The Best Time of Our Livesby ThisIsMyFateNowChaptersChapter 1 - A New StudentChapter 2 - Magic MissileChapter 3 - A Look BackChapter 4 - A New BeginningChapter 5 - FreedomChapter 6 - Starting OverChapter 7 - The Bottom Drops OutChapter 8 - All's WellChapter 1 - A New Student “Welcome New Students” the brilliant banner proclaims, hanging just over the entrance to the old building. Smiling, the white mare with with a brushed electric blue mane pulled into a ponytail walks through the doors of the Canterlot Preparatory Academy, relieved that she is finally here. All of the hard work, petitions, even an audience with Princess Celestia. All of it to get here to this moment. With a smile on her face and a pep in her step, Vinyl Scratch walks through the doors… and right into another pony. Blinking rapidly, the white mare wonders briefly why everything is upside down. Glancing around, she notes that it was she, rather than the world, whom is upside down. Righting herself and grabbing the glasses that had fallen off, she turns to look at the other pony that had been involved in this minor collision. A light grey mare with a dark grey mane and tail stands there, glaring at her while adjusting the pink bowtie around her neck. “Excuse me! Watch where you’re going!” she says rather forcefully. Rather taken aback, the white mare levitates a notepad and pen out from her the spilled contents of her saddlebags and scratches out a brief apology before showing the other mare. “What, you can’t say ‘I’m sorry’,” the grey mare asks with a sneer “are you deaf or something?” Stepping back in recoil, Vinyl scratches out Not deaf. Just mute. Advancing on her, the grey mare continues with her sneer “Then what are you even doing here? I’m sure there’s a school for “special” ponies like you. This is a school for gifted ponies. Ones that are actually talented at things.” With a flick of her tail, the grey mare suddenly turns and leaves a shocked Vinyl to try and recover from the verbal bombardment. Shaking her head after a few moments, the white unicorn collects her things and places her saddlebags back on her. Glancing around she notices a magic mint unicorn with a lyre cutie mark trotting over. “I see you’ve met the school’s protégé. That’s Octavia Melody and I’m Lyra Heartstrings,” the unicorn says extending a hoof in greeting. ”I’m Vinyl Scratch.” the white unicorn scribbles, giving Lyra a friendly hoof bump in return. “I’m guessing that you can’t speak, can you?” ”How did you know?” “I overheard Octavia. In fact, most of the ponies at the entrance heard Octavia. And judging by the fact that you have yet to speak and you’re responding by writing your replies, leads me to believe that you are mute.” Nodding in agreement, Vinyl smiles a bit uncertainly. Offering her a reassuring smile, Lyra continues “I see that your cutie mark is a double eighth note. What instrument do you play?” ”Piano. I’ve spent a better part of my life playing up until recently, but I’ve started to play again. Only this time, I’m working on writing my own music.” “That’s awesome! Are you taking the musical composition course?” Feeling more relaxed now that Lyra seemed to not be on the side of Octavia, Vinyl nods enthusiastically. Once more she scratches out a note on her pad, holding it for Lyra to see. “Registration? I know that you get your schedule and what not over in the Auditorium. If you’re looking for the Office, it’s just off the right of the entrance you just came through.” Pointing towards the Auditorium, she nods her head and starts to head to the open sets of doors. Feeling Lyra settle in beside her, they set off to complete registration and see what the first day would hold. ~~~ Sighing with relief at the sound of the bell, Vinyl packs up her bags and heads to her locker to grab the rest of her books. Who knew that there would be so much homework on their first day? With her saddlebags bulging, she heads on out and starts to work her way to the train station. It’s been a long day and she still had to work tonight. Thankfully, work is one thing she is getting better at all the time. Slipping a couple of bits into the machine, she selects her ticket for the next tram which should be arriving about… now. With an ear piercing whistle, the squealing brakes of the Royal Metro Blue Line brought the seven car tram to halt, the doors lining up perfectly with the turnstiles of the station. As a hiss of hydraulics announce the tram doors opening, a crush of ponies flood out from the tram and on to the waiting platform of the Canterlot Central Metro Hub. Threading her way through the crowd, Vinyl makes a mad dash, leaping into the tram as the doors start to close. The anal retentiveness of the ponies that run Royal Metro was a bit irritating at times, but she couldn’t complain as she was able to usually get anywhere within Canterlot within five seconds of the scheduled times. Glancing around at the nearly empty car, she trots to a seat and lifts her saddlebags off, setting them on the seat as she climbs up next to them. WIth a jolt, the tram starts to move, carrying her towards her home. As the minutes passed, Vinyl couldn't help but reflect on the day and how it was fulfilling and at the same time strangely lacking. She had worked so hard to get here, especially over the past two years. Now that she was finally here though, is it what she really wanted? Sure, her mother had dreamed of getting her into Canterlot Prep with the goal of heading off the Conservatory next, but what if life had other things in store for her? Sighing, she gives up on the argument that she has had so many times with herself. The tram’s clock shows that she still has 32 minutes before she reaches her destination. Turning to the bulging saddlebags next to her, she grabs the first textbook and opens it to the page she had marked at the end of class and gets started on the day’s work. ~~~ Listening to the muffled chants of the crowd out front in one of the many mid to lower end dance clubs in Canterlot, Aurora Aetherica, DJ-PON3 glances over herself and checks her appearance in the mirror one more time. Hair spiky and unruly? Check. Signature shades on? Check. Cutie mark hidden? Oops. Concentrating slightly, the unicorn’s horn lights with the cerise glow of her magic as she casts a spell, hiding her cutie mark. Taking a couple of deep breaths, she flashes her famous grin to her reflection and trots out to the DJ Booth as the house announcer finishes hyping the crowd. Grabbing the mic, she shouts “Are you ponies ready to dance?” as she powers on her turntables and grabs the first record of the night. Placing the record on the soft velvet, she swings the needle around and sets it precisely at the start of a slow build up. As the bass starts to thrum and pulse with the sound of a kick drum, she looks out over her rapt audience and grins, waiting for what was to happen next. Everypony’s breath is waiting in anticipation of the music. Suddenly, after a slow build of of bass and strings, the music goes silent for a couple of heartbeats. Nopony moves. Nopony dares to breath. As the sound on the record ceases, she moves the volume of table one up, slamming the club with a driving bass line and a cacophony of sounds, causing everypony to go mad. Just like that, DJ-PON3 has hooked the club and settles into her routine. Glancing back, she starts to formulate an order of records and moves from crate to crate to start getting her choices set. Headphones in place, she deftly transitions from one record to the next, bringing the crowd up with her to the breaking point before bringing them back down. Cycle after cycle, she masterfully works the tables and brought the crowd along for the ride. Grinning from ear to ear, she loses herself to the music, forgetting her worldly troubles for now. Chapter 2 - Magic Missile With a tired yawn, Vinyl collects her books from her Musical Theory class and heads to the cafeteria to see about getting some food. Traversing the halls, she bumps into Lyra who gives her a friendly and reassuring smile. “Hungry?” the green unicorn asks, as her stomach gives off a rather obvious growl. Grinning and nodding, Vinyl trotted alongside Lyra as the two thread their way through the mass of students all making their way to the cafeteria. Breathing in deeply, Vinyl can tell that the day’s special is toasted lilly and clover sandwiches. Levitating a sandwich onto her tray and grabbing a carton of apple juice, the two unicorns finish selecting their meals and head over to the rather bored earth pony behind the register to pay. Transaction complete, Lyra points out an empty table and make their way to it, grateful to be out of the way. Sitting down, the ponies set their bags on the table and dig into their sandwiches, not speaking until both mares were sitting back comfortably, appetite sated. Leaning forward, Lyra breaks the silence, “How are you finding the school?” “It’s great. I’m really glad I’m here.” she writes with a smile. “I for one, am glad you’re here.” Blushing at the compliment, Vinyl flips to a clean sheet, writing her response “I’m so glad that I met you. It’s been awhile since I’ve had a friend.” “Well, I am happy to be your friend! Is there anything you like to do besides play music?” Hesitantly, Vinyl nods and lightly scratches out something lightly on her notepad. Squinting her eyes, Lyra can’t seem to see what’s been written and looks to Vinyl with the lingering question in her eyes. With a sigh and a blush, Vinyl writes her answer more firmly and shows Lyra. “Dungeons And Dragons?” she asks tapping her hoof against her chin, “I think there’s a couple of ponies here that play. Want to go meet them?” Grinning sheepishly Vinyl nods and collects her things, placing her saddlebags back on and wrapping the tray and plate in a field of magic, levitating them over to the dish area. Turning back to Lyra, she motions to lead on. As the two saunter through the lunch room, they hear the distinct voices of the various groups contributing to the low roar that is lunch time conversation. Through it all, they hear Octavia holding court. Her voice cutting a swath through the multitude of voices, the High Canterlot accent distinct. Glancing in her direction, Vinyl notices that she’s surrounded by other well-to-do fillies and colts who are hanging on every word she says. “Someone has let their own self-importance go to their head,” she thought with a grimace, following Lyra to the other end of the cafeteria to a table laden with Fantasy Roleplaying Books and a DM screen. The rattle of dice barely discernable over the sound of the cafeteria. Feeling more comfortable than she had in some time, she turns to Lyra. “Thank you so much. I know that this type of thing probably isn’t up your alley, but I would still like to hang out with you later.” Vinyl wrote out, holding the notebook for Lyra to see. “That sounds good,” Lyra says with a smile before trotting off to join some of her other friends. Grinning, Vinyl turns to the table and holds her notebook up introducing herself to the other ponies gathered around the table. The five other ponies sitting around the table were all rendered speechless by the mare with the electric blue main pulled into a ponytail asking to join them and their game. Mouth agape, the DM nodded and motions to an empty seat at the round table. Setting her bags next to her, she removes a character sheet, sliding it to the DM for approval and waits as the game resumes. The other ponies make brief introductions, still stunned that a filly of all things, wants to join them. Shaking their heads to clear the stupor, the others turn back to the DM, waiting for the game to resume. Glancing down at his notes the DM launches back into weaving a tale, letting Vinyl become familiar with some of the plot before working her into the story. With a jarring ring, the bell echoes throughout the lunch room, calling the students to their classes. While Vinyl is finishing packing up, she hears a distinct voice cut through the shuffle of ponies heading back to class. “Looks like our special student is also a huge nerd. As if we couldn’t tell by the dorky glasses and sad ponytail.” Octavia cut in with a cruel sneer to the other ponies with her. Face flushing red with embarrassment, Vinyl shoves the rest of her things into saddlebags before dashing off to get away from Octavia. Tears flowing from her eyes, Vinyl races through the halls to get to her next class, trying to ignore the cutting words of Octavia. Passing by Lyra, she doesn’t even see the unicorn give her a worried look. Turning around she trotted after the crying unicorn, Lyra followed her into an empty class room, sitting next to Vinyl. Slipping a hoof over her withers, Lyra tries to comfort her. “Hey now. I know she’s not the nicest of ponies, but don’t let her get to you like this.” Sniffling, Vinyl nods, wiping the tears from her eyes. Looking to Lyra, she writes out “How do you ignore somepony that seems to have it out for you?” “I know it’s going to be hard, but don’t acknowledge her. She lives off ponies reacting to her. If you don’t respond, she should leave you alone.” Nodding, she finishes drying her eyes and collects her bags, letting Lyra lead her out and off to their next class. ~~~ Grinning, DJ-PON3 slips her records back into their sleeves and powers down her turntables. As the last few stragglers head to the door, she heads to the back of the house. Using her magic to open the door, she slips inside the room set aside for the House DJ. Removing her signature shades and letting the spell hiding her cutie mark fade, she grabs a bottle of water and sits down. As she sips her water, she notices an envelope addressed to her on the coffee table. Frowning slightly, she levitates it to her and opens it, pulling the enclosed paper out. To: DJ-PON3 Club Aurora Aetherica From: Fire Hooves Club Trot Subject: House DJ Dear DJ-PON3, After the raging success that you’ve brought to Club Aurora Aetherica, we’ve heard nothing but good things about you. I would personally like you to consider becoming the House DJ of Trot. Your talents are simply stagnating over at Aurora Aetherica. Please let me know what your answer is. Sincerely, Fire Hooves Feeling her eyebrows climb, she finishes reading the short letter. Never did she think that she would actually be asked to work at Trot. Scrunching up her face she considers what to do. Sighing, she stands up and envelopes the letter in her magic as she makes her way to the owner’s office. Knocking twice, she enters as Night Promenade looks up from behind his desk. “What can I do for you Vinyl?” the large stallion asks. Floating the letter over to him, she waits for him to read it. Sighing with resignation, the stallion smirks slightly as he looked back at her. “I know you’ve been looking forward to this and I can’t say I’m surprised. You’ve been packing the house for the past few months. You were bound to be noticed. Well, this is your decision Vinyl. I’m not going to stand in your way if you want to go.” Grinning, Vinyl trots over to Night and gives him a hug. With her smile growing wider she says “Thank you so much Night. You’ve been wonderful. I’ll swing by tomorrow to pack up my stuff. No matter where I go, you guys will always hold a special place in my heart." “You deserve this girl. After all you’ve been through, it’s nice to see that something’s finally going your way.” With that, Vinyl heads back to the DJ’s room and pens her response before heading home. Chapter 3 - A Look BackA wracking cough forced the filly to sit upright as she brought her hooves up to try and cover her mouth. Gasping for breath as the cough subsides, she flopped back down, a shiver running through her frail body. Weakly, the white unicorn reached over to the nightstand to pick up the glass of water with her hooves, too tired to even use her magic. Bringing the water to her lips, she drank deeply, the water trying to sooth the burning sensation in the back of her throat. With a pained sigh, she set the now empty glass back on the table and weekly tried to call out “Mom.” Voice a rasping scratch barely audible to any ears other than her own. Summoning the last of her magic reserves, she tugs weakly at the cord next to the door, a bell resonating throughout the house. Quickly the sound of trotting hooves could be heard as two unicorns entered the room. A dainty mare with a brilliant yellow coat and a musical staff of a cutie mark rushes to the bedside as a stallion in a white labcoat with a red cross cutie mark looks on in concern. Vinyl’s mom, Charming Octave, noted the empty water glass. “Do you need more water sweetie?” she asked, concern painted on her face. Nodding, Vinyl opened her mouth to speak, but no sound emerged. Looking back at the doctor in fear, Charming levitates the glass and turns back to Vinyl, “Now, Doctor Cross is going to examine you to see if there’s any improvement while I get you a fresh glass of water.” With that, she trots off, concern still evident on her face as the Doctor approaches the sick filly, stethoscope already in place. A light blue aura of magic enveloped the medical device and gently brought one end to rest on the filly’s chest. As the doctor started to perform his checks on the frail filly, she was wracked by another bout of coughing, leaving her gasping for air. Hurriedly, the doctor finished with stethoscope and lowered his head, using his magic to run a full magical exam. As the magic coursed through her body, the doctor’s face grows increasingly worried. Noting the expression on Doctor Cross’s face, Vinyl can’t help but shudder as she sees his expression grow ever darker. All of her inner musings are brought to a halt as Charming returns with a fresh glass of water, handing it to the filly. Shaking slightly, Vinyl managed to drink some of the water, the rest splashing over her face and onto the bed. Sighing, the doctor motioned Charming to a corner of the room. “She’s not improved at all,” he said with a sigh. “Right now, all we can do is try and make her comfortable, but in my opinion, she’s not going to survive the night.” Eyes welling with tears, the mare looked pleadingly at the doctor “Is there anything I can do? Anything at all?” “We’ve tried everything ma’am. I don’t know what exactly is causing this, but her body just doesn’t have the energy to keep fighting anymore. I’ve seen her eat plates of food with no result. It’s like her body has given up.” “What if she was able to take in more energy? Do you think that would help?” “Madam, what you’re suggesting is suicide! I can not in good conscious allow you to do that!” After a brief pause the yellow mare sighed. “Thank you doctor. I guess for now, I will just make her as comfortable as I can,” she said before trotting back to the sick filly and giving her a loving and tender nuzzle. Doctor Cross gathers up his instruments before turning back to the other two in the room. “I shall be at my office if you me for anything else, madam,” he says before trotting out. Sinking back into the deep pillows on the bed, Vinyl fitfully went back to sleep. As terrible nightmares caused the sleeping Vinyl to toss and turn, they were rapidly abolished by a steadily growing light. One that shattered the various monsters it touched. Staggering back from the intensity of the light, Vinyl blinks, and is slowly awakened by the same light, illuminating her bedroom. Glancing at the source, she sees that the light is coming from the horn of a unicorn. She throws her hooves up to shield her eyes as the light grows brighter. As she tries to discern the source of the light, she felt a renewed strength flow through her as a strange magic coursed through her body. Feeling the magic start to burn her from within, she opens her mouth to scream but no sounds emerge. Rapidly, the pain overwhelmed her and second before she passes out she barely hears “I love you.” ~~~ Vinyl sits up suddenly, shuddering at the memory of her recurring dream. As tears stream down her face, she repositions herself, clutching a pillow to her body, trying to fall back to sleep. Sobs wracking her body, she lays there until the sun comes up, calling her to get ready for another day of school. Chapter 4 - A New Beginning Glancing around, Vinyl notes how much the school had transformed for Homecoming Week. For a school that didn’t even have a hoofball team, everyone was really getting into the celebration. Mentally shrugging, she continues on toward her next stop, the music room dedicated to members of the band. Not to be confused with the Orchestral Room mind you. Walking through the door, she trots over to the school’s grand piano and slips her staff notebook out of her saddlebag, setting it and a pencil on the bench before taking her seat. Hooves poised over the keys, she starts at the beginning of the piece she’s working on. Starting softly, she closes her eyes, music already committed to memory, hooves gently building up a sweet and soft melody, crescendoing up to a brief bridge, letting the music flow through her. With the enchanting melody echoing from the back of the room, she lets it carry her away past the point of written music into the uncharted unknown. Even as she plunges forth, Vinyl is able to accurately recall all that she’s played, a discerning ear twitching slightly as she misses a key and hits the sharp. Grimacing, she continues to play, visualising what she’ll be writing shortly. As this variant comes to an end, she is shaken from her revery by the sound of hooves clapping together. Eyes flying open in surprise, she sees Lyra and a beige coated mare with a pink streaked blue mane and tail applauding her performance. Blushing at the unexpected praise, she waves the two over. “Vinyl this is my fillyfriend, Bon Bon. She’s here in the culinary program!” Lyra exclaims, motioning to the other mare. Grinning, Vinyl levitates her notebook and pens out “It’s very nice to meet you!” “And you as well,” Bon Bon says, extending a hoof which Vinyl bumps in return, “Lyra has told me so much about you.” Continuing to blush, she writes out “Any friend of Lyra is a friend of mine.” “Any plans for the big homecoming party?” Lyra asks, looking between Vinyl and Bon Bon. Shaking her head, the white unicorn scratches out “Just working.” “You know you never told me where you work, only that it’s after school and on weekends,” the mint musician muses out loud. Grinning, Vinyl holds the notebook up with only one word on it, “Trot.”. With a giggle she watches as the other two mare’s jaws hit the floor. “How did you manage that?!?!” they both exclaim. “I was asked to work there by Fire Hooves himself.” Since they are staring in disbelief, Vinyl sighs and motions the two closer as she scribbles another note out “Can you two keep a secret?” Nodding in a stunned fashion, the other two don’t think anything could top the fact that Vinyl managed to score a job at the hottest club in Caterlot. Drawing a nervous breath she jots out “I’m not actually mute either.” “WHAT?!?!” they both scream at her. Reeling back from the sudden force of the combined voice, she holds up a hoof to forestall any further outbursts. “Let me explain. First, I have a hard time talking in super stressful situations, so I choose not to. And let’s be honest, my first interactions at this school ratcheted my stress through the roof. So now, I find it easier to continue to write instead of talking. However, I can talk at work because that’s just fun for me and not remotely stressful.” Lyra and Bon Bon nod as they process this and a few things click. Lyra’s eyes shoot open as she realizes who the white mare is better known as. As she opens her mouth, Vinyl quickly puts a hoof over it, silencing her with a blank stare. Still slightly confused, Bon Bon looks between the two before turning back to Lyra. “What is she talking about?” “Imagine Vinyl without the ponytail and purple shades instead of her regular glasses…” Gasping in shock and recognition, Bon Bon stutters “You… you’re… are you really?” Grinning, Vinyl nods. “Now, you both know who I am. Can I trust you to keep all of this a secret?” Still stunned at the revelations, Bon Bon nods, but Lyra asks “Why tell us this?” Sitting back, Vinyl gives Lyra a warm smile and take a few moments to write “You were the first pony to welcome me and treat me like I belong here. Only with that support have I been able to be myself and not a what others want me to be. I have to do that for work. My stage persona is only a very small part of who I am. You are the first real friend I’ve had in a very long time.” Sheepishly, Lyra blushes as the compliment rolls over her. Leaning forward she gives Vinyl a warm hug and whispers “I’m glad you’re my friend.” before roping Bon Bon in to the impromptu group hug. Giggling, all three sit back. “Since I’m making my debut tonight and Trot is opening their doors to all High School students in Canterlot for this week only, how would you two like to attend as my guests? I can get you in with no cover and past the inevitable line,” Vinyl offers. ~~~ “Fillies and Gentlecolts, you’ve heard the news and now without further ado, making her first appearance as the House DJ, I give you DJ-PON3!” Trotting out to thunderous applause, the legendary DJ flashes her trademark grin, lights reflecting back off of her shades. “You ponies ready to bring the roof down?!?!” she shouts as her magic envelops the needle of one of the turntables. “In honor of this first night, we’re going to be kicking it old school.” With that, the needle drops onto the record. For a moment, no pony dares to breath before the sudden roll of the snare drum hits everypony with its intensity. As the beat picks up and the bass floods in, the house goes crazy. Drawing energy from the crowd, Vinyl grins as she levitates the next album on to the other turntable, listening as she adjusts the speed to match the tempo of the first album. With the beat matched, she slams the audio down on the first track as the second track takes hold and flings everypony into a frenzy. With the energy flowing in tune to the music, Vinyl rides the rush from song to song, lulling the club when needed and bringing them back up with a crazed intensity. As the energy ebbs and flows, she drives the music and keeps everypony on their hooves and dancing. Song after song blasts at them at a fevered intensity only to back off shortly after. With more than three hours past, she slows the music down, letting the ponies catch their breath as she motions to the the emcee. Nodding at her, he envelops the mic with his magic and brings it up to his muzzle. “Let’s give it up for the amazing DJ-PON3!!!! We’re going to take a short break while we switch up DJs. Those who have VIP access head on toward that big, burly earth pony and you all will be able to meet with her for a bit before she goes to sign autographs. Up next is our DJ in waiting, Bass Note!” Trotting back to the VIP room, she snags a bottle of cold water, drinking half of it in one go. Letting out a sigh of relief from her parched predicament, she heads over to a seat and waits for the few people who purchased the VIP package to come meet her. As the sound of approaching hooves grows louder, she smiles at nothing in particular, waiting for the door to open. With a stout knock, the door opens quietly as five ponies are ushered in, most with stars in their eyes at meeting a modern musical legend. Getting to her hooves, she saunters over and extends a hoof to the assembled ponies. “Well, I guess you all know who I am. So, what do you want to know?” All at once a small cacophony erupts as the five VIPs clamor for her attention. “Hold on everypony, let’s do this one at a time and let me lay out a few things. You are here to basically hang out with me before I’m mobbed by the rest of the club. So, let’s all relax and take a breath. I’m not going anywhere and for the next 30 minutes, neither are you. There’s time to get to know you all and enjoy ourselves.” As the VIPs work their way over to their seats, Vinyl levitates some bottles of water for anypony that might be thirsty. Snagging another for herself, she sits on her chair and looks to the group. Looking to her left, she points to the first pony and asks “So, what do you want to know?” With the discussion well underway, Vinyl sits back and tries to enjoy those few moments of relaxation before she has to head out and meet the rest of the club. Chapter 5 - FreedomSomething has gone wrong. We don't seem to have an archived copy of that chapter.Chapter 6 - Starting OverSomething has gone wrong. We don't seem to have an archived copy of that chapter.Chapter 7 - The Bottom Drops OutSomething has gone wrong. We don't seem to have an archived copy of that chapter.Chapter 8 - All's WellSomething has gone wrong. We don't seem to have an archived copy of that chapter.
Chapter 1 - A New Student “Welcome New Students” the brilliant banner proclaims, hanging just over the entrance to the old building. Smiling, the white mare with with a brushed electric blue mane pulled into a ponytail walks through the doors of the Canterlot Preparatory Academy, relieved that she is finally here. All of the hard work, petitions, even an audience with Princess Celestia. All of it to get here to this moment. With a smile on her face and a pep in her step, Vinyl Scratch walks through the doors… and right into another pony. Blinking rapidly, the white mare wonders briefly why everything is upside down. Glancing around, she notes that it was she, rather than the world, whom is upside down. Righting herself and grabbing the glasses that had fallen off, she turns to look at the other pony that had been involved in this minor collision. A light grey mare with a dark grey mane and tail stands there, glaring at her while adjusting the pink bowtie around her neck. “Excuse me! Watch where you’re going!” she says rather forcefully. Rather taken aback, the white mare levitates a notepad and pen out from her the spilled contents of her saddlebags and scratches out a brief apology before showing the other mare. “What, you can’t say ‘I’m sorry’,” the grey mare asks with a sneer “are you deaf or something?” Stepping back in recoil, Vinyl scratches out Not deaf. Just mute. Advancing on her, the grey mare continues with her sneer “Then what are you even doing here? I’m sure there’s a school for “special” ponies like you. This is a school for gifted ponies. Ones that are actually talented at things.” With a flick of her tail, the grey mare suddenly turns and leaves a shocked Vinyl to try and recover from the verbal bombardment. Shaking her head after a few moments, the white unicorn collects her things and places her saddlebags back on her. Glancing around she notices a magic mint unicorn with a lyre cutie mark trotting over. “I see you’ve met the school’s protégé. That’s Octavia Melody and I’m Lyra Heartstrings,” the unicorn says extending a hoof in greeting. ”I’m Vinyl Scratch.” the white unicorn scribbles, giving Lyra a friendly hoof bump in return. “I’m guessing that you can’t speak, can you?” ”How did you know?” “I overheard Octavia. In fact, most of the ponies at the entrance heard Octavia. And judging by the fact that you have yet to speak and you’re responding by writing your replies, leads me to believe that you are mute.” Nodding in agreement, Vinyl smiles a bit uncertainly. Offering her a reassuring smile, Lyra continues “I see that your cutie mark is a double eighth note. What instrument do you play?” ”Piano. I’ve spent a better part of my life playing up until recently, but I’ve started to play again. Only this time, I’m working on writing my own music.” “That’s awesome! Are you taking the musical composition course?” Feeling more relaxed now that Lyra seemed to not be on the side of Octavia, Vinyl nods enthusiastically. Once more she scratches out a note on her pad, holding it for Lyra to see. “Registration? I know that you get your schedule and what not over in the Auditorium. If you’re looking for the Office, it’s just off the right of the entrance you just came through.” Pointing towards the Auditorium, she nods her head and starts to head to the open sets of doors. Feeling Lyra settle in beside her, they set off to complete registration and see what the first day would hold. ~~~ Sighing with relief at the sound of the bell, Vinyl packs up her bags and heads to her locker to grab the rest of her books. Who knew that there would be so much homework on their first day? With her saddlebags bulging, she heads on out and starts to work her way to the train station. It’s been a long day and she still had to work tonight. Thankfully, work is one thing she is getting better at all the time. Slipping a couple of bits into the machine, she selects her ticket for the next tram which should be arriving about… now. With an ear piercing whistle, the squealing brakes of the Royal Metro Blue Line brought the seven car tram to halt, the doors lining up perfectly with the turnstiles of the station. As a hiss of hydraulics announce the tram doors opening, a crush of ponies flood out from the tram and on to the waiting platform of the Canterlot Central Metro Hub. Threading her way through the crowd, Vinyl makes a mad dash, leaping into the tram as the doors start to close. The anal retentiveness of the ponies that run Royal Metro was a bit irritating at times, but she couldn’t complain as she was able to usually get anywhere within Canterlot within five seconds of the scheduled times. Glancing around at the nearly empty car, she trots to a seat and lifts her saddlebags off, setting them on the seat as she climbs up next to them. WIth a jolt, the tram starts to move, carrying her towards her home. As the minutes passed, Vinyl couldn't help but reflect on the day and how it was fulfilling and at the same time strangely lacking. She had worked so hard to get here, especially over the past two years. Now that she was finally here though, is it what she really wanted? Sure, her mother had dreamed of getting her into Canterlot Prep with the goal of heading off the Conservatory next, but what if life had other things in store for her? Sighing, she gives up on the argument that she has had so many times with herself. The tram’s clock shows that she still has 32 minutes before she reaches her destination. Turning to the bulging saddlebags next to her, she grabs the first textbook and opens it to the page she had marked at the end of class and gets started on the day’s work. ~~~ Listening to the muffled chants of the crowd out front in one of the many mid to lower end dance clubs in Canterlot, Aurora Aetherica, DJ-PON3 glances over herself and checks her appearance in the mirror one more time. Hair spiky and unruly? Check. Signature shades on? Check. Cutie mark hidden? Oops. Concentrating slightly, the unicorn’s horn lights with the cerise glow of her magic as she casts a spell, hiding her cutie mark. Taking a couple of deep breaths, she flashes her famous grin to her reflection and trots out to the DJ Booth as the house announcer finishes hyping the crowd. Grabbing the mic, she shouts “Are you ponies ready to dance?” as she powers on her turntables and grabs the first record of the night. Placing the record on the soft velvet, she swings the needle around and sets it precisely at the start of a slow build up. As the bass starts to thrum and pulse with the sound of a kick drum, she looks out over her rapt audience and grins, waiting for what was to happen next. Everypony’s breath is waiting in anticipation of the music. Suddenly, after a slow build of of bass and strings, the music goes silent for a couple of heartbeats. Nopony moves. Nopony dares to breath. As the sound on the record ceases, she moves the volume of table one up, slamming the club with a driving bass line and a cacophony of sounds, causing everypony to go mad. Just like that, DJ-PON3 has hooked the club and settles into her routine. Glancing back, she starts to formulate an order of records and moves from crate to crate to start getting her choices set. Headphones in place, she deftly transitions from one record to the next, bringing the crowd up with her to the breaking point before bringing them back down. Cycle after cycle, she masterfully works the tables and brought the crowd along for the ride. Grinning from ear to ear, she loses herself to the music, forgetting her worldly troubles for now.
Chapter 2 - Magic Missile With a tired yawn, Vinyl collects her books from her Musical Theory class and heads to the cafeteria to see about getting some food. Traversing the halls, she bumps into Lyra who gives her a friendly and reassuring smile. “Hungry?” the green unicorn asks, as her stomach gives off a rather obvious growl. Grinning and nodding, Vinyl trotted alongside Lyra as the two thread their way through the mass of students all making their way to the cafeteria. Breathing in deeply, Vinyl can tell that the day’s special is toasted lilly and clover sandwiches. Levitating a sandwich onto her tray and grabbing a carton of apple juice, the two unicorns finish selecting their meals and head over to the rather bored earth pony behind the register to pay. Transaction complete, Lyra points out an empty table and make their way to it, grateful to be out of the way. Sitting down, the ponies set their bags on the table and dig into their sandwiches, not speaking until both mares were sitting back comfortably, appetite sated. Leaning forward, Lyra breaks the silence, “How are you finding the school?” “It’s great. I’m really glad I’m here.” she writes with a smile. “I for one, am glad you’re here.” Blushing at the compliment, Vinyl flips to a clean sheet, writing her response “I’m so glad that I met you. It’s been awhile since I’ve had a friend.” “Well, I am happy to be your friend! Is there anything you like to do besides play music?” Hesitantly, Vinyl nods and lightly scratches out something lightly on her notepad. Squinting her eyes, Lyra can’t seem to see what’s been written and looks to Vinyl with the lingering question in her eyes. With a sigh and a blush, Vinyl writes her answer more firmly and shows Lyra. “Dungeons And Dragons?” she asks tapping her hoof against her chin, “I think there’s a couple of ponies here that play. Want to go meet them?” Grinning sheepishly Vinyl nods and collects her things, placing her saddlebags back on and wrapping the tray and plate in a field of magic, levitating them over to the dish area. Turning back to Lyra, she motions to lead on. As the two saunter through the lunch room, they hear the distinct voices of the various groups contributing to the low roar that is lunch time conversation. Through it all, they hear Octavia holding court. Her voice cutting a swath through the multitude of voices, the High Canterlot accent distinct. Glancing in her direction, Vinyl notices that she’s surrounded by other well-to-do fillies and colts who are hanging on every word she says. “Someone has let their own self-importance go to their head,” she thought with a grimace, following Lyra to the other end of the cafeteria to a table laden with Fantasy Roleplaying Books and a DM screen. The rattle of dice barely discernable over the sound of the cafeteria. Feeling more comfortable than she had in some time, she turns to Lyra. “Thank you so much. I know that this type of thing probably isn’t up your alley, but I would still like to hang out with you later.” Vinyl wrote out, holding the notebook for Lyra to see. “That sounds good,” Lyra says with a smile before trotting off to join some of her other friends. Grinning, Vinyl turns to the table and holds her notebook up introducing herself to the other ponies gathered around the table. The five other ponies sitting around the table were all rendered speechless by the mare with the electric blue main pulled into a ponytail asking to join them and their game. Mouth agape, the DM nodded and motions to an empty seat at the round table. Setting her bags next to her, she removes a character sheet, sliding it to the DM for approval and waits as the game resumes. The other ponies make brief introductions, still stunned that a filly of all things, wants to join them. Shaking their heads to clear the stupor, the others turn back to the DM, waiting for the game to resume. Glancing down at his notes the DM launches back into weaving a tale, letting Vinyl become familiar with some of the plot before working her into the story. With a jarring ring, the bell echoes throughout the lunch room, calling the students to their classes. While Vinyl is finishing packing up, she hears a distinct voice cut through the shuffle of ponies heading back to class. “Looks like our special student is also a huge nerd. As if we couldn’t tell by the dorky glasses and sad ponytail.” Octavia cut in with a cruel sneer to the other ponies with her. Face flushing red with embarrassment, Vinyl shoves the rest of her things into saddlebags before dashing off to get away from Octavia. Tears flowing from her eyes, Vinyl races through the halls to get to her next class, trying to ignore the cutting words of Octavia. Passing by Lyra, she doesn’t even see the unicorn give her a worried look. Turning around she trotted after the crying unicorn, Lyra followed her into an empty class room, sitting next to Vinyl. Slipping a hoof over her withers, Lyra tries to comfort her. “Hey now. I know she’s not the nicest of ponies, but don’t let her get to you like this.” Sniffling, Vinyl nods, wiping the tears from her eyes. Looking to Lyra, she writes out “How do you ignore somepony that seems to have it out for you?” “I know it’s going to be hard, but don’t acknowledge her. She lives off ponies reacting to her. If you don’t respond, she should leave you alone.” Nodding, she finishes drying her eyes and collects her bags, letting Lyra lead her out and off to their next class. ~~~ Grinning, DJ-PON3 slips her records back into their sleeves and powers down her turntables. As the last few stragglers head to the door, she heads to the back of the house. Using her magic to open the door, she slips inside the room set aside for the House DJ. Removing her signature shades and letting the spell hiding her cutie mark fade, she grabs a bottle of water and sits down. As she sips her water, she notices an envelope addressed to her on the coffee table. Frowning slightly, she levitates it to her and opens it, pulling the enclosed paper out. To: DJ-PON3 Club Aurora Aetherica From: Fire Hooves Club Trot Subject: House DJ Dear DJ-PON3, After the raging success that you’ve brought to Club Aurora Aetherica, we’ve heard nothing but good things about you. I would personally like you to consider becoming the House DJ of Trot. Your talents are simply stagnating over at Aurora Aetherica. Please let me know what your answer is. Sincerely, Fire Hooves Feeling her eyebrows climb, she finishes reading the short letter. Never did she think that she would actually be asked to work at Trot. Scrunching up her face she considers what to do. Sighing, she stands up and envelopes the letter in her magic as she makes her way to the owner’s office. Knocking twice, she enters as Night Promenade looks up from behind his desk. “What can I do for you Vinyl?” the large stallion asks. Floating the letter over to him, she waits for him to read it. Sighing with resignation, the stallion smirks slightly as he looked back at her. “I know you’ve been looking forward to this and I can’t say I’m surprised. You’ve been packing the house for the past few months. You were bound to be noticed. Well, this is your decision Vinyl. I’m not going to stand in your way if you want to go.” Grinning, Vinyl trots over to Night and gives him a hug. With her smile growing wider she says “Thank you so much Night. You’ve been wonderful. I’ll swing by tomorrow to pack up my stuff. No matter where I go, you guys will always hold a special place in my heart." “You deserve this girl. After all you’ve been through, it’s nice to see that something’s finally going your way.” With that, Vinyl heads back to the DJ’s room and pens her response before heading home.
Chapter 3 - A Look BackA wracking cough forced the filly to sit upright as she brought her hooves up to try and cover her mouth. Gasping for breath as the cough subsides, she flopped back down, a shiver running through her frail body. Weakly, the white unicorn reached over to the nightstand to pick up the glass of water with her hooves, too tired to even use her magic. Bringing the water to her lips, she drank deeply, the water trying to sooth the burning sensation in the back of her throat. With a pained sigh, she set the now empty glass back on the table and weekly tried to call out “Mom.” Voice a rasping scratch barely audible to any ears other than her own. Summoning the last of her magic reserves, she tugs weakly at the cord next to the door, a bell resonating throughout the house. Quickly the sound of trotting hooves could be heard as two unicorns entered the room. A dainty mare with a brilliant yellow coat and a musical staff of a cutie mark rushes to the bedside as a stallion in a white labcoat with a red cross cutie mark looks on in concern. Vinyl’s mom, Charming Octave, noted the empty water glass. “Do you need more water sweetie?” she asked, concern painted on her face. Nodding, Vinyl opened her mouth to speak, but no sound emerged. Looking back at the doctor in fear, Charming levitates the glass and turns back to Vinyl, “Now, Doctor Cross is going to examine you to see if there’s any improvement while I get you a fresh glass of water.” With that, she trots off, concern still evident on her face as the Doctor approaches the sick filly, stethoscope already in place. A light blue aura of magic enveloped the medical device and gently brought one end to rest on the filly’s chest. As the doctor started to perform his checks on the frail filly, she was wracked by another bout of coughing, leaving her gasping for air. Hurriedly, the doctor finished with stethoscope and lowered his head, using his magic to run a full magical exam. As the magic coursed through her body, the doctor’s face grows increasingly worried. Noting the expression on Doctor Cross’s face, Vinyl can’t help but shudder as she sees his expression grow ever darker. All of her inner musings are brought to a halt as Charming returns with a fresh glass of water, handing it to the filly. Shaking slightly, Vinyl managed to drink some of the water, the rest splashing over her face and onto the bed. Sighing, the doctor motioned Charming to a corner of the room. “She’s not improved at all,” he said with a sigh. “Right now, all we can do is try and make her comfortable, but in my opinion, she’s not going to survive the night.” Eyes welling with tears, the mare looked pleadingly at the doctor “Is there anything I can do? Anything at all?” “We’ve tried everything ma’am. I don’t know what exactly is causing this, but her body just doesn’t have the energy to keep fighting anymore. I’ve seen her eat plates of food with no result. It’s like her body has given up.” “What if she was able to take in more energy? Do you think that would help?” “Madam, what you’re suggesting is suicide! I can not in good conscious allow you to do that!” After a brief pause the yellow mare sighed. “Thank you doctor. I guess for now, I will just make her as comfortable as I can,” she said before trotting back to the sick filly and giving her a loving and tender nuzzle. Doctor Cross gathers up his instruments before turning back to the other two in the room. “I shall be at my office if you me for anything else, madam,” he says before trotting out. Sinking back into the deep pillows on the bed, Vinyl fitfully went back to sleep. As terrible nightmares caused the sleeping Vinyl to toss and turn, they were rapidly abolished by a steadily growing light. One that shattered the various monsters it touched. Staggering back from the intensity of the light, Vinyl blinks, and is slowly awakened by the same light, illuminating her bedroom. Glancing at the source, she sees that the light is coming from the horn of a unicorn. She throws her hooves up to shield her eyes as the light grows brighter. As she tries to discern the source of the light, she felt a renewed strength flow through her as a strange magic coursed through her body. Feeling the magic start to burn her from within, she opens her mouth to scream but no sounds emerge. Rapidly, the pain overwhelmed her and second before she passes out she barely hears “I love you.” ~~~ Vinyl sits up suddenly, shuddering at the memory of her recurring dream. As tears stream down her face, she repositions herself, clutching a pillow to her body, trying to fall back to sleep. Sobs wracking her body, she lays there until the sun comes up, calling her to get ready for another day of school.
Chapter 4 - A New Beginning Glancing around, Vinyl notes how much the school had transformed for Homecoming Week. For a school that didn’t even have a hoofball team, everyone was really getting into the celebration. Mentally shrugging, she continues on toward her next stop, the music room dedicated to members of the band. Not to be confused with the Orchestral Room mind you. Walking through the door, she trots over to the school’s grand piano and slips her staff notebook out of her saddlebag, setting it and a pencil on the bench before taking her seat. Hooves poised over the keys, she starts at the beginning of the piece she’s working on. Starting softly, she closes her eyes, music already committed to memory, hooves gently building up a sweet and soft melody, crescendoing up to a brief bridge, letting the music flow through her. With the enchanting melody echoing from the back of the room, she lets it carry her away past the point of written music into the uncharted unknown. Even as she plunges forth, Vinyl is able to accurately recall all that she’s played, a discerning ear twitching slightly as she misses a key and hits the sharp. Grimacing, she continues to play, visualising what she’ll be writing shortly. As this variant comes to an end, she is shaken from her revery by the sound of hooves clapping together. Eyes flying open in surprise, she sees Lyra and a beige coated mare with a pink streaked blue mane and tail applauding her performance. Blushing at the unexpected praise, she waves the two over. “Vinyl this is my fillyfriend, Bon Bon. She’s here in the culinary program!” Lyra exclaims, motioning to the other mare. Grinning, Vinyl levitates her notebook and pens out “It’s very nice to meet you!” “And you as well,” Bon Bon says, extending a hoof which Vinyl bumps in return, “Lyra has told me so much about you.” Continuing to blush, she writes out “Any friend of Lyra is a friend of mine.” “Any plans for the big homecoming party?” Lyra asks, looking between Vinyl and Bon Bon. Shaking her head, the white unicorn scratches out “Just working.” “You know you never told me where you work, only that it’s after school and on weekends,” the mint musician muses out loud. Grinning, Vinyl holds the notebook up with only one word on it, “Trot.”. With a giggle she watches as the other two mare’s jaws hit the floor. “How did you manage that?!?!” they both exclaim. “I was asked to work there by Fire Hooves himself.” Since they are staring in disbelief, Vinyl sighs and motions the two closer as she scribbles another note out “Can you two keep a secret?” Nodding in a stunned fashion, the other two don’t think anything could top the fact that Vinyl managed to score a job at the hottest club in Caterlot. Drawing a nervous breath she jots out “I’m not actually mute either.” “WHAT?!?!” they both scream at her. Reeling back from the sudden force of the combined voice, she holds up a hoof to forestall any further outbursts. “Let me explain. First, I have a hard time talking in super stressful situations, so I choose not to. And let’s be honest, my first interactions at this school ratcheted my stress through the roof. So now, I find it easier to continue to write instead of talking. However, I can talk at work because that’s just fun for me and not remotely stressful.” Lyra and Bon Bon nod as they process this and a few things click. Lyra’s eyes shoot open as she realizes who the white mare is better known as. As she opens her mouth, Vinyl quickly puts a hoof over it, silencing her with a blank stare. Still slightly confused, Bon Bon looks between the two before turning back to Lyra. “What is she talking about?” “Imagine Vinyl without the ponytail and purple shades instead of her regular glasses…” Gasping in shock and recognition, Bon Bon stutters “You… you’re… are you really?” Grinning, Vinyl nods. “Now, you both know who I am. Can I trust you to keep all of this a secret?” Still stunned at the revelations, Bon Bon nods, but Lyra asks “Why tell us this?” Sitting back, Vinyl gives Lyra a warm smile and take a few moments to write “You were the first pony to welcome me and treat me like I belong here. Only with that support have I been able to be myself and not a what others want me to be. I have to do that for work. My stage persona is only a very small part of who I am. You are the first real friend I’ve had in a very long time.” Sheepishly, Lyra blushes as the compliment rolls over her. Leaning forward she gives Vinyl a warm hug and whispers “I’m glad you’re my friend.” before roping Bon Bon in to the impromptu group hug. Giggling, all three sit back. “Since I’m making my debut tonight and Trot is opening their doors to all High School students in Canterlot for this week only, how would you two like to attend as my guests? I can get you in with no cover and past the inevitable line,” Vinyl offers. ~~~ “Fillies and Gentlecolts, you’ve heard the news and now without further ado, making her first appearance as the House DJ, I give you DJ-PON3!” Trotting out to thunderous applause, the legendary DJ flashes her trademark grin, lights reflecting back off of her shades. “You ponies ready to bring the roof down?!?!” she shouts as her magic envelops the needle of one of the turntables. “In honor of this first night, we’re going to be kicking it old school.” With that, the needle drops onto the record. For a moment, no pony dares to breath before the sudden roll of the snare drum hits everypony with its intensity. As the beat picks up and the bass floods in, the house goes crazy. Drawing energy from the crowd, Vinyl grins as she levitates the next album on to the other turntable, listening as she adjusts the speed to match the tempo of the first album. With the beat matched, she slams the audio down on the first track as the second track takes hold and flings everypony into a frenzy. With the energy flowing in tune to the music, Vinyl rides the rush from song to song, lulling the club when needed and bringing them back up with a crazed intensity. As the energy ebbs and flows, she drives the music and keeps everypony on their hooves and dancing. Song after song blasts at them at a fevered intensity only to back off shortly after. With more than three hours past, she slows the music down, letting the ponies catch their breath as she motions to the the emcee. Nodding at her, he envelops the mic with his magic and brings it up to his muzzle. “Let’s give it up for the amazing DJ-PON3!!!! We’re going to take a short break while we switch up DJs. Those who have VIP access head on toward that big, burly earth pony and you all will be able to meet with her for a bit before she goes to sign autographs. Up next is our DJ in waiting, Bass Note!” Trotting back to the VIP room, she snags a bottle of cold water, drinking half of it in one go. Letting out a sigh of relief from her parched predicament, she heads over to a seat and waits for the few people who purchased the VIP package to come meet her. As the sound of approaching hooves grows louder, she smiles at nothing in particular, waiting for the door to open. With a stout knock, the door opens quietly as five ponies are ushered in, most with stars in their eyes at meeting a modern musical legend. Getting to her hooves, she saunters over and extends a hoof to the assembled ponies. “Well, I guess you all know who I am. So, what do you want to know?” All at once a small cacophony erupts as the five VIPs clamor for her attention. “Hold on everypony, let’s do this one at a time and let me lay out a few things. You are here to basically hang out with me before I’m mobbed by the rest of the club. So, let’s all relax and take a breath. I’m not going anywhere and for the next 30 minutes, neither are you. There’s time to get to know you all and enjoy ourselves.” As the VIPs work their way over to their seats, Vinyl levitates some bottles of water for anypony that might be thirsty. Snagging another for herself, she sits on her chair and looks to the group. Looking to her left, she points to the first pony and asks “So, what do you want to know?” With the discussion well underway, Vinyl sits back and tries to enjoy those few moments of relaxation before she has to head out and meet the rest of the club.
Chapter 6 - Starting OverSomething has gone wrong. We don't seem to have an archived copy of that chapter.
Chapter 7 - The Bottom Drops OutSomething has gone wrong. We don't seem to have an archived copy of that chapter.
Chapter 8 - All's WellSomething has gone wrong. We don't seem to have an archived copy of that chapter.
