Octavia Takes a Walkby HerpyDerpy55ChaptersRestaurantStreetsMeadows and Shadows Wine, Forts, and PillowsRestaurantTwo mares sat outside a restaurant, one with her head propped up with her arm, the other sipping away at her drink. “Vinyl... I always wondered...” said Octavia “Uhh, is something wrong?” questioned Vinyl. “Oh no, nothing’s wrong. It’s just that I keep thinking about what role we play in this world.” Octavia said sighing. Vinyl stopped sipping from her straw and looked at the mare across her. “Haha! You’re worried about that? Our role in this world of ours is toe play music to entertain other ponies! Like I play sick beats every now and then near the clubs and stuff-” She then motioned towards her cutie mark then returned to facing Octavia. “-and you play your Violin-“ “Cello.” “-eh tomato, potato. Anyway, you use your cello to play classical music to some ponies here and some for the snobs back in Canterlot.” She laughed. Vinyl had some experience playing electronic music for the Canterlot Elite. It's just that most of them never really understood what 'dropping the base' meant or what 'dubstep' is. “Vinyl! May I remind you that some of the ponies there actually like classical music, and also, the Canterlot nobility are not, as you say 'snobs'.” She said whilst air-quoting “Some of them actually have some class but are also not as pompous as the rest. ” Octavia said frustrated at her friend’s comments. “Meh, fine.” She said closing her eyes while drinking her smoothie. “Wait, that’s it?” She said with one eyebrow raising. “That’s what?” “After what I said, you’re not going to say anything more?” “Ehh, why should I? You’ve made your point. Also I’m really enjoying this smoothie.” She said whilst taking another sip from her straw. Octavia sighed.“Why do I even put up with you.” She groaned “Sometimes I think that all you really care about is food.” “Because we’re best friends 'Tavi!” Vinyl replied, laughing. “Also, I don't always think about food, I think about what song I should remix next. Or what I'm gonna do to pass the time." She answered. "Also, what made you think about that anyway?” She asked whilst drinking her smoothie. “Oh, it’s just that last week Twilight and her friends go off to some random adventure off to another part of Equestria partaking on some sort of ceremony or whatnot. I just think that I need a bit of adventure in my life you know?” She said poking at her salad. Vinyl set her empty glass down and stared at Octavia. ”Wow. You’re bored aren’t you?” “More than you can imagine Vinyl.” Vinyl stroked her chin in though. ”Hmm, well what do you want to do today?” “I don’t know, probably nothing.” Vinyl blinked. “Ehh nothing?” “That’s what I said didn’t I?” Vinyl frowned “So you’re bored yet you don’t want to do anything.” “Yes Vinyl.” “Why?” Octavia sighed “Look Vinyl as much as I know that you want to cheer me up, I’m a bit-“ She watched as Vinyl went back inside the store, bits at hoof. She then looked at her now opened purse. “- Where are you going? And what are you doing with my money!” shouted Octavia “I’m gonna buy myself another smoothie! Also thanks for the bits Octy!” Vinyl said walking inside the restaurant. “I’ll never understand that mare sometimes.” She muttered, rolling her eyes. She picked up a fork and picked up a bit of her salad. “Should’ve ordered a sandwich instead.” She thought She chewed her salad as she obserered her surroundings, looking around she saw Big Mac in the distance hauling a cart full of apples. The crusaders walking around and chatting to themselves. Which reminded her of the times she nearly had a near-collision with the three due to their crusading. “Thank Celestia they finally got those marks.” She thought with a bit of anger clouding her mind. Octavia was not a mare of anger, but at some times the crusaders made her blood boil. Such as the time when they managed to collide with her as she was holding her cello. Poor mare stood no chance to three speeding fillies, as one rode a scooter and the other two on a wagon. It didn't help that the collision managed to make the poor mare drop her case. And that was the day that she decided to buy a better case for her cello, poor thing broke it’s neck on the incident, fixing it was expensive too. Suddenly she saw Spike walking towards the restaurant. The young drake was well known for being Princess Twilight's assistant. Usually he was never out of the newly-formed crystal castle due to the fact that the princess earned more new duties and she needed him more than ever. So seeing him out here this late in the afternoon was a bit uncommon. “Mornin’ Octavia.” Said Spike. “Same to you.” The drake stopped in his tracks. “What’s made you so glum?” “Excuse me?” She replied. “Well usually you either smile or just have this serious expression every time I see you.” He replied back. It's true. Usually Octavia has this serious expression worn on her face whenever she goes anywhere, giving herself an air of professionalism in her art. Seeing her bored and glum was a bit weird to the young drake. Octavia sighed. “Well I suppose I am a bit bored as of now.” “You mind if I sit here?” “Oh no, go ahead.” Spike sat down and made himself comfortable.”You ever tried taking a walk? That’s what I do when I’m bored.” He said picking up the menu. “You walk?” “Yeah, sometimes I walk through Sweet Apple Acres and watch them buck the apple trees. You gotta love the smell of fresh apples in the mornin’. Also the smell of soil on the early mornin’ kinda calms my nerves.” He said frowning as he didn't find what he was looking for. "I guess I can only get sapphire cupcakes at Sugarcube Corner..." Vinyl walked out of the restaurant whilst drinking her smoothie. ”Yo, Octy I’m back, here’s your bits.” She said as she dropped the bits on the table. “You didn’t use them?” Octavia asked with an eyebrow raised. “What? You thought I was gonna use ‘em? Aww, come on Octy you know I’m not that kind of mare.” She said while sipping her smoothie once more Octavia sent a glare towards Vinyl.“Hmm. You better not be.” Vinyl’s eyes lit up as she saw who their new visitor. “Ohh Spike wassup man!” She said as she motioned her hoof. “Nothin’ much Vi, just the usual assisting for the princess.” He said bro-hoofing his friend. “You two know each-other?” Octavia asked. For as long as she could remember, Vinyl never mentioned Spike in any of their talks. “Oh yeah man, that was uhh," Vinyl scratched her head in thought. "when was that Spike?” “That was when you needed help with your system getting loaded off of the train from Canterlot remember?” He replied. “Oh yeah! Me and Spike met at the train station a day after the wedding, he helped me drag my stuff all over Ponyville to get back to home. We got acquainted while walking from the train station to home. He’s a pretty swell guy once you meet him.” “But how is it that you two seem like such close friends?” Octavia asked once more. “Oh we meet at night every now and then every time I’m done with a gig. He helps me with the equipment and I provide company.” “Twilight likes her late night coffee, but occasionally we run out of sugar or coffee beans so she sends me out to get some.” Spike said. “Oh I see.” Octavia answered. A moment of silence passed between the three of them, only the sound of Vinyl’s sipping interrupting the silence. “So Spike. Ya know of any good things we can do today? Octy’s kinda bummed out at the moment.” Vinyl asked Spike. “I don’t know, maybe Bowling?” “Nah, it’s a weekend, probably too crowded.” “How ‘bout swimming on the lake?” “Ehh, too wet.” “Making a pizza?” “Last time we used an oven I nearly set a part of the house on fire, so... no.” “Huh, this is gonna be a toughy. Uhh how ‘bout we walk?” Spike shrugged. Vinyl stroked her chin in thought then looked at her smoothie.”You know what? Yeah lets go for a walk, gotta burn off these carbs. Hey Octy you comin’?” She asked Octavia. Octavia sighed. ”Might as well. Better than doing nothing I guess.” Author's Note First story I've made, constructive criticism would be appreciated. StreetsMinutes after they left the restaurant, Vinyl decided to play a little game of I-Spy. Octavia was lagging behind the duo as Vinyl and Spike continued playing their little game. “I spy with my little eye, somepony, red.” Vinyl said looking at a certain stallion hauling a cart at the distance. “It’s Big Mac.” Spike replied rolling his eyes. “How’d ya know?” “The only pony in town who’s got a red coat is Mac. Here's a challenge. Name me anypony else that has a red coat and I’ll give you a bit.” “Ooh ooh, There’s uhh…” Vinyl rubbed her chin in thought. “There’s nopony else in Ponyville that has a red coat other than Big Mac.” Octavia replied, boredom clearly evident on her voice. “You’re still bored aren’t you?” Spike observed. “Oh believe me this is actually making me feel a bit better, despite the fact that Vinyl is doing horribly at I-Spy.” She said rolling her eyes. “Hey, It’s not my fault there’s nothing good to I-spy around here.” Vinyl replied frowning. “Alright then let me try.” Octavia said confidently. She looked around observing her surroundings. “Let’s see here. I Spy with my little eye, something,” Octavia looked around trying to find something interesting to choose. ”something green.” “Oooh this is gonna be interesting.” Vinyl said intrigued. “Is it, my spines?” Spike asked with a grin. “As much as I know that you like being the center of attention. No.” Octavia giggled. “Is it that flower patch?” Vinyl queried. “No.” “Is it that watermelon?” Spike questioned. “Not that either.” “That butterfly?” Vinyl inquired. “Nope.” “How about that tree with a kite in it?” “Still no!” Octavia said sing-song “Well what in the hay is it?!” Vinyl asked frustrated at her friend. “Well, look at Sugarcube Corner .” Octavia motioned towards the store. “Yeah and?” Vinyl said clearly irritated. “Look at one of the windows.” Vinyl looked towards the store and carefully observed what Octavia was motioning towards, until she finally found it. “Ooohh. Its Gummy!” Vinyl shouted with joy. “Yes, it’s Gummy.” Octavia said smiling at Vinyl’s endeavours. “Although I never knew one could be so competitive in a game of I-Spy.” Octavia said poking Vinyl “Meh you tend to be a bit playfully competitive once you’re with friends.” “True that.” Spike said as they walked near the Carousel Boutique. What he didn’t realize was how long he took staring at the boutique that he also didn’t realize his two friends taking notice. “Sooo, Spike.” Vinyl questioned with a grin. “Oh Rari- Oh what was that?” Spike asked with a bit of confusion. “Oh nothing,” Vinyl snickered. “ I’ve been wanting to as you, how’re you and Rarity comin’ along eh?” She asked while nudging the drake knowing full well about his infatuation with the alabaster mare “OH! Uhh, nothing much. I still visit her every time I’m free, so like almost every other day I think? So I guess everything’s good between us, Why?” Spike said and questioned. “Really, nothing else like-“ Vinyl pantomimed hugging another pony whilst kissing the air Octavia bopped the mare in the head.”Alright Vinyl enough with harassing the poor dear.” She said motioning to the now red-faced Spike. “But in all seriousness now, how are Rarity and you, romantic-wise?” Octavia hummed. “Oh, we’re just friends.” Spike said with a bit of sadness evident in his voice. “I think she seems to like the more,” He rubbed his head in thought. “ponies in high-places though. Like the ones in Canterlot? Or ones that can get her quick on the fashion business. Though I would like to get a chance to show that I’m a bit more than an assistant.” Vinyl place a hoof on his shoulder. “Don’t worry dude, you’ll get her someday.” “Thanks Vinyl. But enough about me, how are you and Freon Sights going along?” He asked. She responded with a snort, then a snicker, which then turned to full-blow laughter, rolling on the street . ”Haha! Dude, what made you think that Neon and I were an item?” She questioned getting up on all her hooves and wiping a single tear from her eyes. “Well you guys kinda look like a thing so I thought-“ “Dude, just to clarify, his name is Neon Lights. Also me and him are like collab buddies. Every once in a while, when we feel like it we meet up at either his or my place to create some music.” Vinyl clarified. “Oh really now? What type of 'music'?” He said grinning. “Oh you know some remixes here, originals there, and a bit off-“ She stopped as she saw the ever-growing grin on his face. “Oh get your mind out of the gutter!” She said punching him in the shoulder. “But yeah Neon and I are just friends.” As cool as he was, she thought nothing of him more than just being a friend. "Though he does act a bit odd around me sometimes... Hmm, might ask him 'bout that soon." Vinyl thought “Or so you say.” “Ehh, what about you Octy? Got anyone ya got your eye on?” Vinyl asked nudging her friend. “Umm no not really, due to the fact that I’m not interested in having any sort of relationship with anypony at the moment.” Octavia answered rubbing her hooves together. "And also the fact that I'm not a very socialistic type of pony." “Oh come on, there’s gotta be atleast somepony that caught your eye on.” Vinyl whined. “Hmm, yes well I am a bit attracted to Big Mac…” She answered meekly Vinyl groaned. “He doesn’t count, almost all the mares on town want some of that Apple.” “Well I guess you can say He’s the… apple of their eyes!” Spike laughed out. Much to the amusement of the two mares. The trio walked silently through the town slowly taking in the sights and enjoying eachother’s company. “Well, this is calming.” Octavia thought.”Perhaps I should do this more often.” She looked ahead and saw Vinyl and Spike sharing idle chit-chat with each other, giving out a laugh every once and a while. She looked around and began to see that they were walking into the more crowded part of town. “Hmm, Vinyl? Spike?” She called out to them. “Yo wassup?” Vinyl answered. “Would you guys mind if I walked alone for a bit? I’m gonna try walking alone. See you at the home?” “Oh okay, me and Spike were planning on going to Sugarcube Corner to grab some sweets anyway. See ya at home!” Vinyl shouted over her shoulder. “See ya later Octavia!” Spike said waving away at Octavia. “See you guys later!” Octavia said waving at the duo. “Now, where should I go next.” Octavia asked to herself while walking towards another part of town. Meadows and Shadows Meadows and Shadows As the afternoon turned to twilight, Octavia walked through the streets at a slow pace, all the while taking in all the sights to see. She had now walked for a few hours now and the sun had begun to set over the horizon. She saw Daisy and Roseluck packing up shop for the end of the day, they waved at her once she came into their view. She waved back at them and proceeded to move on her way. As walked further out of the market she overheard Applejack speaking to Thunderlane, complaining about the lack of rain over their farm, with few of their crops slowly withering away due to lack of water. A few moments later, she saw Derpy rushing off to somewhere with a package between her teeth. As she looked towards the sky, she began to realize how much time she had actually spent walking around. The baby blue sky was now replaced by a gradient of orange and violet hues, slowly enveloping the land in darkness in preparation for the night. As she walked further, she began to feel the cold wind of the night slowly embracing her, calming her nerves as she walked through the now silent town. With everypony now inside in their homes all comfortable and warm, some counting their earnings for the day, and some enjoying the company of their beloved, they all shared the same feeling of being at home; bliss. She observed as the darkness slowly enveloped the town and soon, she saw the simultaneous action of ponies lighting up some lanterns, and some turning on their lights, bathing the streets in a bright, yellow glow. The town, dark and mysterious, brightened up as the first stars of night came into view. Stars, which sprinkled over the night sky, provided a beautiful sight as the cold wind blew over her body. She walked further and proceeded to go near a lake by the edge of the town. A small hill, with a small tree perched on top of it, its branches reaching up to the sky, as if wishing to grow higher, overlooked over the lake. The lake, its light-blue surface was now replaced by a dark blue surface, covered by a plethora of white dots, reflecting the sky above it. Octavia sat down on top of the hill, her back leaning against the cold, rough surface of the tree for support. She began to take in the breath-taking sight in front of her, and began to relax. Her face now adorned a warm smile, mixing in with the cold wind which only served to ease her up further. She closed her eyes and began to think. “Twilight and her gang probably look forward to this every time they go and venture off to someplace different.” She thought. “ To return back home and to feel the company of their loved ones, their friends and family. A place of familiarity. A place to finally keep your guard down and enjoy the good things in life.” She sighed. “I guess, compared to them, I’m more lucky to not have to go to someplace else, risking my life for Equestria.” She closed her eyes and just listened to her surroundings. Its still, and tranquil moments like these that make nature the creator of the most beautiful music in the world. Like nature’s own orchestraic piece, portrayed through it’s creatures big and small, inanimate and living. The ;rustling of the leaves; the chirping of the grasshoppers; the croaking of the frogs near the lake; the distant hoots of an owl near the forest; the sound of rushing water down the stream. She felt in harmony, the same feeling she felt as she played with her other band acquaintances, their instruments synchronizing beautifully, creating music pleasing to hear. A feeling of content washed over her as she opened her eyes to look across the lake, there she found few flowers blooming under the moonlight. On the right was a wide meadow scattered with flowers of different colors and sizes. A meadow beautiful enough to be picture-perfect if a trained artist were to paint it. She rose to all fours and proceeded to walk back to town. Walking towards the bridge crossing the path from Ponyville to the forest, she found ponies walking about with their colleagues, one wore a business suit which looked like they just came from the train from business off of somewhere near Manehattan the stallions tired and weary face brightened up as he saw his loving wife and children. There were a bunch of teenage colts and mares heading towards the nearest nightclub to blow off their bits with alcohol, no doubt blissfully unaware of the repercussions that the next morning will give, and she also saw a couple walking towards the restaurant She and Vinyl were at earlier that day. Yet she trudged on with one goal set in mind. “Get back home, eat some dinner and probably enjoy a bit of wine while I’m at it.” She thought, grinning. She thought of the smell and taste of decanted wine which only helped her in making her travel much faster. Wine, Forts, and Pillows“Agent Brimstone this is Pearl, Message acknowledged and you are now clear to return to cover, over.” Vinyl said into her radio as she acknowledged her partner’s message. “Acknowledged, over.” Said the agent from the other side of the comm. Vinyl sat on the edge of her bed, her laptop illuminating the room with a bright blue glow. She squinted her eyes as she turned on the lights, filling the room with light. As she looked around her room, she began to realize just how long she’s been watching Brimstone’s every move, taking note of his actions and listing the things needing cleanup. The only sound filling the room was the sound of clacking keys on her keyboard. Suddenly she heard the front door open. She opened a software which connected to a link of tiny cameras spread all over the house, which acted as her first line of defense against intruders. Her second was a system of carefully placed sentry guns which popped out of their places at the push of a button. Viewing through the camera, she saw Octavia walking through the room with much grace and sophistication, heading towards the chiller where she pulled out a bottle of Cantervino. She took a wine glass and set it down on the table. “Vinyl! Did you happen to see my aerator?” Octavia asked. “Aero- what?” Vinyl replied, confused at the foreign word. “Nevermind!” ‘Looks like aerating it instantly is out of the picture, might as well drink it directly..’ She thought as she popped off the cork. Vinyl walked down the stairs and stared at the gray mare. ”So uhh, what’s the occasion ‘Tavi?” She asked while staring at the mare as she poured the red liquid down to the two wine glasses. “Oh, nothing really. I just thought that this might be a good time to have a glass of wine. Wouldn’t you think?” “Alright! Go alcohol!” Vinyl replied as she swiftly took the glass and immediately drank its contents. She immediately drew back and cringed at the foreign taste. “Yo ‘Tavi, is it supposed to taste like wet bread?” “Yes, Vinyl. That’s because of the yeast used to age the wine.” "Ehh, I think I'll pass." Vinyl said sheepishly as she moved her glass towards the gray mare. “Hmm, suit yourself.” Octavia said whilst shaking the glass in a clockwise motion, swirling the contents of the glass, making a tiny whirlpool inside the glass chamber. “So ‘Tavi, how was your walk?” “Oh nothing much, though it was relieving to just walk around and take in the sights around town.” Octavia said as she took a sip from her glass. A moment of silence passed between the two mares. “Soo… Whaddya wanna do now?” “To be honest, I really just want to relax and drink some of this wine.” She said as she finished her glass. “Cool.” Vinyl looked towards the couch where two pillows laid side-by-side you wanna make a pillow fort?” Vinyl asked with a glint on her eyes. “Hmm… You know what? Its been so long since I made myself a pillow fort, that I might as well agree to that. Lets do it.” “Sweeet!” Vinyl said hoof-bumping the air in front of her. “Hand me that pillow will you Vinyl?” “Are you sure? We did already manage to scavenge every pillow in the house as of now.” Vinyl said looking at the pillow-castle. It stood tall enough to reach the ceiling of their room. On the other side of the room, where their beds were placed, now desolate of any pillow or cover, its beddings now hanging in front of the fort acting as banners, one a deep velvet, the other, a plain white, with a few stains of ketchup and cola. “Also where’d you learn how to build awesome forts!” “I studied a small bit of architecture during college. Also my brother and I, used to get in so much trouble with my parents every time they saw us take all the pillows to create a pillow fort in my living room.” Octavia said laughing. "Though he does take more of the blame than me, due to the fact that I was very young at the time." She said as she put the last remaining pillow on top of the castle, completing the fort. Octavia jumped down towards Vinyl and motioned towards her build. “So, What do you think?” “I’m thinking more about how we have that many pillows at home. Where’d we even get ‘em all?” Vinyl said scratching the back of her head. “I believe I got from Quill’s and Sofas, when one of their deliveries messed up and sent pillows instead of sofas. They sold them at a good deal too, so I couldn’t pass it up.” Octavia said shrugging. "But, I do believe that I managed to get, oh I think that was... five boxes?" She then looked at the castle made up of a mixture of wool, cotton, and feather pillows. Surrounding it was a moat made of blankets and any type of flat cloth that they could find. “Though I do think that I went a little overboard about the pillows though…” “You wanna go inside?” Vinyl asked heading towards the entrance of the fort. As she went inside, she was greeted by the sight of a small space big enough to fit two ponies, but providing enough space for them to move freely while sleeping. “Hmm, how ‘bout we put some sleeping bags in here? Considerin’ that its almost midnight, I say we sleep here!” Vinyl said grinning at Octavia. “I agree Vinyl, I do believe that this would be a good time to slumber,” Octavia yawned out. “though you’re going to be the one cooking us breakfast for tomorrow.” Octavia said smiling at her friend. Vinyl groaned. “Fiiine, just don’t come whining to me about how the food tastes like charcoal though.” Vinyl said as she flopped down to her sleeping bag. Octavia went inside her sleeping bag and said. “Just cook us some eggs, simple, and very easy to make.” Octavia sighed.”But I’m sure you’ll always find a way to ruin even the simplest of things.” She rolled her eyes. “Yeah, yeah, sure. Night Octy!” “Goodnight Vinyl.” Octavia said as she turned of the lantern illuminating the insides of the fort.
RestaurantTwo mares sat outside a restaurant, one with her head propped up with her arm, the other sipping away at her drink. “Vinyl... I always wondered...” said Octavia “Uhh, is something wrong?” questioned Vinyl. “Oh no, nothing’s wrong. It’s just that I keep thinking about what role we play in this world.” Octavia said sighing. Vinyl stopped sipping from her straw and looked at the mare across her. “Haha! You’re worried about that? Our role in this world of ours is toe play music to entertain other ponies! Like I play sick beats every now and then near the clubs and stuff-” She then motioned towards her cutie mark then returned to facing Octavia. “-and you play your Violin-“ “Cello.” “-eh tomato, potato. Anyway, you use your cello to play classical music to some ponies here and some for the snobs back in Canterlot.” She laughed. Vinyl had some experience playing electronic music for the Canterlot Elite. It's just that most of them never really understood what 'dropping the base' meant or what 'dubstep' is. “Vinyl! May I remind you that some of the ponies there actually like classical music, and also, the Canterlot nobility are not, as you say 'snobs'.” She said whilst air-quoting “Some of them actually have some class but are also not as pompous as the rest. ” Octavia said frustrated at her friend’s comments. “Meh, fine.” She said closing her eyes while drinking her smoothie. “Wait, that’s it?” She said with one eyebrow raising. “That’s what?” “After what I said, you’re not going to say anything more?” “Ehh, why should I? You’ve made your point. Also I’m really enjoying this smoothie.” She said whilst taking another sip from her straw. Octavia sighed.“Why do I even put up with you.” She groaned “Sometimes I think that all you really care about is food.” “Because we’re best friends 'Tavi!” Vinyl replied, laughing. “Also, I don't always think about food, I think about what song I should remix next. Or what I'm gonna do to pass the time." She answered. "Also, what made you think about that anyway?” She asked whilst drinking her smoothie. “Oh, it’s just that last week Twilight and her friends go off to some random adventure off to another part of Equestria partaking on some sort of ceremony or whatnot. I just think that I need a bit of adventure in my life you know?” She said poking at her salad. Vinyl set her empty glass down and stared at Octavia. ”Wow. You’re bored aren’t you?” “More than you can imagine Vinyl.” Vinyl stroked her chin in though. ”Hmm, well what do you want to do today?” “I don’t know, probably nothing.” Vinyl blinked. “Ehh nothing?” “That’s what I said didn’t I?” Vinyl frowned “So you’re bored yet you don’t want to do anything.” “Yes Vinyl.” “Why?” Octavia sighed “Look Vinyl as much as I know that you want to cheer me up, I’m a bit-“ She watched as Vinyl went back inside the store, bits at hoof. She then looked at her now opened purse. “- Where are you going? And what are you doing with my money!” shouted Octavia “I’m gonna buy myself another smoothie! Also thanks for the bits Octy!” Vinyl said walking inside the restaurant. “I’ll never understand that mare sometimes.” She muttered, rolling her eyes. She picked up a fork and picked up a bit of her salad. “Should’ve ordered a sandwich instead.” She thought She chewed her salad as she obserered her surroundings, looking around she saw Big Mac in the distance hauling a cart full of apples. The crusaders walking around and chatting to themselves. Which reminded her of the times she nearly had a near-collision with the three due to their crusading. “Thank Celestia they finally got those marks.” She thought with a bit of anger clouding her mind. Octavia was not a mare of anger, but at some times the crusaders made her blood boil. Such as the time when they managed to collide with her as she was holding her cello. Poor mare stood no chance to three speeding fillies, as one rode a scooter and the other two on a wagon. It didn't help that the collision managed to make the poor mare drop her case. And that was the day that she decided to buy a better case for her cello, poor thing broke it’s neck on the incident, fixing it was expensive too. Suddenly she saw Spike walking towards the restaurant. The young drake was well known for being Princess Twilight's assistant. Usually he was never out of the newly-formed crystal castle due to the fact that the princess earned more new duties and she needed him more than ever. So seeing him out here this late in the afternoon was a bit uncommon. “Mornin’ Octavia.” Said Spike. “Same to you.” The drake stopped in his tracks. “What’s made you so glum?” “Excuse me?” She replied. “Well usually you either smile or just have this serious expression every time I see you.” He replied back. It's true. Usually Octavia has this serious expression worn on her face whenever she goes anywhere, giving herself an air of professionalism in her art. Seeing her bored and glum was a bit weird to the young drake. Octavia sighed. “Well I suppose I am a bit bored as of now.” “You mind if I sit here?” “Oh no, go ahead.” Spike sat down and made himself comfortable.”You ever tried taking a walk? That’s what I do when I’m bored.” He said picking up the menu. “You walk?” “Yeah, sometimes I walk through Sweet Apple Acres and watch them buck the apple trees. You gotta love the smell of fresh apples in the mornin’. Also the smell of soil on the early mornin’ kinda calms my nerves.” He said frowning as he didn't find what he was looking for. "I guess I can only get sapphire cupcakes at Sugarcube Corner..." Vinyl walked out of the restaurant whilst drinking her smoothie. ”Yo, Octy I’m back, here’s your bits.” She said as she dropped the bits on the table. “You didn’t use them?” Octavia asked with an eyebrow raised. “What? You thought I was gonna use ‘em? Aww, come on Octy you know I’m not that kind of mare.” She said while sipping her smoothie once more Octavia sent a glare towards Vinyl.“Hmm. You better not be.” Vinyl’s eyes lit up as she saw who their new visitor. “Ohh Spike wassup man!” She said as she motioned her hoof. “Nothin’ much Vi, just the usual assisting for the princess.” He said bro-hoofing his friend. “You two know each-other?” Octavia asked. For as long as she could remember, Vinyl never mentioned Spike in any of their talks. “Oh yeah man, that was uhh," Vinyl scratched her head in thought. "when was that Spike?” “That was when you needed help with your system getting loaded off of the train from Canterlot remember?” He replied. “Oh yeah! Me and Spike met at the train station a day after the wedding, he helped me drag my stuff all over Ponyville to get back to home. We got acquainted while walking from the train station to home. He’s a pretty swell guy once you meet him.” “But how is it that you two seem like such close friends?” Octavia asked once more. “Oh we meet at night every now and then every time I’m done with a gig. He helps me with the equipment and I provide company.” “Twilight likes her late night coffee, but occasionally we run out of sugar or coffee beans so she sends me out to get some.” Spike said. “Oh I see.” Octavia answered. A moment of silence passed between the three of them, only the sound of Vinyl’s sipping interrupting the silence. “So Spike. Ya know of any good things we can do today? Octy’s kinda bummed out at the moment.” Vinyl asked Spike. “I don’t know, maybe Bowling?” “Nah, it’s a weekend, probably too crowded.” “How ‘bout swimming on the lake?” “Ehh, too wet.” “Making a pizza?” “Last time we used an oven I nearly set a part of the house on fire, so... no.” “Huh, this is gonna be a toughy. Uhh how ‘bout we walk?” Spike shrugged. Vinyl stroked her chin in thought then looked at her smoothie.”You know what? Yeah lets go for a walk, gotta burn off these carbs. Hey Octy you comin’?” She asked Octavia. Octavia sighed. ”Might as well. Better than doing nothing I guess.” Author's Note First story I've made, constructive criticism would be appreciated.
StreetsMinutes after they left the restaurant, Vinyl decided to play a little game of I-Spy. Octavia was lagging behind the duo as Vinyl and Spike continued playing their little game. “I spy with my little eye, somepony, red.” Vinyl said looking at a certain stallion hauling a cart at the distance. “It’s Big Mac.” Spike replied rolling his eyes. “How’d ya know?” “The only pony in town who’s got a red coat is Mac. Here's a challenge. Name me anypony else that has a red coat and I’ll give you a bit.” “Ooh ooh, There’s uhh…” Vinyl rubbed her chin in thought. “There’s nopony else in Ponyville that has a red coat other than Big Mac.” Octavia replied, boredom clearly evident on her voice. “You’re still bored aren’t you?” Spike observed. “Oh believe me this is actually making me feel a bit better, despite the fact that Vinyl is doing horribly at I-Spy.” She said rolling her eyes. “Hey, It’s not my fault there’s nothing good to I-spy around here.” Vinyl replied frowning. “Alright then let me try.” Octavia said confidently. She looked around observing her surroundings. “Let’s see here. I Spy with my little eye, something,” Octavia looked around trying to find something interesting to choose. ”something green.” “Oooh this is gonna be interesting.” Vinyl said intrigued. “Is it, my spines?” Spike asked with a grin. “As much as I know that you like being the center of attention. No.” Octavia giggled. “Is it that flower patch?” Vinyl queried. “No.” “Is it that watermelon?” Spike questioned. “Not that either.” “That butterfly?” Vinyl inquired. “Nope.” “How about that tree with a kite in it?” “Still no!” Octavia said sing-song “Well what in the hay is it?!” Vinyl asked frustrated at her friend. “Well, look at Sugarcube Corner .” Octavia motioned towards the store. “Yeah and?” Vinyl said clearly irritated. “Look at one of the windows.” Vinyl looked towards the store and carefully observed what Octavia was motioning towards, until she finally found it. “Ooohh. Its Gummy!” Vinyl shouted with joy. “Yes, it’s Gummy.” Octavia said smiling at Vinyl’s endeavours. “Although I never knew one could be so competitive in a game of I-Spy.” Octavia said poking Vinyl “Meh you tend to be a bit playfully competitive once you’re with friends.” “True that.” Spike said as they walked near the Carousel Boutique. What he didn’t realize was how long he took staring at the boutique that he also didn’t realize his two friends taking notice. “Sooo, Spike.” Vinyl questioned with a grin. “Oh Rari- Oh what was that?” Spike asked with a bit of confusion. “Oh nothing,” Vinyl snickered. “ I’ve been wanting to as you, how’re you and Rarity comin’ along eh?” She asked while nudging the drake knowing full well about his infatuation with the alabaster mare “OH! Uhh, nothing much. I still visit her every time I’m free, so like almost every other day I think? So I guess everything’s good between us, Why?” Spike said and questioned. “Really, nothing else like-“ Vinyl pantomimed hugging another pony whilst kissing the air Octavia bopped the mare in the head.”Alright Vinyl enough with harassing the poor dear.” She said motioning to the now red-faced Spike. “But in all seriousness now, how are Rarity and you, romantic-wise?” Octavia hummed. “Oh, we’re just friends.” Spike said with a bit of sadness evident in his voice. “I think she seems to like the more,” He rubbed his head in thought. “ponies in high-places though. Like the ones in Canterlot? Or ones that can get her quick on the fashion business. Though I would like to get a chance to show that I’m a bit more than an assistant.” Vinyl place a hoof on his shoulder. “Don’t worry dude, you’ll get her someday.” “Thanks Vinyl. But enough about me, how are you and Freon Sights going along?” He asked. She responded with a snort, then a snicker, which then turned to full-blow laughter, rolling on the street . ”Haha! Dude, what made you think that Neon and I were an item?” She questioned getting up on all her hooves and wiping a single tear from her eyes. “Well you guys kinda look like a thing so I thought-“ “Dude, just to clarify, his name is Neon Lights. Also me and him are like collab buddies. Every once in a while, when we feel like it we meet up at either his or my place to create some music.” Vinyl clarified. “Oh really now? What type of 'music'?” He said grinning. “Oh you know some remixes here, originals there, and a bit off-“ She stopped as she saw the ever-growing grin on his face. “Oh get your mind out of the gutter!” She said punching him in the shoulder. “But yeah Neon and I are just friends.” As cool as he was, she thought nothing of him more than just being a friend. "Though he does act a bit odd around me sometimes... Hmm, might ask him 'bout that soon." Vinyl thought “Or so you say.” “Ehh, what about you Octy? Got anyone ya got your eye on?” Vinyl asked nudging her friend. “Umm no not really, due to the fact that I’m not interested in having any sort of relationship with anypony at the moment.” Octavia answered rubbing her hooves together. "And also the fact that I'm not a very socialistic type of pony." “Oh come on, there’s gotta be atleast somepony that caught your eye on.” Vinyl whined. “Hmm, yes well I am a bit attracted to Big Mac…” She answered meekly Vinyl groaned. “He doesn’t count, almost all the mares on town want some of that Apple.” “Well I guess you can say He’s the… apple of their eyes!” Spike laughed out. Much to the amusement of the two mares. The trio walked silently through the town slowly taking in the sights and enjoying eachother’s company. “Well, this is calming.” Octavia thought.”Perhaps I should do this more often.” She looked ahead and saw Vinyl and Spike sharing idle chit-chat with each other, giving out a laugh every once and a while. She looked around and began to see that they were walking into the more crowded part of town. “Hmm, Vinyl? Spike?” She called out to them. “Yo wassup?” Vinyl answered. “Would you guys mind if I walked alone for a bit? I’m gonna try walking alone. See you at the home?” “Oh okay, me and Spike were planning on going to Sugarcube Corner to grab some sweets anyway. See ya at home!” Vinyl shouted over her shoulder. “See ya later Octavia!” Spike said waving away at Octavia. “See you guys later!” Octavia said waving at the duo. “Now, where should I go next.” Octavia asked to herself while walking towards another part of town.
Meadows and Shadows Meadows and Shadows As the afternoon turned to twilight, Octavia walked through the streets at a slow pace, all the while taking in all the sights to see. She had now walked for a few hours now and the sun had begun to set over the horizon. She saw Daisy and Roseluck packing up shop for the end of the day, they waved at her once she came into their view. She waved back at them and proceeded to move on her way. As walked further out of the market she overheard Applejack speaking to Thunderlane, complaining about the lack of rain over their farm, with few of their crops slowly withering away due to lack of water. A few moments later, she saw Derpy rushing off to somewhere with a package between her teeth. As she looked towards the sky, she began to realize how much time she had actually spent walking around. The baby blue sky was now replaced by a gradient of orange and violet hues, slowly enveloping the land in darkness in preparation for the night. As she walked further, she began to feel the cold wind of the night slowly embracing her, calming her nerves as she walked through the now silent town. With everypony now inside in their homes all comfortable and warm, some counting their earnings for the day, and some enjoying the company of their beloved, they all shared the same feeling of being at home; bliss. She observed as the darkness slowly enveloped the town and soon, she saw the simultaneous action of ponies lighting up some lanterns, and some turning on their lights, bathing the streets in a bright, yellow glow. The town, dark and mysterious, brightened up as the first stars of night came into view. Stars, which sprinkled over the night sky, provided a beautiful sight as the cold wind blew over her body. She walked further and proceeded to go near a lake by the edge of the town. A small hill, with a small tree perched on top of it, its branches reaching up to the sky, as if wishing to grow higher, overlooked over the lake. The lake, its light-blue surface was now replaced by a dark blue surface, covered by a plethora of white dots, reflecting the sky above it. Octavia sat down on top of the hill, her back leaning against the cold, rough surface of the tree for support. She began to take in the breath-taking sight in front of her, and began to relax. Her face now adorned a warm smile, mixing in with the cold wind which only served to ease her up further. She closed her eyes and began to think. “Twilight and her gang probably look forward to this every time they go and venture off to someplace different.” She thought. “ To return back home and to feel the company of their loved ones, their friends and family. A place of familiarity. A place to finally keep your guard down and enjoy the good things in life.” She sighed. “I guess, compared to them, I’m more lucky to not have to go to someplace else, risking my life for Equestria.” She closed her eyes and just listened to her surroundings. Its still, and tranquil moments like these that make nature the creator of the most beautiful music in the world. Like nature’s own orchestraic piece, portrayed through it’s creatures big and small, inanimate and living. The ;rustling of the leaves; the chirping of the grasshoppers; the croaking of the frogs near the lake; the distant hoots of an owl near the forest; the sound of rushing water down the stream. She felt in harmony, the same feeling she felt as she played with her other band acquaintances, their instruments synchronizing beautifully, creating music pleasing to hear. A feeling of content washed over her as she opened her eyes to look across the lake, there she found few flowers blooming under the moonlight. On the right was a wide meadow scattered with flowers of different colors and sizes. A meadow beautiful enough to be picture-perfect if a trained artist were to paint it. She rose to all fours and proceeded to walk back to town. Walking towards the bridge crossing the path from Ponyville to the forest, she found ponies walking about with their colleagues, one wore a business suit which looked like they just came from the train from business off of somewhere near Manehattan the stallions tired and weary face brightened up as he saw his loving wife and children. There were a bunch of teenage colts and mares heading towards the nearest nightclub to blow off their bits with alcohol, no doubt blissfully unaware of the repercussions that the next morning will give, and she also saw a couple walking towards the restaurant She and Vinyl were at earlier that day. Yet she trudged on with one goal set in mind. “Get back home, eat some dinner and probably enjoy a bit of wine while I’m at it.” She thought, grinning. She thought of the smell and taste of decanted wine which only helped her in making her travel much faster.
Wine, Forts, and Pillows“Agent Brimstone this is Pearl, Message acknowledged and you are now clear to return to cover, over.” Vinyl said into her radio as she acknowledged her partner’s message. “Acknowledged, over.” Said the agent from the other side of the comm. Vinyl sat on the edge of her bed, her laptop illuminating the room with a bright blue glow. She squinted her eyes as she turned on the lights, filling the room with light. As she looked around her room, she began to realize just how long she’s been watching Brimstone’s every move, taking note of his actions and listing the things needing cleanup. The only sound filling the room was the sound of clacking keys on her keyboard. Suddenly she heard the front door open. She opened a software which connected to a link of tiny cameras spread all over the house, which acted as her first line of defense against intruders. Her second was a system of carefully placed sentry guns which popped out of their places at the push of a button. Viewing through the camera, she saw Octavia walking through the room with much grace and sophistication, heading towards the chiller where she pulled out a bottle of Cantervino. She took a wine glass and set it down on the table. “Vinyl! Did you happen to see my aerator?” Octavia asked. “Aero- what?” Vinyl replied, confused at the foreign word. “Nevermind!” ‘Looks like aerating it instantly is out of the picture, might as well drink it directly..’ She thought as she popped off the cork. Vinyl walked down the stairs and stared at the gray mare. ”So uhh, what’s the occasion ‘Tavi?” She asked while staring at the mare as she poured the red liquid down to the two wine glasses. “Oh, nothing really. I just thought that this might be a good time to have a glass of wine. Wouldn’t you think?” “Alright! Go alcohol!” Vinyl replied as she swiftly took the glass and immediately drank its contents. She immediately drew back and cringed at the foreign taste. “Yo ‘Tavi, is it supposed to taste like wet bread?” “Yes, Vinyl. That’s because of the yeast used to age the wine.” "Ehh, I think I'll pass." Vinyl said sheepishly as she moved her glass towards the gray mare. “Hmm, suit yourself.” Octavia said whilst shaking the glass in a clockwise motion, swirling the contents of the glass, making a tiny whirlpool inside the glass chamber. “So ‘Tavi, how was your walk?” “Oh nothing much, though it was relieving to just walk around and take in the sights around town.” Octavia said as she took a sip from her glass. A moment of silence passed between the two mares. “Soo… Whaddya wanna do now?” “To be honest, I really just want to relax and drink some of this wine.” She said as she finished her glass. “Cool.” Vinyl looked towards the couch where two pillows laid side-by-side you wanna make a pillow fort?” Vinyl asked with a glint on her eyes. “Hmm… You know what? Its been so long since I made myself a pillow fort, that I might as well agree to that. Lets do it.” “Sweeet!” Vinyl said hoof-bumping the air in front of her. “Hand me that pillow will you Vinyl?” “Are you sure? We did already manage to scavenge every pillow in the house as of now.” Vinyl said looking at the pillow-castle. It stood tall enough to reach the ceiling of their room. On the other side of the room, where their beds were placed, now desolate of any pillow or cover, its beddings now hanging in front of the fort acting as banners, one a deep velvet, the other, a plain white, with a few stains of ketchup and cola. “Also where’d you learn how to build awesome forts!” “I studied a small bit of architecture during college. Also my brother and I, used to get in so much trouble with my parents every time they saw us take all the pillows to create a pillow fort in my living room.” Octavia said laughing. "Though he does take more of the blame than me, due to the fact that I was very young at the time." She said as she put the last remaining pillow on top of the castle, completing the fort. Octavia jumped down towards Vinyl and motioned towards her build. “So, What do you think?” “I’m thinking more about how we have that many pillows at home. Where’d we even get ‘em all?” Vinyl said scratching the back of her head. “I believe I got from Quill’s and Sofas, when one of their deliveries messed up and sent pillows instead of sofas. They sold them at a good deal too, so I couldn’t pass it up.” Octavia said shrugging. "But, I do believe that I managed to get, oh I think that was... five boxes?" She then looked at the castle made up of a mixture of wool, cotton, and feather pillows. Surrounding it was a moat made of blankets and any type of flat cloth that they could find. “Though I do think that I went a little overboard about the pillows though…” “You wanna go inside?” Vinyl asked heading towards the entrance of the fort. As she went inside, she was greeted by the sight of a small space big enough to fit two ponies, but providing enough space for them to move freely while sleeping. “Hmm, how ‘bout we put some sleeping bags in here? Considerin’ that its almost midnight, I say we sleep here!” Vinyl said grinning at Octavia. “I agree Vinyl, I do believe that this would be a good time to slumber,” Octavia yawned out. “though you’re going to be the one cooking us breakfast for tomorrow.” Octavia said smiling at her friend. Vinyl groaned. “Fiiine, just don’t come whining to me about how the food tastes like charcoal though.” Vinyl said as she flopped down to her sleeping bag. Octavia went inside her sleeping bag and said. “Just cook us some eggs, simple, and very easy to make.” Octavia sighed.”But I’m sure you’ll always find a way to ruin even the simplest of things.” She rolled her eyes. “Yeah, yeah, sure. Night Octy!” “Goodnight Vinyl.” Octavia said as she turned of the lantern illuminating the insides of the fort.
