notch. "Your mother doesn't approve?" No answer followed. "Your parents don't approve?"

Vinyl looked about the attic uncomfortably.

"They don't know, do they?" A sly smile formed on Lyra's face.

"Look, this is going nowhere! I didn't wake up at half past five, nor did I suffer through humiliation at Joe's to have to explain myself to you!" Proper etiquette demanded that Vinyl not shout under any circumstances. Her anger, however, brought on by Lyra's behaviour, had dismantled her sense of etiquette completely. "The only reason I came to you was because Glitter has a high opinion of you for some reason."

"Hey, calm down, Vi. I was only trying to give you a cheer boost," the musician said apologetically. "Tartarus, I can't imagine what you are going through. My parents were ultra supportive, and they nearly kicked me out when I suggested quitting the S.G.U. to focus on music. As for you," she whistled, "it must take a lot of guts to do what you did."

Hardly. All the 'guts' involved were me going to a nightclub. Stars, I wish I could get any reaction from my mother.

"Just please tell me one thing." Lyra didn't have any intention of shutting up. "Why did you choose it? Frankly, I'm surprised you even know what a DJ is."

"I suppose it's hardly a secret," Vinyl said, but her glance continued screaming 'discreet' at Lyra. "A pony, by name of Octavia Melody, displayed one—"

"Octavia?" Lyra interrupted. There was more than surprise there. Traces of alarm could be sensed as well. "Mel? Earth mare, grey, talks in the thickest Trottingham accent this side of the sea?"

"I believe so, yes?"

"Vi..." Lyra sighed, shaking her head. "You're lucky to be in one piece."

Apparently, Lyra had a very different view of Octavia. Listening it was almost impossible to imagine that she was describing the same mare. According to Lyra, Octavia had come to Canterlot three months ago, and in that time she had managed to get herself arrested eight times. Some of those arrests had been a group thing — the result of club fights, which weren't so uncommon. Vinyl herself had witnessed how easy it was for things to spiral out of control. The remaining three, though, were far more serious. Two cases of body injuries — Octavia had nearly broken the jaw of a bar patron on one occasion, and cracked the horn of another. In both cases she had acted with reason, so no charges were brought up. The last arrest had been for singing drunk on top of the Royal Conservatory. The offense was quite serious, not to mention insanely dangerous, yet it managed to cause Vinyl to stifle a laugh. Imagining Octavia singing in a Trottingham accent alone must have been a sight for the ages.

So this is the reason clubs don't wish to hire you. With so many arrests, even skill wouldn't outweigh potential risks. Stars, the damages alone would probably be more than a club could gather in a week! A pity, though, for Octavia had talent in spades.

The conversation also revealed interesting things about Lyra herself. True, she was a party-pony, as Vinyl feared, but she was also a lot more. The term 'genius' came to mind — always active, constantly trying new things to get bored with. From what Vinyl had seen, that was the common factor with geniuses — they seemed to go struggle with constant boredom.

Magic, music and mayhem — that was the simplest way to describe Lyra. Interesting why Glitter hadn't mentioned it. Or maybe she had through that oh-so-subtle hint of hers. The strangest thing, though, was that Vinyl found the talk enjoyable. All the silly, trivial, things seemed amusing in a non-committal sort of way. She could actually say something without fear of being judged, shushed or criticized, not that she had much to say.

"Oh my strings! You are the unicorn that trashed the Twin?" Lyra grabbed Vinyl's hooves between her own. "Way to go, Vi!" She shouted, causing Vinyl to feel more than a little uncomfortable. "You're the Albino Princess! Strings and stars, you are famous! Well, at least ‘till the end of the week."

"I would prefer if I weren't," Vinyl grumbled, pulling her hooves back to herself.

"You have to admire the irony, though." It was as if Lyra hadn't heard her, losing herself in a world of her own. "They call you 'Princess'!" She doubled over laughing. "Princess!"

"Absolutely hilarious," the white unicorn said drily. "Originally, it was supposed to be a learning experience. Octavia told me that I need to learn to live the life before she would teach me anything. You 'ave to lis'n," she tried to imitate the earth pony's Trottingham accent. "And then I learn she never had any intention of teaching me at all!"

"Well, I warned you to stay away from her," Lyra shook her head, tsking mockingly. Indeed you did, less than an hour ago! Vinyl felt slightly annoyed. "I'm just messing with you." The musician nudged. "You sound nothing like her, by the way," she added, succeeding in making Vinyl pout. "Still, she was right about one thing — can't be a DJ without knowing the culture."

"So she was correct to take me to the Twin?" I'm getting mixed signals here. Is Octavia at fault, or isn't she?

"Yes and no," Lyra levitated herself above Vinyl. "If using a fire-bolt to light a candle is considered a solution, then she certainly was." The musician's horn flashed for a moment, causing a flurry of sparkles to fill the space of the room. "I, on the other hoof, would suggest a far gentler approach — parties."

The word made Vinyl cringe and turn pale the same time. Parties were definitely not something she enjoyed, even before all her unfortunate experiences. Having to be present at the dreadful soirees with her parents was bad enough.

"Oh, no, no need to worry!" Lyra levitated to the ground seeing Vinyl's reaction. "We'll start small. Just a friendly gathering of musicians at my place. Nothing as wild as what you've been through," she placed a hoof on Vinyl's shoulder," or PB's parties."

Why am I even considering this?! Vinyl struggled with herself. She is a party-mare! She is used to that sort if thing! If I go I know I'll regret it!

"It will be okay," Lyra encouraged. "You have to start trotting at some point. Come on, trust me on this."

A deep sigh filled the room. "I might as well," Vinyl said, defeated. She had already come this far, what were a few steps more?

* * *

"No!" Vinyl screamed in horror!

It wasn't possible for this to be true. There had to be some mistake, some explanation. For the third time she looked at her flank in the hope she had mistaken. The note was still there, mocking her, as it were.

"That is no way to behave, young miss," her governess said strictly. "What would her Grace think if she saw you in such a state?"

"But, Miss Presence, it... It..." Vinyl struggled to keep her tears from pouring down her face. "You must help me hide it! I don't even like music!"

"Hush, young miss." The governess levitated a hoofkerchief to the filly's face and gently brushed off the firming tears. "Life is a confusing thing — often things don't turn out as we expect them. The only thing we could do is drive the clear our minds of that confusion."

"Bu..but..."

"Of all the things you could have tried, you chose music," Presence went on. "Why is that? You know as well as I that nothing occurs by chance."

"I chose it, because mother told me to start with what I hated the most," the filly whimpered.

"Did you really?" The governess arched a brow. "If you hated it so much, young miss, why did you keep doing it in your spare time? You could have easily asked your tutors for additional lessons."

"I don't want more music lessons!" Vinyl stomped her hoof. "If it were my decision, and not mother's, I would have sent the tutors away years ago!"

"Precisely, young miss." The governess smiled, making Vinyl stare at her in amazement. "It is not music you hate, it is the tutoring. Possibly that is the reason your note is mirrored. You want your music to flow freely, not be caged by lessons."

The explanation didn't make much sense, but at least it put Vinyl's mind at ease. Maybe having a note for a cutie-mark wasn't that bad? It was even possible that her parents wouldn't be upset.

"Does that mean Ican stop having lessons now, Miss Presence?" she asked in hope.

"Sadly not, young miss." The governess levitated the hoofkerchief away. "As much as you dislike them, your lessons must continue. As my mother used to say — 'you must first learn the rules in order to go move beyond them'."

* * *

The sun had set when Vinyl woke up. Her first stint was to go back to sleep. It felt weird — knowing that the day had passed while she was sleeping. The unicorn remained still for a short while longer, contemplating as she stared at the ceiling. Eagerness mixed with fear of the unexpected. Lyra had assured her the event would be strictly casual, with only a small group of friends. Regardless, Vinyl felt she should make a good impression... and considering this wasn't a social event organized by the palace or her parents, this was going to be difficult. Usually, she would just follow her mother's instructions — every evening attire had always been previously decided upon, often made specially for the occasion. For this party Vinyl had all the freedom of choice in Equestria what to wear, and not a single clue who to copy.

"Glitter, do you have any—" she began out of habit, but abruptly stopped. This wasn't morning. Glitter was most probably tending to her duties, namely washing Vinyl's clothes by aether. At most, she would be resting in her quarters.

Well, I can certainly make a decision on my own! Vinyl got out of bed. My parents have been preparing me to enter the world of inter-species politics since I was seven. I am well versed in social, belief and geopolitical issues. There is no way that I cannot choose what to wear to a casual evening with some musicians!

The wardrobe doors swung open. Dozens upon dozens of outfits stared back at Vinyl — each was perfect in its own right, each incorporated splendor reserved for a princess, and each was not at all suited for the occasion.

"I'm doomed," Vinyl sighed loudly, slamming the wardrobe doors.

Maybe a bite was what she needed? Gustave would go out of his way to make something to lighten her mood, as usual. Sadly, the effort would take at least an hour, not to mention that Lyra had specially insisted that Vinyl not eat before the party. If you want to get a proper sense of a musician's life, start with the food, Lyra had said. The notion seemed highly questionable. Then again, Vinyl had gotten used to eating doughnuts. If everything else failed, she could always trot to Donut Joe's.

"Lady Vinyl?" A soft voice said next to the unicorn, causing her to hop in place then trip onto the floor.

"My Lady!" an extremely worried Glitter rushed. "Please forgive me! I am so sorry, I didn't mean to—"

"Glitter?" Vinyl managed to say, as she was being helped back to her hooves.

"Are you hurt? I—"

"Glitter, I am fine!" Vinyl frowned. "And I told you that nothing will happen to you, so relax! Sheesh!" I am not made of porcelain! I can take a bruise or two. "What is it you want?"

"You..." The maid swallowed. "You asked me to wake you up, Lady Vinyl. Then when I heard the noise I assumed that something bad had happened and—"

"As you can clearly see, all is fine!" This is what I get for slamming doors. Honestly, sometimes I feel I can't do anything in my own room! "And stop with the 'Lady' bit! I thought we discussed that when we are alone, I'm plain Vinyl."

"We are still in your manor, Lady Vinyl." Glitter made a few steps back. Right, Vinyl thought. There is no telling who might be listening in. "I will be taking my leave now, Lady Vinyl. The kitchen had been informed that you will skip dinner. Chef, however, insisted on making something light 'for the road'."

The maid's comment was met by an arched eyebrow.

"Monsieur Gustave has been concerned that you aren't eating properly, so..." A slight pause. "He prepared a basket for you to take with you when you leave tonight. I will fetch it immediately." She curtsied, and turned about ready to leave, when a sharp cough made her stop.

"Glitter," flaring up her horn, Vinyl closed the door of her room, gently this time, "do you have any plans for the evening?"

Both knew this wasn't a question, just as that Glitter had no choice but to accept. With a nod and a sigh the matter was resolved. On the outside Vinyl remained calm and collected, but deep within she was happy as a filly. There was somepony she could now turn to during the party. No more fears of anything going amiss, or Vinyl making a fool of herself. After all, Glitter had been to such parties before — she knew exactly how to act, what to say, and most importantly — how to dress.

"Well, there is nothing we can use from here." Glitter shook her head after briefly going through the wardrobe. "We might buy something along the way, but I'd say not bother."

"You can't mean we are going to a party all naturelle?" Vinyl blinked. "But we simply must... I...even at the Twin everypony was dressed up."

"Lady Vinyl, trust me when I say that at such occasions clothes' only purpose is to attract attention," the maid sighed. Interesting, she would do that quite often, when she was not all scared and panicky. "Believe me, neither of us will have any problem in that regard."

The explanation made no sense whatsoever, but Vinyl left it at that. In truth, part of her just wanted to get everything over with. Thus, she didn't protest too much in them going out as they were. Naturally, they used the servants' entrance. Naturally, they also passed through the kitchen, where a conspiratorial Chef Gustave loaded them with food, all the time pretending to be ignorant as to how long they would be out. Vinyl considered letting it 'slip' they were going to a party — knowing Chef, the griffin would be overjoyed to hear others were enjoying his masterpieces. Then again, he did have a tendency to talk a lot.

Another night — another stroll through Canterlot. Come to think of it, Vinyl had been there every night since she turned eighteen. One could be tempted to say this is how things were meant to be. The sights and sounds, even at dark didn't seem so cold and distant, even at night. It literally felt like a whole new world had appeared right next to the manor. Lamps shined brightly, illuminating the streets, ponies went about doing, enjoying the evening or going about their business... and the accursed whistling filled the air once more. Seriously, colts, don't you ever take a break? Every. Single. Damned. Time!

"Hey, moon-flankers!" Glitter shouted in fashion, Vinyl didn't think possible. "Quit acting like you're players. It's annoying as heck! The whole square knows you have never gotten hayed, so quick your bullcrap and stop pretending you were!"

There was a moment of silence, after which the group of stallions quickly cadenced away under the daze of everypony within earshot.

"Sorry, Vinyl." Glitter continued along, as if nothing had happened. "It just gets on my nerves sometimes." It was as if she were a totally different mare.

"Moon-flankers?" Vinyl managed to ask, while her mind tried to rationalize the rest.

"Oh, it's... best you don't know what it is yet."

Lyra's 'place' was a block away from the palace. Vinyl couldn't recall who the musician's parents were, but they obviously had to be rich to afford to buy her a place in such a neighborhood. Quite the difference from the places she had been visiting lately, although slightly short of aristocracy. Minor nobility at best, if Vinyl would venture a guess.

"Listen, Glitter," she whispered, as they approached the building. "I would very much like if it were not known who I am or the exact nature of our relations. Here we are just friends."

"Not a problem." The other smiled. "I don't expect there to be any trouble at a place like this, but just I case, I'll be there if you need me."

Why does everyone keep telling me that? Vinyl wondered.

"Oh, and just one more thing." Glitter's horn lit up. "Could you close your eyes for a moment?"

The request was quite unusual, as well as alarming. Only the knowledge that Glitter wouldn't dare do anything to harm her, made Vinyl comply. The moment she did, she felt the unmistakable sensation of aether going through her mane. Somewhat similar to her manestylist's practices, be it far less refined, and about an hour shorter. It was as if hundreds of tiny sparks bounced along every single hair before flying off somewhere.

"All done." Vinyl heard her maid say. Cautiously, she opened her eyes.

"By the stars..." The lady managed to utter, almost in trance. The pony in front of her was nothing like the Glitter she knew. The dull brown coat was now covered in golden glitter, as for the white mane — it had become more a river of diamond dust, flowing wildly over her.

"You can say I was not named Glitter for no reason." The unicorn smiled confidently at the still gaping Vinyl. "Come, we have a party to make ours."

Author's Note

Next chapter: Just a few friends...

10. Just a few friends...

"Vi!" Lyra hugged her the moment she jumped out of. After a few moments of feeling awkward, Vinyl decided to cautiously join in. "For a while I was worried you wouldn't make it." The musician let go, then examined her from head to hoof. "Love what you've done to the mane. You'll definitely be the the talk of the party."

"My mane?" Vinyl asked puzzled. Stars! I'm such an idiot! Glitter changed my mane as well!

"Glitter, how long has it been, pone?" Lyra went on to peck the other unicorn on either cheek. "Never expected you to show up. Haven't seen you at a party in, like, five months."

"Well, I work now." Glitter smiled. "You know how it is. Actually, scratch that. You don't have a bucking clue what work is, do you?"

"Ouch! That hurt!" Lyra shoved her in the shoulder jokingly. "Anyway, glad you made it! Things are just getting started, so everything is set up for your grand entrance. And since this is Vi's first time, I'll give her the grand tour!" She winked a Vinyl who only managed to mumble something in thanks.

"I'm sure you will." Glitter shook her head. "Before that, though—"

"I know, I know." The musician made a circle in the air with her hoof. "You’re a bunch of friends I used to hang out with. Sheesh! Learn to give me some credit, Glitter. I'm not that dim."

"It's not that." Glitter's expression darkened. "Is he here?"

This is interesting, Vinyl thought and instantly felt bad for doing so. Nopony, let alone one of her stature, should put her muzzle in another's personal life. It was rude, inappropriate, disgusting... and so tempting. Vinyl's parents had had several long conversations with her on the subject, explaining in great detail why it should never be done. Of course, they were hypocrites. Nearly every evening, when they were alone, they discussed the private lives of domestic and foreign dignitaries. Lately, Princess Luna had been the topic of gossip, along with her disastrous attempts to fit into modern society.

I really shouldn't eavesdrop, Vinyl told herself, then guiltily performed a sound amplification spell.

"I don't want to go through a repeat of last time," Glitter whispered, a few steps away from Vinyl. "Just because that jerk has 'feelings' all of a sudden doesn't mean I haven't moved on! If he gets drunk and nibbles my ear in public one more time, I swear—"

"He won't, I took care of it," Lyra assured her. "It's his shift, and I've told a few ponies to keep an eye out, just in case. If he even thinks of coming here I'll know and deal with him."

Drama! Vinyl felt both curious and ashamed. Real life was so much better than novels. Scary, but at the same time so full of colour she could hardly resist getting involved. Maybe she should have a long talk with Glitter on the matter? Come to think of it, the amount of talks she wanted to have with Glitter was getting dangerously high.

"Vi?" The sound of Lyra's voice brought Vinyl back to the here and now. "You okay? You're zoning out..."

"Oh." Damn you, brain! Learn to cope and focus better. "I was just thinking about something," she smiled. "We've brought some treats," she levitated her food basket forward in the hopes it would deflect any following questions. "Nothing much, just—"

"So sweet of you." Lyra covered her smile with a hoof. Her horn flashed briefly, at which point the food basket suddenly vanished. "You shouldn't have, though. I have all the food we need!" She put her hoof round Vinyl, literally dragging her into her home. "Come, there are lots of ponies I want to introduce you to!"

"But, but, Glit—" Vinyl began, trying to keep up. Where is she getting all this energy from?!

"Not to worry, she'll be nearby," Lyra assured. "Besides, Glitter can mingle on her own."

The statement didn't make Vinyl feel any more at ease. As long as this was more like a soiree than a party everything would be fine, yet the unicorn still had an unpleasant feeling in her stomach. Trying to slow Lyra's advance, she glanced at Glitter over her shoulder. The maid just nodded with a smile and whispered "don't drink the punch". The words would have remained unheard, hadn't it been for Vinyl's sound amplification spell. A shade of pink appeared on Vinyl's face — she was so busted; Glitter knew she had been eavesdropping all along.

"Hey, phones!" Lyra announced loudly, upon entering her living room. "Let me introduce two very special friends of mine!" Vinyl could feel her throat go dry. "Glitter and Vi!" Here we go. Oh, no this is not embarrassing at all.

The ponies greeted in turn. There were far more of then than Vinyl expected. When Lyra had said "a few friends" the logical thing to assume was a few dozen at most. Looking around, there were at least thirty only in this area of the house. One major difference from Vinyl’s experience in the nightclub was that the majority here were unicorns. Pegasi and earth ponies were far less common, and, judging by their cutie-marks, all musicians. At least that part is true, Vinyl thought.

"Let me introduce you to a few ponies," Lyra dragged Vinyl on, thankfully far more gently this time. Her enthusiasm really was out of this world. If Glitter had behaved like that even for a second she would have been fired on the spot.

The place itself was quite unusual. Originally, it must have been a calm, conservative home for the upper-middle class. The musician had changed more than a bit. All walls that could be knocked down had been, creating one huge space on the ground floor reaching up to the roof itself. Smaller rooms were scattered all over the second floor — bedrooms, possibly. No hint of a kitchen — if such existed, it probably had been removed during the "renovation.” Little wonder that Lyra was a regular at Donut Joe's.

"How in Canterlot did your parents agree to this?" Vinyl managed to ask. Is that a crystal chandelier made into a table? With a pole in the middle?!

"Oh, it's my place. I can do whatever I want with it," Lyra chuckled. "As long as I don't set it on fire, and have the walls covered with sound reduction spells during a party."

"Right." I'm beginning to regret coming here. "About that. I believe you mentioned you were inviting a few close friends. That's hardly 'a few' by any stretch of the imagination."

"Vi, you really need to learn to live a bit." Lyra ruffled her mane, causing Vinyl to freeze for a moment. Only her manestylist was allowed to touch her mane like that! "And they are from the music scene. Well, in some manner of speaking."

"Please, do tell." Vinyl narrowed her eyes.

"You see that group over there?" Lyra pointed at the far corner, where five ponies were dancing wildly. "That's the brass section. The most promising in their field. Some have already had concerts. Out of this room, they are strict and snobbish as you could expect, but every once in awhile they go to a party to stress out."

Some of them did seem familiar. Possibly they had been present at one of the concertos Vinyl had been at. None gave her the impression of being particularly special — she would have remembered them if they were.

"That there is Neon Lights." Lyra pointed to a light cyan unicorn among a crowd of mares. "Great DJ, super crowd warmer, and quite the playcolt. He tends to get a bit too close to his fans, if you know what I mean."

"There seems to be a lot of that going around in the DJ scene," Vinyl said quietly. Octavia's recent experience came to mind. I wonder if her... temporary partner is anywhere here? Or maybe he was just a fan?

"Yes, it's definitely the wild life," Lyra chuckled. "Baby steps, Vi. You'll get there eventually."

I certainly doubt I would follow that particular path, the white unicorn thought, indignantly.

"Oh, that one is quite interesting." Lyra moved her head indicating a blue maned stallion. "Royal guard by day, superb guitar player by night. And I do mean superb. Great thing is, since he is a guard, he can't dream of doing any funny business... unless he's very discreet. Maybe you should check him out sometime?"

"Somehow I doubt it." Is she seriously suggesting that I...? Surely it can't be. It has to be the music. Yes, definitely the music. This wasn't good. A few minutes in, and Vinyl could feel her mind shutting down. A bit longer and she would transform into a walking puppet again.

No! she thought, then bit her tongue. That quickly focused her senses, causing her to forget any make-belief fears. This was a civilized Canterlot party — nothing could go wrong here. Especially not with with Glitter around. All her fears were in her mind, and nowhere else!

"So what now?" Vinyl asked, waiting for the mental fog to lift slowly. Keep it genetic. That way no one would be able to see the difference.

"Now?" Lyra laughed. "Vi, you really are too much!" She hugged her, much to Vinyl's dismay. This is ridiculous! What are we? In kindergarten?

"I am quite serious!" The white unicorn pushed Lyra off her. "If you remember the whole reason I came here was to learn how to become a you-know-what." Uttering it in public still caused her some discomfort.

"I know, I know." Lyra kept on laughing. "It's just. You're so stiff that you might be an ice princess."

Narrowing her eyes, vinyl glared at her. Her body urged her to snort in disapproval. Years of strict training and manners kept against it, resulting in an expression three-quarters between annoyance and snobbishness.

"There!" Lyra pointed at her. "That's it! That's exactly what I'm talking about! You keep everything in — good or bad. There might be a storm raging inside you, but all you do is give that look. Believe me, I know how it is. I had to act the same way, while I lived with my parents. At parties you have to loosen up. On the dance floor you really have to loosen up. That's pretty much the difference between classical and modern."

Vinyl's ears perked up. Finally something worthwhile. One simple sentence and her negative opinion of Lyra had vanished. Instead, now she was looking at her like a schoolfilly focused her attention on a teacher, expecting to learn the secrets of the universe.

"With classical the performer expects to feed the crowd," Lyra continued. "With modern — you feed off the crowd. All the noise that would ruin a concerto acts like pure adrenalin in a stadium. Your whole life you have been trained to block everything out. Perfect for classical, useless anywhere else. Until you start to relax and let go, you won't get anywhere much."

"That's utter nonsense!" Vinyl said, although deep inside she was already giving it serious consideration. "Surely—"

"Lyra!" A pegasus dashed to them, interrupting Vinyl mid-word. "It's bad! Really really bad! Some idiot mentioned about the party at Clubdance. From there somehow it got to River Tail and..." The Pegasus stopped, swallowing guiltily. "He knows. And he also knows that Glitter is here."

"Well, that's just perfect!" Lyra's sunny disposition was suddenly replaced by the snarl of an angry manticore. "What the hay, Cloud Trail?! It was supposed to be kept under wraps!"

"I know! Can't explain how it happened."

"Don't bother. If I know him, he's already on his way here. Shit!" Lyra stomped on the floor hard. "Glitter's gonna kill me. Listen, try to hold him up or something. I'll be there in a sec." The Pegasus nodded, then flew out of a window just as quickly as he had appeared. "Vi," Lyra turned to Vinyl, "really sorry about this, but there's something I must take care of. You go ahead and enjoy the party. Promise I'll come back the moment I settle things."

Before Vinyl could protest or even voice a question, Lyra had pecked her gently on the cheek and teleported out of the room.

What just happened? She stared blankly into the distance. Every time she thought she things figured out, reality twist her horn in an entire new way. Slowly, Vinyl touched her cheek, as to make sure it was still there and intact. Part of her was disgusted how unhygienic it was, the rest — wondering if she shouldn't explore further.

"It's silly," Vinyl said out loud, hoping her own voice would ring some sense into her. "This is hardly the time to—"

"Princess?" The word caused Vinyl to freeze petrified. Her years shot up in alarm. Terrified, she turned towards the source of the voice. Less than a few steps away stood none other than the waitress from the Lunar Twin.

"Astra?" she asked, in disbelief. This was the first time vinyl had seen the waitress au naturalle, and was she different! Light hazel coat, straight golden mane, a theatre mask for her cutie mark. As if somepony else was standing there. "You are... blonde?" The first thought came out of her mouth. "I thought..." she stopped. There was no unrude way to continue that sentence.

"I told you I came from a small town," Astra smiled. "Also, it's a good idea to have a different look for work. A lot less questions that way."

"I can imagine, but," she examined her mane closely, "blonde? So all that was makeup, not just the sparkling mane?"

"Necessities of the job." The other smiled and took a drink of the cut she was holding. "Tips are way better. Believe me, I learned the hard way. After all, remember the way you stared at me the first time you saw me?"

"Oh." Vinyl tilted her head down slightly. "My apologies for that, I didn't mean to be rude." Should I give some explanation? I don't want to appear like it sniveling. But I mustn't be cold either. Maybe I should take this chance to get to know her better? But should Come too strong or—

"Princess, you never chill, do you?" Astra laughed. "The guest of honour at Lyra's party and you still treat this as punishment."

"I most certainly do not!" Vinyl lifted her head up high again. "I happen to be extremely grateful to Lyra for inviting me here! She has been nothing but nice and understanding!"

"Well, you could have fooled me," the earth pony sighed. "Listen, I don't know why you are here, but it’s certainly not to have fun. The same like when you went to the Twin. Something is driving you there, yet you also regret it. Take it from me, until you make up your mind you'll never be happy one way or the other."

"It's hardly that simple!" Stars, I sound like my father. Each time he goes off on one of his excavation trips he constantly tells me how much he misses me, yet it's never as simple as spending a few days with me. "Actually, you know what? You are right. I came here to have fun, and I intend to do just that!"

For several seconds, she just stood there, determined, uncomfortable and clueless, until she finally dared ask the question.

"What do you usually do at parties?" she whispered to Astra.

"To loosen up? Try some of this?" She offered her cup to Vinyl. The mere thought of drinking from somepony else's drink was repulsive, yet gritting her teeth, Vinyl levitated it towards herself.

"What is it?" She asked looking at the purplish substance.

"Punch." Astra smiled. "A few gulps and you'll be all set."

* * *

"Mother, why do I have to go to these events?" Vinyl asked as a stylist and three maids carefully levitated her dress onto her. It was composed of so many elements, that it might have been quicker to take all the stars from the sky and wear them.

"Your aunt has organized it, Vinyl," he mother explained calmly. "Therefore, it is our duty and obligation to go. Furthermore, she had expressed desire to see your cutie-mark."

"But, Mother, my cutie-mark is shameful!" Vinyl sulked. "It is not noble like yours or fathers." Even my stupid cousin got a star compass!

A sharp aether slap hit vinyl right on the cheek. This was the first time she had know her mother to do that to her. The experience was more surprising than painful, causing her to freeze up in shock.

"What is shameful is to deny your talent," her mother's tone didn't change one iota. "Although it might not be what any of us had hoped, it is your stars-given destiny, and you will not shame yourself and your family by claiming that it isn't suited for you." Slowly, the duchess went in front of Vinyl, and lifted her daughter's face up, so as to look her in the eye.

"Now listen to me," she started, every word crystal clear. "You are going to go to this special soiree and act as if it's the most magnificent thing you've ever seen. Your cousin will be there, as well as the Princess herself. I expect each of them to welcome you in some fashion. You will not make any sarcastic comments regarding your cutie-mark, nor will you show any displeasure in having it. If your cousin tries to ridicule you, accept it with humility, the same way I taught you. Is all that clear?"

"Yes, your Grace," Vinyl answered through her facade.

"Good. I expect your behaviour to be superb." Her mother nodded. "Especially tonight. Such events only happen once in a lifetime, so be sure to make it a success, or you will live with the regret your entire life."

"I understand, Mother."

"My dear, Vinyl." The duchess passed a hoof gently over Vinyl's still sore cheek. "I am sure you do. And that is why you must always be prepared."

"Might I ask a question, Mother?" Vinyl asked, then receiving a nod proceeded. "How do I enjoy such an event?"

"Simple." Her mother's eyes softened for a moment. "You pretend you are the only one there."

* * *

"It was only half a cup!" Vinyl heard somepony say in a panicked voice. For some reason, it seemed so hilarious. "Less than that, even! I had no idea it would gave such an effect!"

"That's just perfect," Lyra sighed, keeping Vinyl up with her magic. Without it, the white unicorn would instantly return to being a pile on the ground, as she had for the last ten minutes. "First Fire tries to crash my party, now this. What the buck were you thinking, Cherry Mask?!"

"I just wanted to help her loosen up a bit," the blonde earth pony said, full of worry. "I knew she couldn't handle the strong stuff, but a sip of punch!" She placed both forehooves on her temples. "I didn't expect that! Honestly, Lura, I—"

"You really messed up, Cherry!" Lyra moved forward, levitating Vinyl behind her. "Vi's never touched a drop in her life."

"How was I supposed to know?! Who does that? Look, I knew she was sheltered, but not this much. Half the snobs I know have been secretly drinking since they got their cutie-marks! She's eighteen, for Celestia's sake!"

"Will you just help me get her to the terrace?" Lyra snapped at her. "I'll deal with this. You just... just make sure no one goes there. And for string's sake, don't let Glitter learn of this! It's enough she almost tore Fire's feathers off!"

"Everything's moving!" Vinyl announced joyfully, her accent not in the least affected by her drunken state. "Just like the huge merry-go-round mommy gave me for my seventh birthday."

"Yes, Vi, just like that." Lyra rushed up the stairs. There were far fewer ponies in this part of the house — most preferred to party in the main area, yet still there were plenty of times Lyra had to struggle to get Vinyl through safely. And all the time Vinyl was acting like a mare which had downed a barrel of hard cider.

"You know," Vinyl lifted a hoof, only to have it brought back down by Lyra's Magic once more, "you and Glitter are my best friends! My truly best friends in all of Canterlot!"

"That's good to know." Lyra concentrated, opening the terrace does in front of her. "Let's just get you outside. Some cool fresh air will make you feel may better."

"My parents don't love me!" Vinyl continued, her drunken cheer suddenly replaced by sadness. "They leave me all alone in that big manor, as if I'm a piece of furniture. Never come on my birthday. Not once in five years! The only reason they are there for Hearth's Warming is because the Princess expects it from them!"

"Now, Vi, I'm sure—" Lyra moved her closer, shutting the terrace doors behind them.

"Hate me!" Vinyl didn't allow to be interrupted. "Because of my cutie-mark! Think that music is shameful! Well, it isn't! It's beautiful, magnificent, divine! A river of sounds that flows to the stars and back!" She started sobbing on Lyra's shoulder. "I just want to swim in a river of sounds."

The sobbing changed into full blown crying. It was as if all the emotions Vinyl had kept bottled inside wanted to get out. All those years keeping a perfect front, lying to others and herself, that she could handle it all, relied on the unicorn's ability to maintain full control. Now her control was gone, causing her "marble facade" to crack like cheap clay in a fireplace.

"Octavia hates me!" Vinyl continued, not even sending Laura's attempts to calm her down. "She can do such beautiful music, but will never teach me, because she hates me! All my life those stupid exercises — 'young miss, tact three', 'young miss, tact four'!" She waved a hoof in the air. "Useless! Once in my life I meet somepony who could teach me, and she rejects me!"

"There, there, Vi," Lyra whispered softly, gently stroking her mane. "There are others who can teach you."

"Not like Octavia!" Vinyl paused a moment to take a breath. The recent crying had exhausted her to the point she had calmed down, but a fraction. "She is a genius. She takes third rate equipment and composed something beautiful. My own voice! She used my own voice as an instrument. And she said no. Why, Lyra? Why did she say no?"

"Hush. Life is like that sometimes," Lyra held her tightly. "It will pass. Octavia is good, but just not for you. She always says no. She doesn't hate you, Vinyl, nopony hates you—"

"I destroyed a club!" The white unicorn, just couldn't let go of her sadness. "A whole club! I just had to say yes. A foal could do it. But did I? No! I am a disappointment! To my parents, to Presence, to Octavia..." Still off balance she made a step back, so as to look at Lyra. The action nearly caused her to topple over, fortunately her friend held her in place with her magic. "I'm a disappointment to Chef, to Glitter, even to you!"

"Vi, Vi!" Lyra held her firmly. "You'll never be a disappointment to me!" Gently, she brushed away Vinyl's tears, moved her mane off her face, then sensually kissed her on the mouth. The experience lasted no more than a few seconds. When it was over, Vinyl was sound asleep.

Author's Note

Next chapter: Lyra knows best

11. Lyra Knows Best

Vinyl's head was killing her. It was as if a thundercloud was raging inside her skull, refusing to stop. And those infernal birds! Why in Tartarus did they have to be so loud!? It was as if they had gathered in front of her window solely for the purpose of spiting her.

"Glitter..." Vinyl groaned as she tried to open her eyes. The moment she did, a painful, incandescent white light shot right into her brain. Too bright! Too bright! She quickly closed her eyes again then pulled a pillow over her face for good measure. "Oh, my aching head!"

"Here," a whisper came. "Drink this. You'll feel better."

Reluctantly, Vinyl moved the pillow away. The pain was great, but the promise of having that pain disappear — even greater. She felt the cold brim of a cup touch her muzzle. So cool, she thought, almost in bliss, as she sipped away. The taste was awful. If she were to describe it, she would go with "bitterness mixed with licorice." Still, she drank it all to the bottom. As long as there was a chance for the headache to go away, she was prepared to do anything.

"It'll start to have an effect in a few minutes," the whisper said.

"Thank the stars!" Vinyl said, searching blindly for the pillow. "Could you draw the curtains? The light is unbearable!"

"For you — anything," came a soft chuckle.

Sure, laugh it out! Another party, and somehow Vinyl had managed yet again to lose consciousness. This was starting to become a pattern. At least this time she didn't feel guilty about it. Not that she enjoyed it — the experience was absolutely terrible, only this time her brain had started to consider it normal.

Do I have to go through more of these? She sighed. And here I thought learning to use a turntable would be the difficult part. How in Equestria do these party ponies manage to survive this?

"Hold on for a moment." Vinyl felt two hooves gently start massaging her temples. "Does this feel any better?"

Any thoughts of protest quickly disappeared as Vinyl started feeling her head once more. It was almost as good as going to a chiropractor. Scratch that — it was far better. In all previous occasions, Vinyl had no real reason to undergo the treatment. This time — she needed it desperately.

"You sure partied hard last night."

"Tell me about it." Vinyl stretched. Cautiously, she cracked an eye open. No blinding light — that was always a good start. Instead, she slowly focused on the celestial motifs on the ceiling, the velvet red of the curtain, and Lyra's smiling face above her...

"What?!" Vinyl instinctively jumped to her hooves, almost bumping into the unicorn in the process. "What are you doing here?!"

"I live here." Lyra smiled, pulling slightly away. "You had a bit too much yesterday, so Glitter and I moved you here. You've no idea how capricious you are when you sleep, Vi. If it were anypony else—"

"Would you stop bothering with that?" Vinyl felt cold sweat cover her. "Why am I here? Where is Glitter?"

"Hey, relax." Lyra gently levitated her back down until Vinyl's head touched the pillow once more. "Glitter is fine. She is out to buy you some breakfast. She didn't think you'd approve of party scraps. We took turns watching over you while you slept. Thankfully, you weren't as violent as we feared."

"Well thank the stars for small blessings," Vinyl grumbled, then started massaging her temples. Her headache was showing signs of returning.

"Actually you were quite cute. All curled up like a white puff," Lyra chucked.

"Could we please talk about something else?"

"Another interesting thing," Lyra continued ignoring her completely, "is that you talk in your sleep. Any guesses what it was about?"

"Lyra, I honestly—"

"What a disappointment you were to Equestria," the musician said flatly. "You have no idea how long that lasted. If you were anypony else I'd say you needed therapy. You blame yourself for everything, and I do mean everything! Things from your childhood, your cutie-mark, your parents not being in Canterlot that often... On three occasions you started sobbing that you wanted to be banished to the moon."

Vinyl remained quiet.

"Listen, Vi, I know this isn't what you came for, but you're crazy if you think I won't lend a hoof." Lyra moved towards the door. "We've all been through things. I just want you to know I'm here when you need me. When you're feeling okay come down for breakfast." She left the room, closing the door behind her.

What in Equestria are you talking about? Vinyl wondered. Lyra definitely had issues. Must have been all the parties she'd been to. Or maybe she had got drunk as well last night? Hearing her trying to act like a psychiatrist was anything between alarming and pathetic. Especially, since she obviously wasn't good at it.

"Banished to the moon, my hoof!" the white unicorn whispered, still massaging her temples. She had to admit, though, that the drink Lyra had given her was starting to do its stuff. A few more minutes and her headache was completely gone, replaced by a hunger she had never known before. She could really use a few of Chef's snacks about now, or even the so dreaded "party leftovers". Surely they couldn't be that bad.

Getting out of the room proved a little tricky. Vinyl's balance was slightly off, just as was her magic. Several attempts were necessary for her to magic the door open. The moment she did, she was greeted by a sight from her nightmares — there entire floor of the main area was covered with food, sleeping ponies and the occasional clothing item. Punch stains covered walls, carpets, as well as the ceiling itself — some pegasus must have had a fun night and way too much to drink. Sitting at the chandelier table below, Lyra waved at Vinyl to join her. Glitter was also there, diligently unwrapping the breakfast she had bought — doughnuts again. Why did it have to be doughnuts?

Tiptoeing past the sleeping ponies, Vinyl made her way down. The pole in the middle of the table still crept her out.

"Morning, Miss," Glitter said out of habit and pushed a plate of doughnuts in front of her. "Managed to sleep at all?"

"Apparently, I wanted to be banished to the moon," Vinyl replied, eyeing Lyra.

"It happens to the best of us." The musician patted her on the shoulder. "So what do you think?"

"Of the thirty minutes I was conscious?" Vinyl allowed herself a snort. "Hardly much. I can see that some had a great time. What about you, Glitter? Everything alright?"

"Mostly." Clearly the maid didn't want to talk about it. "I did tell... certain ponies at the manor of your situation, and everything will be fine." She took a bite of her doughnut. "Provided we are back by evening."

That didn't sound too good.

"So this is what your parties are like?" Vinyl pushed the food away. For some reason she had just lost her appetite.

"I admit this one got a bit wild." Lyra smiled sheepishly. "It was totally okay the first few hours. A pity things turned out that way. I was planning on introducing you to some ponies who were part of the music scene and would have loved to give you a few pointers."

"Which is precisely where the problem lies," Glitter whispered. "If Miss wanted to get close to somepony she would have done so. The main thing was music, remember?"

"Hey, a little chill never hurt anypony." The musician shrugged. "Besides, you of all ponies should know she'll have to face it sooner or later. Best to do do somewhere safe than get hurt."

Funny, Octavia had said the same thing. There was also the "first listen then play" philosophy. Had that been the truth, or just an attempt to get Vinyl off her back?

"Can you really teach me anything, Lyra?" Vinyl said all of a sudden. "About DJing. You are obviously good in classical strings and percussion, possibly horns. And from all this," she waved her forehoof around to illustrate, "quite the party mare. You probably know everypony who is anypony. But can you really teach me what I'm asking?"

Silence fell. Lyra, usually overly talkative, had now shifted her focus to the surface of the table, scraping off a bit of food with her hoof. Glitter, on her end, returned to her doughnut, taking her time with it.

"I can't believe this!" Vinyl slammed both forehooves on the table. "You set all this up so that I would learn to have a 'good time'?" Stars help you if that is the case!

"Well..." Lyra ventured. "You see..."

"Oh my, you did!" Vinyl felt like smacking herself on the forehead. "Seriously, do you think that's what I needed?" She looked at Glitter. "Actually it doesn't matter. It was my own mistake to fall for this. Once you finish eating we are going home!"

"Yes, Miss," Glitter said quietly.

"I... I'll go see if th-th-there's anything left to drink," Lyra stuttered, then disappeared in a green flash of light. The suddenness caused Vinyl to forget everything she said. An unpleasant feeling of guilt formed in her chest. I did it again, didn't I? she looked at Glitter, who merely continued eating, not saying a word.

I'm such an idiot! What was I thinking? That everything would be given to me, just as it is back home? Things really were different in the real world. Up until now she had been used to getting everything she ever wished for. Well, nearly everything. All she had to do was tell her governess she wanted something and it would be delivered the very next day. Often Vinyl didn't even have to bother with that. The entire music room was built on her mother's assumption that she might require a refined hobby. The vast training room was there, because her father had hoped Vinyl would turn out the adventurous type, like him. How disappointed he had been to witness his mistake. Even the kitchen had two additional rooms, solely for the purpose should Vinyl express a desire to help Chef with the cooking one day. That day hadn't come and the rooms remained unused, yet always fully stocked and in pristine condition.

Vinyl let out a deep sigh. She knew that the real world was different, she thought she had experienced that. In truth she had merely scratched the surface. She might as well have read a book on the matter. If a common mare had experienced the things Vinyl had, how would she have reacted? In less than a week Vinyl had become a club sensation, be it short-lived, got to be on first name basis with Grandmaster Mel — who had done a sampling of her on top of everything else — and was a guest of honour in Lyra Heartstrings’ party. Vinyl's real problem was that she could not appreciate those things. Always focusing on what she didn't get, she missed taking account of everything she already had.

"Take your time, Glitter." Vinyl moved away from the table. "There's something I must attend to before—"

"She really can help you, Miss," the other interrupted. "It just takes a while. Please allow her that time. Lyra has been through things."

"Why in stars' name didn't she say so?" Vinyl's ears flicked backwards. "Why didn't you? If I had known—"

"Everypony has a story, Miss." Glitter looked at her, semi-smile on face. "Not all wish to share it. I'll be here when you're done."

The notion pierced Vinyl like a bolt of ice. Of course everypony had a story! They had their own lives, after all. Another thing she had chosen to ignore. You really are self-centered, aren't you Vinyl? The perfect spoilt little snob.

Finding Lyra proved remarkably difficult, considering the small size of the house. If her magic wasn't still out of whack, Vinyl would have definitely chosen to levitate, rather than tiptoe through the mass of sleeping ponies that cluttered the floors. It was as if they had some aversion to beds. Then again, from what she had seen, Vinyl suspected that the beds weren't exactly used for sleeping. It took her half an hour before she thought of checking the terrace. Lyra was just standing there, staring at the distance, oblivious to the world around her.

Damn it! I sure did it this time. I've known her barely for a day and already managed to get her to not talk to me.

"Lyra?" Vinyl said. No answer. "Lyra," she made a few steps forward, "I honestly—"

"Oh, Vi!" The musician turned around unexpectedly, and hugged her tightly. "I'm so sorry! I never thought about what you might be going through when I dragged you into this! I was selfish and stupid!"

What the stars? It took Vinyl extreme effort to keep her expression unchanged. Initially, she was preparing for a smack on the muzzle. That's what should have happened. Instead, this took her completely off guard.

"There's no reason to blame yourself." Vinyl slowly returned the hug. Best if I play along. And now she is crying. Honestly, what is wrong with her? Bipolar disorder? "Please don't cry. The experience might have been unexpected, but definitely not entirely unwelcome." She lied. "And I didn't mean all the things I said."

"You are too nice to me!" Lyra sobbed.

Just as bad as opera, Vinyl thought as she petted Lyra gently on the back. What should I expect now? Singing? Neither of us are fillies. We hardly know each other. Why is she so impressionable?

"Even after everything I've done, you are still so nice." Lyra moved back, brushing away her tears. "You are a treasure, Vi, do you know that?"

"Others have mentioned," Vinyl muttered under her breath.

"You are set on Mel, aren't you?" The question was so sudden that Vinyl felt her mouth open without having anything to say. "It's obvious. And although, I think she's far too extreme... I owe it to you to help make it work."

"Did you zap yourself or something?" Vinyl narrowed an eye. That was quite the sudden change of topic, not to mention mood. Was it possible that Lyra was drunk, just very good at hiding it?

"You said it yourself. Mel is arguably the best, and by your cold reaction to other alternatives at the party, you are unlikely to settle for anypony else." Somehow, the musician was back to her old smiling self. "So I'll tell you everything you need to know to change her mind. And guide you along the way, of course."

"Lyra," vinyl sighed. " I know you are trying your best to get me to feel better, but you really shouldn't. The whole Octavia thing is done with. She outright said it — I couldn't talk her into it, I couldn't buy her, there is nothing for me to offer to make her reconsider."

"Weeeeell." Lyra made a few steps towards the edge of the terrace, flicking her tail as she did so. "It is true that not everypony has a price. Mel, though... there is something even she wants beyond anything else. You can't give it to her, neither could I. However, the both of us..." She looked at Vinyl with an enigmatic smile.

* * *

"Now pay attention, Vinyl." Her father smiled as he levitated a small golden statue towards her. "This is quite a rare find. It is said there are only two in existence."

"I understand, Father!" Vinyl said with the annoyance of a ten-year-old who thought she knew everything. "This is part of your Hippus find, for which you spent three months away!"

"Oh, dear me. I guess our little princess is upset with me?" He laughed.

Vinyl hated when he did that, but she adored him as well. Unlike her mother, her father was always the open and adventurous type. He would smile, even laugh, when he felt like it and never worried about speaking his mind. Vinyl's mother could never get away with that, and sadly neither could Vinyl. There were two major things that made her father different: he was a stallion and not a direct descendant of the Princess. According to his family tree, an amount of Starswirl's blood ran through his veins — not much, but enough to allow him to marry into the family, an act that Vinyl's grandmother still wasn't pleased of. On the up side, it was from him that Vinyl got her blue mane.

"Father, would you stop mocking me?" Vinyl tried not to sulk. "There is no reason for you to go on these trips. As Mother has pointed out, you could easily use dragon scrolls to send instructions to the sites."

"Why yes, I believe it is possible." Cyan Star scratched his horn in mock though. "However, how would my assistants find their way into the ancient temples?"

"They have they keys!" Vinyl pointed at the golden statue. Quite the crude representation of a phoenix, if there ever was one. Naturally, she was aware that most Hippus artifacts had a dual function — they were more than mere ornaments. They also served as keys and activation devices. "Why can't they manage on their own?"

"Sweetness, it takes more than a key to open a door." He ruffled her mane. The notion was enjoyable, so Vinyl waited for several seconds before pushing his hoof off her, pretending to be annoyed. Her mother had told her that ladies had an image to keep.. "The key alone is useless without the horn to activate it."

"I know, Father," she sighed. "But surely there are others who could do that? Can't you stay home?"

"Not as many as you would think could manage. And definitely not all of them would risk their lives to 'go dig a hole at the end of Equestria'," he said, causing Vinyl to chuckle despite herself. "I'll be back in a few weeks. A month at most." He levitated the statue back into his saddlebag. "Besides, didn't you learn an important lesson just now?"

"Neither one half nor the other is capable of anything. Combined, however, they are capable of miracles," Vinyl recited.

"Oh, so you know it already?" Cyan smiled.

"Father, you say the same thing every time you leave!"

"I guess I do, my little princess," he laughed. "But that doesn't make it any less true."

* * *

"Lyra, have you gone insane?!" Vinyl whispered. "I truly can't believe I went along with this!"

When Lyra had initially suggested they go to the Royal Conservatory to check on a class, Vinyl had thought nothing of it. Yes, they were going to do so secretly, but since Vinyl was technically third heiress to the city of Canterlot, she didn't consider it a big deal. When, instead, Lyra had teleported them literally onto the chandelier in one of the practice halls, her opinion quickly changed.

"Relax, Vi. View’s great from up here!" Lyra smiled. "I cast a silence bubble. There is no way anypony will hear us."

"Somehow this wasn't my main concern!" Vinyl looked down. The height made her feel dizzy. If I survive this, I am definitely finding a way to punish you, you maniac! "What is it with you and chandeliers anyway? Couldn't we have just walked in like normal ponies?"

"As amusing as it is to look at your expression, no." Lyra pointed down. "This sort of thing can only be seen from up here."

"And what exactly is 'this sort of thing'?" Vinyl tried her best to appear calm. Steady breaths. Remain level. Steady breaths.

"You'll know it when you see it."

Five minutes later practice started. It was fairly accurate, everything considered, although Vinyl still found plenty of instances to be displeased of. The strings were better than average, yet the conducting was outright poor. On two occasions Vinyl felt like teleporting down and correcting the unfortunate conductor. Fifteen of the most excruciating minutes of Vinyl's life followed, until finally the 'moment' came. While the senior students were practicing, carefully observed by their juniors, one of the side doors of the hall gently opened. A janitor pony entered and slowly started cleaning. This, in itself, was hardly remarkable. The fact, that this particular janitor only swept over a small area of the hall over and over again, however, was.

"Appears two times per week," Lyra said smugly. "First time I noticed was by accident. I asked her about it and she said it was related to her community service. Now, even if that were true, why would she come clean only this room, and time it so there's always a practice session?"

"What are you talking about, Lyra?" I'm getting tired of this...

"Who do you think?" The musician gave Vinyl the look. It took less than a second for it to dawn on Vinyl what she meant.

"What?" She looked down at the janitor. "No. Seriously? You think that's...?"

"I bet my heartstrings on it! She's been doing this for quite a while. Naturally, I got curious and did some checking. Apparently Mel made several inquiries regarding the Conservatory. More specifically — she was interested in the application process. A friend of a friend told me she paid quite a large sum to get to Canterlot and apply. Only problem was—"

"That the Royal Conservatory doesn't accept beginners," Vinyl finished the sentence.

"Got it in one!" Lyra clapped her forehooves together. "Apparently your Grandmaster has quite the thing for the classical. From what I heard, she didn't take it well that the chances of an earth pony, especially one with no formal training, were zero. Made quite the scandal. Told them that since they accepted the entry fee they were obliged to keep the position for her until she could be admitted."

That definitely sounded like Octavia. Could it be that was why she couldn't have a full time job as a DJ? She was trying to make up for missing time? A noble idea, without a doubt, but absolutely absurd. There was no way she could match the most gifted prodigies in Equestria. Not by visiting rehearsals two times per week, at least. And even if she did, the cost of living in Canterlot, not to mention music instruments, additional tutoring fees, educational materials and dozens of other things would be far too much for her to afford. Only option was to receive an excellence scholarship, and those were difficult to get.

"They tried to give her back her money," Lyra continued. "Even offered to double the amount, since it was the Conservatory's fault they hadn't mentioned the requirements beforehoof. Mel outright refused it. She said she'll be admitted even if she has to wait ten years for it."

"Octavia wants to become a classical musician," Vinyl repeated slowly.

"Which she can't without skills, education and training." Lyra nodded. "Now I can help train her to learn to play strings, not that it will be easy... or pleasant, but I could. You can provide her with the education fundamentals."

"Are you seriously suggesting I offer to prepare Octavia for entering the Royal Conservatory?" I can't tutor anypony! I'm not even sure I can explain things properly. The last time I tried, my cousin had to drink a bowl of scotch to forget the experience.

"That's the idea," Lyra grinned widely. "We teach her, she teaches you. Sweat deal, right?"

"Right..." Vinyl said slowly. It was a solution, after all, and a realistic one at that. Would Octavia agree, though? There was only one way to find out.

Author's Note

Final chapter of Act I: The Pact

12. The Pact

"Mother, why do we have to pretend?" Vinyl asked. She had just finished her homework, and there was a quarter of an hour before the start of her next lesson.

"Everypony pretends Vinyl," the Duchess of Canterlot replied. "The weak pretend to be strong, the sad pretend to be happy. Ponies like to believe that by pretending they could achieve what they are lacking."

That's a preposterous explanation, Vinyl thought. Why would anypony pretend to be something they weren't instead of achieving it?

"But we have everything, Mother. Why do we have to pretend?" Vinyl persisted.

"We pretend because we have to." Her mother moved in front of Vinyl's desk. She was, as always, perfectly calm — the edges of her lips curved in an almost unnoticeable smile. "While others pretend to be like us, we pretend to be the ideal worth copying. Powerful, awe inspiring, distant — that is what we must be. Remember that, Vinyl."

The explanation still didn't stand to logic, but Vinyl nodded nonetheless. her mother was too good at pretending to be lying. Most of the nobles at the soirees were doing exactly the same. Only Vinyl's father and cousin didn't seem to care. Vinyl's cousin was actually notorious for it — a "wild stallion spoilt beyond measure" was the phrase that circulated. For one thing he certainly was annoying and pompous. It was a wonder he was at all related to Vinyl's family.

"Mother, does the Princess pretend?" Vinyl dared ask. She still had a few minutes before the start of her lesson and was planning to make full use of them.

"Darling, the Princess does nothing but pretend." The Duchess turned around. "Every waking moment for a thousand years, she pretends to be happy."

* * *

"Y'er outta ya bleedin' mind, mate!" The shout could be heard all the way on the street. "If ya ain't go' gig, jus’ tell us straight!" All ponies there stopped, directing their attention to the nightclub. Even in this part of town such scenes didn't happen too often, at least not before moonrise.

"Mel, seriously, just four nights per week!" A plea of equal strength sounded. "You're killing me here! Bits on hoof. You know I'm good for it!"

"Not interested, mate!" Octavia stormed out of the nightclub. "I'm tire' of you lot givin' me the bloody runaround! If ya ain't up for a gig per week, don't waste me bloody—" The mare would probably have go on, if something hadn't caught her attention. A few steps away, standing patiently on the pavement, was a white unicorn. "Bloody sauce," Octavia said bitterly, shaking her head.

Vinyl felt the pressure build up in her. Calm and collected, I must remain calm and collected, she said to herself? Octavia already had a low opinion of her. No need to make it worse.

"You are the one turning down work," Vinyl said, trying to sound confident, even accusing. "The club owners haven't been the ones stopping you. It was you all along!” This sounds so false. Why do I keep relying on plays for phrases? “You've been around half the nightclubs in Canterlot. If you wanted you could've been booked non-stop and have enough bits to live adequately!"

"'twas too bloody good to be true," Octavia snorted, walking by. "Just can't keep away, can ya, love?"

Hardly had words more bitterly been spoken. Not hatred, rather the annoyance one reserves for a foal that keeps tagging along. The DJ made a few more steps, then looked over her shoulder.

"Come along," Octavia said, sighing. "Just say i', love. T'is not bloody changing me mind."

"What if I could offer you something you want?" Now was the time for Vinyl to make her move. "Would you reconsider then?"

"Princess, will ya give i' a bloody rest?" Octavia rolled her eyes. "T’is no' abou' the splits. No' abou' the food. No'—"

"The Conservatory will never accept a beginner!" Now to see if Lyra's hunch was correct. If not, I'll be in for a huge embarrassment, and somepony will be getting an earful from me.

Luckily, the words had the desired effect. Octavia paused, blinked, hesitated for a few seconds, then walked on, as if nothing had happened. Her silence spoke volumes. No comeback, no condescending remark, meant she was listening. Time to put mother's years of training to good use, Vinyl thought, quickly moving beside the DJ.

"And you are right — money doesn't matter." Start casually, agree with the pony you are talking to. "Even if you were rich as Fancy Pants, you'd never get in. And it's not about talent or potential either." Give her something to think about. Wait a few moments until she is just about to ask the question, then continue. "Everypony there has a music cutie-mark. Some even come from affluent families. You have seven years of experience and accomplishments, yet when it comes to classical training you are worse than a filly."

No reaction. That was good. Any traces of anger would have surfaced by this point. The fact that they hadn't, meant that Octavia really wanted to become a classical musician and was willing to listen to a "spoilt snobbish mare" to have even the slightest chance of succeeding. Come to think of it, she and Vinyl weren't all that different — both were chasing after an absurd dream that was in a world they didn't belong to.

"I can teach you all you need to know," Vinyl said. Hide the hesitation, hide the hesitation. "History, theory, everything. I can also teach you how to talk, how to behave, how to eat." She let out an audible sigh. Establish a connection with the listener. "And I know somepony who can teach you how to play strings. Properly. In any event, it will be considerably better than sneaking to practice sessions."

"Y'er not jossing me?" Octavia glanced sideways at Vinyl.

"No jossing." Vinyl assured. Now add a humorous remark. "And no Trotney."

Octavia snorted. It wasn't absolutely clear if she found it funny or not. More likely she did, though. From what Vinyl had observed, the DJ was not one to spare others her opinion on anything.

The two mares walked on in silence. As much as Vinyl wanted, she didn't dare say a word. She had made her offer and now it was up to Octavia to respond. Any comment, no matter what, could be interpreted in the wrong way and that would end up being counterproductive.

They passed a food stall, then another. Strangely enough, it was Vinyl who felt a desire to buy something. Skipping breakfast and lunch definitely didn't seem as smart as it had several hours ago. Even the smell of roasted chestnuts was enough to get her to salivate. Keep it together! Vinyl bitterly regretted not listening to Glitter. Maybe that mare actually knows a thing or two about life? What am I thinking?! Of course, she doesn't. I just have to be a bit more careful in future.

"Let's 'ave a bite first." Octavia broke the silence, filling Vinyl with secret gratitude. "Me treat."

Quite unexpected, though definitely welcome. To increase the confusion, Octavia didn't just go to the first food stall on their path. Instead, she continued to the centre of Canterlot and right into The Silver Horseshoe — a nice place, and extremely expensive by the DJ's standards. Can she seriously afford this? Vinyl wondered. Knowing the earth pony’s financial situation, a meal here seemed more than a little excessive.

Not bothered one bit, Octavia went to the first free table by the windows and sat down. A quick nod to the waiter and two menus were placed at their table. Am I missing something? You act, as if you are a regular here. The order was a double tray of wheat cracker sandwiches for four, along with a small aperitif. Everything was paid for on the spot... by Octavia. This was the first time Vinyl had seen her carry this many bits.

"Fan mail, love," Octavia said, seeing the way Vinyl was staring at her. "Jossers still send 'em me way."

The explanation didn't seem remotely plausible, but Vinyl nodded all the same.

"I got me mark playin' violin," the earth mate began. "Was bloody difficult! Me mum tol' me I can neva' do it, so I di' all the same, just ta show 'er. Four bloody months! I di'n't even 'old it right. Placed i' 'tween two chairs an' moved the bow like a bloody saw! Go' one melody done. T'was enough."

The mental image was horrendous. Vinyl could only cringe thinking what the violin had been put through. No wonder you managed to get one performance out of it. The poor instrument had probably cut its own strings, committing ritual suicide at the thought what pain it had caused to Equestria.

"'ad to throw it out after." Octavia grabbed a cracker sandwich. Apparently, her appetite remained the same. "Got me mark, though. Then di' what any stupid josser would."

"You left home and tried to find a music instructor who would teach you—" Vinyl started and abruptly stopped. The stare Octavia gave her spoke volumes. Ashamed, the lady levitated a sandwich to her mouth and took a small nibble.

"Went fo' an easier way." Octavia shook her head, along with another snort. "’Tried to find a music instructor’," she repeated amused, causing Vinyl to blush with embarrassment. "Go' into synths, turntables and all that DJ trash. Was jus' me easy way to ge' in'o kings."

"Kings?" Honestly, Octavia. The first thing I'll do is teach you how to talk. Your accent is horrendous as it is without adding random words!

"Strings," the earth mare grumbled. "Classical. Was ten when I go' me mark. 'ooves an' kings don't mix, so I went synth."

That definitely was one way of looking at it. Vinyl had to give her points for originality. As horrible as it sounded, strings were reserved for unicorns. Pegasi mostly focused on horns, and earth ponies on percussion. It hardly was fair, but those were the facts of life. Ponies that used hooves to play stringed instruments were almost unheard of. The few that existed were either geniuses, or conservatory students going through a phase. In a few years most were likely to change speciality or resort to playing unsophisticated instruments... such as banjos.

"Told ye the rest." The DJ made a sign to the waiter to bring a second sandwich tray. "You betta' be bloody certain ya can teach me, love. Ya saw how upset li'l Wisp go'. Guess where he learned tha’."

"I can only let you teach yourself," Vinyl said firmly. It was a phrase her mother liked to use a lot. "As you love to say, this is not your world, it's mine."

"Bloody brilliant." The disappointment was obvious. "Twelve years o' building me rep, and I start from zilch, taking lessons from a blooming princess."

"Only if you want to." Vinyl tried to remain calm. Each time someone used that title, her heart skipped a beat.

"Well, I guess we'll both 'ave to learn 'ow to switch, love."

Finally! The promise Vinyl had worked so hard to get. It was far less dramatic as she imagined, nothing like the books she had read, still for the first time in years she felt... joy? It was almost as if her parents had announced the'll be coming to spend a few months with her. All that remained now, was the difficult part.

The conversation didn't continue for much longer. Vinyl shared her thoughts on her training methods and promised to introduce her to Lyra the following day. Octavia offered they celebrate the event in the Twin, receiving a hesitant "maybe" as an answer. The unicorn had no desire to go there, not after they way she had handled things last time. In any event, that was for the future. There were things to prepare, and talks to have. Talks... the word felt more painful than ever. She was going to have to face Stoic and Presence again.

By the time Vinyl returned, it was already dinner time. She could have returned hours earlier, but the thought of breaking the news to her governess seemed more than a little frightening. The only thing worse would be to face the Duchess herself. Isn't it funny? For the first time I'm glad Mother and Father aren't home.

The mansion was expecting her return — servants with lanterns were waiting at the gate and the main entrance. Vinyl passed by them hardly taking notice. It was only in the dining room that she bothered to take a look. Glitter was there, of course, along with five other ponies that had been in her mother's service for years. All were like statues, awaiting her commands.

"Please inform Miss Presence that I'd like her to join me." Vinyl's voice was calm and clear, befitting her pedigree. "And let Chef know I am ready to be served."

The faint sound of hooves indicated her orders were acknowledged. Less than a minute later, Presence arrived. There was not a trace of joy on her face, merely the obedient look of one come to serve the lady of the manor.

"Take a seat, if you please," Vinyl said. The governess could not disobey. With a slight frown she did so, just as the griffon Chef entered with his host of assistants. Tonight's dish was mushroom cream soup with a side dish of marinated radish garnished with parsley, accompanied by an exotic petal salad. As much as she wanted to compliment him, Vinyl had to be curt. Thankfully, a few words of flattery, along with thanks, were more than enough.

"I have found somepony to tutor me," Vinyl said, between spoonfuls. "Contemporary music. DJing to be precise."

"DJing," the governess repeated, her disappointment clear.

"This shall require my schedule to be reorganized," Vinyl continued, ignoring the comment.

"I suppose you'd like me to inform your previous music tutors that their services would no longer be required?"

"Not in the least." Vinyl looked her governess in the eye. "I would like to limit fencing to two times per week, embroidery and etiquette to one, and increase literature to three. I would also like to have my evenings free."

The governess raised a brown. You weren't expecting this, were you! Vinyl smiled on the inside. So far so good. Now for the most difficult part.

"I would also like your help." Vinyl levitated a book in to her lips. "All this might have started as an act of rebellion against my mother, but I assure you I am quite serious in pursuing it to fruition."

"I have no doubt, young miss. But DJing?" The older unicorn shook her head. "This is not something her Grace would approve of. And before you start making comparisons to your father or cousin, they are stallions. As such they are allowed a certain degree of frivolity. Nothing is expected of either of them. You, on the other hoof, are to become Duchess of Canterlot one day. Thus, you will be measured by a different standard."

"I am not Duchess yet!" Vinyl said sharply. "I have barely turned eighteen. If this is the cutie-mark I was given, I intend to make full use of my potential."

"And that is commendable, but DJing..." Another sigh followed. "You know I have support you in all of your whims, but this... I fear you are wasting your talents. Is this really what you want, Vinyl?"

Hearing her name uttered made Vinyl shiver, as if a sudden draft had passed through the room.

"You have so much potential." The governess leaned forward.

"Potential without freedom to express it means nothing! You know as well as I that there is no way in Tartarus I'd be allowed to do anything in front of a large audience. Possibly a small performance at a soirée, and that is if I'm lucky."

"Too much freedom could be as hazardous as no freedom at all," Presence countered. "You are not your cousin, young miss. You have parents that care about you. Today you sneak out to go to nightclubs. Tomorrow, who knows? Don't forget you don't have your cousin's health."

The health issues — always the trump card in an argument. Vinyl hated being reminded of it. Health concerns were the reason she couldn't go along with her father as a filly, or why home lessons were preferred to normal school. I really dislike it when you do that. So what if I am a little smaller and more delicate than the average unicorn? Don't you dare to assume I'm anything but normal!

"Do you believe you could stop me?" There was a singly shiver in Vinyl's voice. "Even if you had the authority to do so?"

The answer was not spoken, but clearly heard.

"I would rather have your and Stoic's support, and focus on developing my talent, than thinking of ways to go around you." Vinyl made a sign to her handmaid to clear the table. "The last few days have shown me I am more capable of finding solutions than I thought. Personally, I wouldn't want to test that theory on something as useless as escaping my own manor."

"Nopony would, young miss." The governess said curtly.

"Is there anything more, Miss Presence?" Vinyl stood up. The governess merely shook her head. "Very well, I'll be in my room."

The moment Vinyl entered her room and closed the door, her whole body began to shake. Stars, what have I done? there was no telling what was scarier — having an actual conversation with Presence or taking control of her life. Pouting and sarcasm was so much easier, but that was the behaviour of a filly. And, of course, there was the looming fear of Vinyl's parents. How would they react when they learned of this? Oh, stars, my parents! I haven't even read their latest mails. I really should. Not just yet, though. Now, I could use some sleep.

* * *

The idea was among the worst Lyra had had, and that was putting it mildly. The last few days she had hopped from one disaster to the next, doubling the ante each time. Then again, that was the only way to win big. Once she's done with this major inconvenience she'd have her prize. That in itself made everything worth it.

Taking a deep breath the unicorn put on her best smile and entered the nightclub. Like most clubs on the outskirts of Canterlot it was full of earth ponies. No bouncer stopped her going in — she might be a unicorn, but she was also famous. There hardly was a club in Canterlot that she hadn't frequented at one time or other. The Crucible was one of the better places, although a bit small for Lyra's taste. Tonight she wasn't coming here for fun, however.

"Lyra!" A wave of cheers filled the place at her arrival. Cool! Still haven't lost it! She smiled, levitating herself a few steps in the air.

A few air kisses, several dozen hoofbumps, and the loudest "hello, pones" she could muster later, Lyra was sitting comfortably in the best seat in the club — the centre of the bar. It definitely was nice to be well known.

"The usual?" The bar pony asked — a dark pegasus mare with crimson mane. Lyra couldn't help but smile.

"Looking good, boss." The musician winked. "Just something light. I'm not here for the party."

"Oh?" The mare poured a transparent liquid into a small bowl and slid it gently towards Lyra. "I never thought I'd live to see the day." Faint traces of a Saddle Arabian accent showed through her speech. "Anything troubling you?"

"Nah." Lyra waved a hoof then gulped down the drink in one go. Tasty! I've missed this. "Am here to have a word with of your DJs," she said, placing a hoof over her cup before the bar pony could refill it. "I'm here to see her." For a moment, Lyra's joyful expression was replaced by pure unadulterated hatred.

The redmaned mare glanced at the dance floor. Octavia was visible a head above the crowd, playing beats from her music throne. Lyra also took notice. If she could use a spell to zap that detestable DJ in front of everypony she would. Not now, though. Octavia was not worth Lyra tarnishing her reputation, not yet at least. You think you're such a big shot, don't you? The unicorn snorted.

"Mel still has half an hour before break," the bar pony said. "I could make her take it now... if you don't start any trouble."

"Hey, do I look like the kind of pony that starts trouble?" Lyra laughed. "It's fine. I don't hold a grudge. I just want to talk to her. Totally different matter." The dark mare didn't seem at all convinced, but gave a slight nod. "And thirty minutes are fine. I'll wait."

Aether guitar and violin? Lyra thought. Buck you, Mel. If you weren't this good I'd... Calm. I must be calm. This is for Vi. One had to admit, though, the ease with which Octavia managed to combine seemingly uncombinable instruments was nothing short of incredible. Piece after piece the melody twisted and turned, ever-changing into something different. And each time the crowd would go wild.

"How many gigs did you give her?" Lyra asked the par pony.

"Three per month," the mare replied. "She wanted two at first, but when I agreed, she went with three."

"You do know she has gigs at other places too, right?" Lyra asked innocently.

"When you've filled stadiums, you can do as you wish." The bar pony poured Lyra another drink. "I'll get her for you."

"Oh, I'll be outside." The unicorn shrugged. She was hoping that her comment would get Octavia in at least a little bit of trouble. Failing that, it was best they had a talk outside, where nopony could interrupt them. "Always fun seeing you, Silk Road." She smiled widely, then teleported onto the street.

Maybe I should have had something stronger to drink? Lyra could still go back in and get something before the talk. The temptation was there, but she decided against it. She'd be done in a moment and then she could finally get back to her place. Actually, she might do something far better. Lyra's smile widened.

It didn't take long for Octavia to appear. Lyra could hear her thick accent way before she could see the mare herself. Probably accepting "gifts" from her fans again. DJ grandmaster or not, that was something that infuriated the unicorn. That mud slut! There were times Octavia only came to her parties for the food!

"Oi!" the DJ shouted. "I hear' ya wanted to—" she stopped, giving Lyra an uncertain look. "Nutter? Tha' you?"

"Evening, Mel," Lyra said through her teeth. How I hate that nickname!

"Par'y Nutter." Octavia trooped to her, smile on face. "Can' believe me bloomin' eyes. Wha' ya doin' 'ere, love?"

"Never call me that!" Strings, I hate her! I really hate her! "I'm just here to tell you I'll be teaching you how to play... strings. Or find somepony else to, whatever's easiest."

"Buckin' sauce!" The earth mare completely ignored Lyra. "When Princess tol' me Lyra would 'elp with strings, never thought would be you, love. Ya 'aven't touched an instrument in what? Months?"

"I can play just as well as always did, and you know it!" Lyra was doing her utmost not to shout, yet it wasn't working. Such an annoying muddy! You always were! "Look, I can't stand you, Mel! Not since you set hoof here! Leave it to me and you'd be living in that pigsty forever! Vi thinks you can teach her DJing. So, you help her, I help you and we leave it at that!"

"You feeling ‘right, love?" Octavia tilted her head slightly back.

"So be very, very careful, Mel!" Lyra continued, nostrils flaring. "If you hurt her in any way, or you string her along without teaching her... I will hurt you worse than you can imagine. I don't care how many fights you've been in, I'll twist you so bad with magic that your hooves will melt off!" She stopped, breathing heavily. Lyra didn't like making threats. This was probably the third time she had done so, though it felt just as difficult as the first. Much to her surprise, Octavia seemed unusually calm. In fact she was smiling... genuinely.

"Thanks for the warning, love," Octavia said with as little Trotny accent as she could manage. "Will keep it in mind." The DJ then patted Lyra on the shoulder twice, before heading back into the club. "Oh," she stopped at the entrance, "I've been knifed five times before, so you know."

Crap! Lyra thought, alone once more in front of the nightclub. This could have gone better...