Rara's Reality

Chapters

Rara's Return
Applejack's request
Coco's Trust
Twilight's plan
A marriage made in...
Rick and Rara
I Got A Fever...
Video Blog #1
A Complex World
Ending the Year on a Good Note
The Artist Known As...

Rara's Return

In the busy city of Manehattan, ponies stay as busy as ever, hoping to achieve their dreams that they were destined to do. One of them was Rara, or as others would know her as Countess Coloratura. Ever since the Svengallop Scandal came to light, thanks to her friend, Applejack, and with the help of a friend of hers, Princess Twilight Sparkle, Svengallop lost all of his clients in the process. And while she was able to perform at the Helping Hooves Music Festival, she was left without a manager to keep her career going.

But luck would have it that another famous singer, Sapphire Shores, would be willing to act as her new manager. This was due to the fact that her music career had to be put on hold due to her voice showing some “wear and tear”. But since she heard about the aftermath of the scandal, she decided to act as a manager to Svengallop’s former clients, knowing that she has experience in the field, and the fact that Svengallop came close to destroying the music industry with his own greed.

Rara now lives in a small apartment complex with another pony that Applejack knew from her past visits. As she looks out from her balcony on the third floor, wearing only a white tank top and black shorts and holding a cup of tea in her hands, she sees the park across the street as it has been reborn since the Midsummer Theatre Revival took place. She sees the stage in the park and thinks about getting her career going again. As she is thinking about this, she hears a knock at the door followed by a voice.

“Rara? It’s me, Coco.”

Rara ran straight to the door and unlocked it, opening it to reveal Coco Pommel, Rarity’s fashion assistant and friend. She was in a slight mess as she was wearing a simple white blouse and lavender skirt, which she wears to work. She was holding a folder of designs, a small notepad with a pen attached to it, and a measuring tape.

“Sorry I’m late. One of the workers at ‘Rarity for You’ was out sick today, so I was extra busy,” explained Coco.

“Oh that’s no problem, Coco. I know Rarity put you in charge of the store since it opened, and it has been busy ever since,” explained Rara as she closed the door.

“I know.” Coco placed her folder of fashion designs on the coffee table in the living room and got her notepad and measuring tape ready. “Shall we begin with your measurements?”

“Of course.” Rara placed her cup in the kitchen and returned to the living room where Coco was. She stood straight and held her arms out to her sides as Coco started to get her measurements and wrote them down in her notepad. Once Coco was done, she put away her measuring tape and placed her notepad on the table next to her designs. “Do you want anything to drink?” she asked as she was walking to the kitchen.

“Oh, just some water will be fine,” replied Coco.

Rara returned to the kitchen to fix a glass of water for Coco and a cup of tea for herself. She brought them to the living room and handed the glass to Coco, who was sitting on the couch. Rara sat next to her so that they could look over the designs that she had made.

“OK, so I was looking at your design that you once wore and came up with some designs of my own, plus a few that Rarity was able to mail to me earlier this week.” Coco spread out the designs that she had with her. One was the old one that Rara used when she was working under Svengallop. Others were new designs that adapted to her original hair instead of the fancy hair she once had attached to her original hair. She was able to make out the one that Rarity came up with after Svengallop left her and still needed something to perform in.

“I’m not sure about this one, Coco,” as Rara pointed to the one that Rarity had designed back then. “I was in a real panic when wearing that.”

“Oh she told me about that,” said Coco. “I’m thinking about removing the diamonds in your mane and tail, as well as some of the extra shinny things on the jacket. I think the color design looks nice on you anyway.”

“Well, if you say so.”

As they were looking over the designs, another knock came at the door.

“Who is it?” yelled Rara.

“Sapphire Shores.”

Rara’s eyes lit up. She got up and ran to the door, opening it. “Sapphire, you came. Tell me you have some good news for me.”

“I do,” replied Sapphire as she walked in and sat down on the chair near the couch. Rara closed the door and sat back down on the couch. “I was talking to some others in the industry and came up with an idea. A music talent show.”

“OK?” Rara was confused to the idea.

“We find you a partner to perform with, someone who wants to try their luck as an artist as well. And you get to be one of the judges,” explained Sapphire.

“But don’t you have several artists that you can pair me up with,” asked Rara. “I know there are some ponies that need help with their careers as well.”

“Well, maybe it’s someone new,” said Coco. “I hear that Rarity’s sister, Sweetie Belle, has been working on signing some more.”

“No, no, no. I mean a human artist.”

Now Rara was really confused, but Coco was able to catch on and explain.

“Of course! Rarity told me that there were several artists on Earth that have made it big over there, and some that are trying to make it big as well. This must be to help with human/pony relations. Rarity and her friends have been hard at work in doing this.”

“Now you’re thinking,” answered Sapphire. “Plus, you can start touring on Earth as well.

“I don’t know,” Rara replied with some concern in her voice. “I know our friends had a part in creating the bridge way to Earth, and I’ve seen some humans here on business, but I don’t know anything else about these humans and their lifestyles. What if it doesn’t work out?”

“I know. Why don’t you call up Applejack and ask her about the idea,” asked Coco. “Both her and Rarity are part of the Council of Friendship and have been to Earth.”

“I guess it wouldn’t hurt.” Rara got up and pulled out her crystal communicator from the cabinet and placed a call to Applejack. She made sure that Sapphire and Coco were there to listen in and explain Sapphire’s plan.

The deal was to have a music contest with the humans on Earth and see who would be willing to perform with Rara later on as a duo. Both of them would work on new music together and tour together in both Equestria and Earth. Rara will be one of the judges, along with a few human and pony judges to help.

“Well, when you think about, it sounds like a good plan,” answered Applejack on the communicator. “In fact, I know someone that I met on Earth who’s been trying his luck in the music industry. He’s a nice guy who lives close to Nashville, Tennessee of the U. S. of A. If you can get some fliers made up for this contest, I can hand him one and see if he wants to give it one last go.”

Rara asked, “He’s done this before?”

“Eeyep. Something about ‘The Voice’ or something like that,” explained Applejack.

“Oh, I know what you’re talking about.” Coco explained, “It’s a music competition that’s held there where four judges pick future artists based on their voice alone. Rarity told me about this during one of her visits.”

“Well, if they have shows like this, then I guess it’s worth a shot,” Rara said, still with a hint of concern in her voice.

“Don’t worry, Rara. I’m sure that it will work. I think word about you and Sapphire Shores has reached the U. S. of A. on these videos call YouTube. So if you were able to do this, I think you will get a big response from the humans over there,” explained Applejack.

“So, should I go forward with this?’ asked Sapphire.

Rara agreed. “By all means.”

“Sapphire Shores, if you need any help with this, just let me, Rarity, or even Twilight know, and we’ll be happy to help,” said Applejack.

“I’ve already got that covered, but I’ll keep you girls in touch if I need any help,” replied Sapphire.

“Thanks.” And the communicator was cut off.

“I hope you know what you are doing,” said Rara. “I want this to work out without any problems again like last time.”

Applejack's request

On the lower streets of Broadway in Music City, Nashville has been one of the biggest tourist attractions to humans and ponies alike. It has also been the friendliest to establish relations between both types. Both humans and ponies would walk the streets to listen to music, share drinks, exchange stories, and have fun. With the money exchange program in place, and equestrian passports for ponies to have around, it has made things easy for ponies to experience the lifestyles that humans enjoy.

And it is here that six mares walk the streets to visit a friend that they first met outside of their profession as the Ambassadors of Equestria. Applejack, who was wearing her usual red button-up shirt, blue jeans, and Stetson hat, was leading the group. She felt like that Nashville was more of a second home here. Next to her was Rainbow Dash, wearing her blue jogging pants, white shirt, and blue jacket with the Wonderbolts symbol on the back. Fluttershy was next to her, wearing a simple white sundress. On the other side of Applejack was Pinkie Pie, wearing her blue and pink party dress. And next to her was Rarity, dressed in a white blouse and long purple skirt.

As they were walking down the street, they were getting several looks. Actually, it was Rarity who was getting those looks from men and stallions alike, and Rainbow Dash didn’t like it.

“Seriously Rarity, did you have to go all out on this visit?” asked Rainbow Dash.

“Darling, if you plan to make a big impression, then you have to go big,” replied Rarity.

“But we’re in Nashville, not New York City. It’s like the difference between Appleloosa and Manehattan,” explained Rainbow Dash.

“Well, it’s not stopping you from all of those photo ops with the humans here,” explained Rarity.

“That’s because I’m a member of the Wonderbolts, and we’re well known in this world,” explained Rainbow Dash.

“Now, now. We came here to see our friend, Rick, while we’re taking some time off this weekend,” said Applejack.

“Is that why you brought that flier?”

Now Princess Twilight Sparkle would be the last one to join them, but she had to attend a princess conference, so it was her student, Starlight Glimmer, who came in her place. Wearing a lavender shirt and blue pants, she was still new to this human world…and also new to their new human friend.

“Indeed it is, Starlight,” said Rarity.

“Rick used to play music after he finished with college, but couldn’t make it big time,” explained Applejack. “He tried on this show called American Idol many years ago. I think it was in it’s second season, from what he’s told us, that he tried out. He made it through the auditions, but that’s as far as he got.”

“I think it had something to do with image,” added Rarity.

Applejack continued. “Anyway, he tried his luck in the local music scene, but wasn’t getting anywhere far, so he put it to the side and focused on work. Wasn’t until a new show call The Voice came on that he decided to try music again. The show only focuses on a person’s signing voice, but he didn’t get picked by any of the judges the first time he tried out. They said that he should work on his signing some more and come back next season. So he did and was able to join one of the teams, but was eliminated during the first elimination rounds. That’s when he decided to just give up on music.”

“So what has he been doing all this time?” asked Starlight.

“He used to work for some private company in the past, but their department moved to a new city a month ago, and he didn’t feel like moving,” explained Applejack. “He’s doing fine in the money area, but I don’t think he has yet to find a new job to keep him busy. I’m hoping this can get him going again.”

“You really think he’ll go for this?” asked Rainbow Dash.

“We saw the videos that he posted since we met him, and he does sound pretty good,” explained Rarity. “I think it’s worth a shot.”

“Come on, Rarity. You know he can do it,” said Pinkie Pie.

“You’re just saying that just to stay positive in all of this,” said Applejack.

“Doesn’t she always?” said Starlight. Pinkie Pie shook her head up and down while smiling from ear to ear.

“Um Applejack. Were are we going anyway?” asked Fluttershy.

“Legends Corner,” replied Applejack. “Best place for ponies to hang out with humans.”

“And they serve the best apple cider in America. Just close to the cider from the farm,” explained Rainbow Dash.

“That’s because I was able to work with some owners of an apple farm in America and showed them how we make it on our farm,” explained Applejack. “Been a big help for the ponies who visit this world. Besides, I already know the owner of Legends Corner and told him that we were coming. Just hope Rick shows up as well.”

As they continued walking down the street, they finally arrived to the building on the corner. Pinkie Pie was able to look through the window, and luck would have it that she was able to find Rick at the bar. “Found him!”

The others were able to look through the window and Starlight asked, “Which one is he?”

“He’s the man with the short brown hair, wearing the white shirt and tan slacks,” explained Rarity. “Should be easy to point out from there.”

The six mares went around the corner and walked inside. The boss working behind the bar noticed Applejack and wave at her, which she waved back. Rick turned around and noticed that Applejack and her friends were here. Well, all but one.

“Thanks for coming, Rick.”

“Thanks for inviting me, Applejack. Where’s Twilight?”

“At a princess conference, dear,” replied Rarity.

“Queen of England?”

Rarity sighed and said, “Yes, dear. I just wish I could be there to help.”

“You just wanted to see what the UK has to offer, that’s all,” said Rick. “Besides, I have a feeling that it takes royalty to work with royalty. Once everything works out, I’m sure you’ll have time to visit and help out.”

“I hope that you are correct, Rick,” replied Rarity.

Applejack leaned on the bar and said, “Hey boss. Six apple ciders for me and my friends.”

“No problem.” The boss went to the apple cider dispenser and begin pouring six mugs of cider.

Rick had a glass of water and took a sip before asking. “So who’s your friend here?”

“This is Starlight Glimmer,” responded Applejack.

“So you’re Twilight’s student, correct?” as Rick extended his hand to shake her hand.

“That’s…right,” Starlight responded nervously.

Rick went up to Starlight and whispered, “Don’t worry. We all make mistakes. We just learn from them and move forward.” He gave a wink, which made Starlight feel at ease. “So, Applejack. What is it that you wanted to talk to me about.”

“Want you to take a look at this.” Applejack took out the flier she brought and showed it to him.

Rick looked at the flier and said, “A talent show? You know I gave up on this some years ago.”

Applejack said, “We know that, but look at who it’s for?”

Rick looked at it again and said, “Countess Coloratura? That’s your friend, Rara, right?”

“Eeyep. She’s trying to get her career going again, and her new manager wants to pair her up with a human artist.”

“Why a human artist?” asked Rick.

“Rick, dear. Most ponies have cutie marks, which in a way defines what we can do,” Rarity explained. “And Sapphire Shores has taken over as manager to all of Svengallop’s clients, including Coloratura.”

“And it’s hard to know what you can do because you don’t get cutie marks, so you have to try what you can do, and keep trying if you want to get what you want,” added Applejack. “So it’s hard to find a rising artist when you already have a career in music anyway. And this can help with human and pony relations if a human was able to perform with a pony in both worlds.”

“Look, I know what you are trying to do, and I get it. But I haven’t tried to perform in years,” Rick explained. “I just don’t see the point of a thirty-something guy like myself having a chance to perform with a popular pony like her when there are other singers younger than me who are looking for their big break as well.”

“So what. You experienced talent shows like this before, and maybe it didn’t go so well, but that didn’t stop you from trying again,” Rainbow Dash explained. “And we saw your videos as well, and you sounded good in them. Plus, you have us. You were easy going when you first met me and Applejack when we were in Downtown Franklin. I’m sure you can get along with Rara easily when you win.”

“If I win,” Rick corrected.

The boss returned with six mugs of apple cider for Applejack and her friends when he saw the flier in Rick’s hands. “Can I see that?” Rick handed him the flier. He looked at it and saw the name on the flier. “Isn’t that the pop diva from Equestria?”

“I don’t know if pop diva would be the right choice of words to use about my friend, but that’s her alright,” replied Applejack. “She’s trying to revive her career, and her manager is thinking about doing this.”

“As long as he doesn’t do any harm to her or whoever will be performing with her.”

“You must be talking about her former manager, who was just in it for the perks,” said Rarity. “Her new manager is Miss Sapphire Shores, who is a well known fashion client of mine, by the way.”

“As long as any of them aren’t like that loser of a manager that’s been in the media as of late.”

“Now who can be worst than that?” asked Applejack. Rick whispered into Applejack’s ear the guy’s name and reason, which displeased her. “Are you kidding me? I swear, if Svengallop did THAT to Rara, I kick his sorry plot to the moon.”

“I figured you would do that,” said Rick.

The other mares were wondering what Applejack and Rick were talking about.

“Let’s just say that it’s…disturbing. I’ll explain when we get back home,” said Applejack. “Boss, if you want to post that around here, you’re welcome to do so. I’ll have more of those mailed out to some of the businesses later on.”

“Thanks Applejack.” And the boss pinned it to the wall and went to help other customers.

“So, you going to give it a shot?” asked Rainbow Dash.

“Yea, maybe you might finally get yourself a mare-friend,” Pinkie Pie added while twitching her eyebrows.

Applejack glared at her and said, “Pinkie, we are NOT here to hook Rick up.”

“Well, while I do think that you have the right idea Pinkie, Applejack does bring up a good point,” Rarity explained. “Besides, when celebs date other celebs, they sometimes fall apart. Let’s just focus on getting Rick’s music career off the ground.”

Starlight leaned over to Fluttershy and whispered, “What are they talking about?”

Fluttershy whispered back, “Rick’s been single for about 20 Earth years. So Pinkie and Rarity were thinking about helping him in that department, but his former co-workers have tried this in the past and has failed him on the spot.”

“Sounds like he just gives up easily,” whispered Starlight.

“I know the feeling,” whispered Fluttershy.

“Look. All we’re asking is for you to get it one last chance,” Applejack explained to Rick. “All you have to do is submit a recording and then perform at the show in about a month. That’s enough time to get your singing voice going again. If it doesn’t work out, then we won’t even bring it up again.”

“Promise?”

Applejack looked at the others and said, “Pinkie promise girls.”

All six of them spoke in unison as they repeated the motions.

“Cross my heart and hope to fly. Stick a cupcake in my eye.”

“Trust us. No one ever breaks a Pinkie promise,” said Pinkie Pie.

“OK. I’ll give it one last try…just for you girls. Just let Twilight know this as well.”

“Don’t you worry, partner. We will,” replied Applejack.

Rick raised his glass and the mares raised their mugs as they clanked them all together to celebrate this new opportunity and has been given to Rick.

Coco's Trust

Just days after committing to the talent show, Rick began to practice back in his apartment complex in Franklin, Tennessee. He made sure that his guitar was tuned, and that he had water to keep his voice in good shape. Applejack found time to visit him and hear him sing to see how he was doing, and to find out what song he has planned to submit on the demo tape. The song Rick picked out was “Life is a Highway”, which most people have heard of, but is wasn’t from Rascal Flatts, which has become to popular version, but from Tom Cochrone, who first played it decades ago.

Life is a highway

I want to ride it all night long

If you’re going my way

I want to drive it all night long

But it was at that point that there some concern in Applejack’s face and Rick stopped to asked her.

“Something wrong?”

“It’s just…your voice is, how should I put this, rough around the edges,” replied Applejack.

“I had a feeling it was going to be like that.” Rick grabbed his bottled water and took a drink before he could explain. “I haven’t singed in a few years, so it’s going to be hard to get it back in shape. And I have a little over a week to turn in a demo tape to the people hosting it before I can get the invite…if I get the invite.”

“I wish I know someone who can help, but the only ones I would know are the ones holding the event,” said Applejack.

Applejack took a moment to think of any pony who could help, but her thoughts would be interrupted when she started to get that feeling in her rear. She took a peek and saw her cutie make flashing.

“Cutie map calling you, AJ?”

“Looks like it.” Applejack started to get her crystal communicator out to call Twilight when it started to ring. Applejack answered it. “Applejack here.”

“Applejack,” said Twilight through the communicator. “Where are you at?”

“I’m at Rick’s place. This better be a false alarm.”

“It’s not. In fact, all of our cutie marks are going off. I’ll explain when you get here. How’s Rick doing with his demo tape.”

“Not going so well,” replied Applejack. “I’ll be there shortly.”

“Hold on there, Applejack. Rarity’s in Manehattan right now making a delivery. Let me get her to talk to you before you come back.” And Twilight ended the call in haste.

“Can’t see how Rarity can help me when she’s being called to the map as well.” Then her communicator rang again, which she answered.

“Applejack, this is Rarity. You’re at Rick’s, right?”

“Eeyep. Why you ask?”

“Activate your transponder. I’m sending someone over to take your place.”

Applejack turned on the communicator’s transponder. It wasn’t long before a small portal appeared, and an off-white mare came stumbling through. Applejack was able to grab her as she came out of the portal before it closed behind her.

“Applejack, did Coco make it there?” asked Rarity.

“I’m here, Rarity,” replied Coco Pommel.

“That’s good. Applejack, I’ll meet you back at Twilight’s castle.” Rarity ended the call.

“I guess you finally got your passport, Coco.”

“Yep. Rarity was able to deliver it to me with one of Twilight’s communicators and teleporter.” She looked to see the human in the room. “You must be Rick. Rarity’s told me about you.” Coco extended her hand for Rick to shake.

“Rick, this is Coco Pommel, Rarity’s assistant from Manehattan,” Applejack explained. “Both her and Rara live in the same apartment building back in our world.”

“Rarity was able to fill me in on what’s going on just as her cutie mark started flashing,” said Coco.

“Then that should make things easier for us to handle.” Applejack activate her teleporter that was on her bracelet, opening a small portal. “Well, I better see what friendship mission I have to deal with this time. I’ll send you a message so you know where you can come back to once I find out what’s going on.”

“Will do,” replied Coco. “Good luck.”

Applejack went through the portal, which closed after she passed through.

Coco was hesitant to speak, but decided to ask the question. “So…how’s the demo tape coming?”

“Not good,” replied Rick. “AJ said that it’s rough. Not sure if I can make it in.” He took a sip of water, which cause him to ask her. “You want something to drink?”

“Oh, just some water will be fine.”

Rick went over to the fridge and got a bottle of water out of it. He walked over and handed it to her.

“I’m guessing Rarity wanted you to have a passport so that you can travel with her on some of her business trips,” said Rick.

“Actually, it was Sapphire Shores who wanted me to get it. I plan to help out Rara when she starts touring, whenever that happens,” Coco explained. “Rarity was able to speed the process along and hand me the tools to do so. Might have to get used to traveling through a portal at times.”

“Well, there is the Crystal Portal Train that most ponies and humans use. They were able to use the old train station area in Nashville to install one,” said Rick.

“Well, I’m still new to all this, and Rarity is trying to get me used to it, since she has thought about bring me along to some of her business trips later on. Not sure if that will happen if I’m with Rara, but you never know,” explained Coco. “So, what song do you plan on singing?”

“Life is a highway,” Rick replied. “Want to hear what it should sound like?”

Coco nodded. So Rick went over to his laptop and pulled up the original music video.

After seeing the video, she asked Rick to sing and see how it sounded like. Rick complied and got his guitar, made sure it was tuned again, and started to sing and play the song. After he went through part of the song, he stopped to get Coco’s opinion.

“Well, I think I can understand what AJ is talking about, but I guess it sounds unique. It doesn’t have to be perfect.”

“I know you’re trying stay positive, but I still not sure it sounds good either,” Rick replied.

“That’s not it,” Coco said as she waved her hands. “It sounds unique. I think with a bit more practice, you might be able to convince the judges to have you perform in the show.”

Rick wasn’t convinced in this, so Coco decided to change the subject in a way.

“Look, I know you want to do your best, and I can understand. When I started to create the Midsummer Theatre Revival, I wanted it to be big, but with the park in a mess, and only Applejack and Rarity to help, we learned that we didn’t have to go big to make it happen. With just a small stage, we were able to get ponies who walked on by and stopped to watch the show. Now we have members who were able to bring new life to the park and add their support.”

“So, I should do what I can and let it happen?” said Rick.

“More like, trust your friends and trust yourself. You have friends right?” asked Coco.

“Besides my pony friends, it’s hard to say,” Rick replied. “Everyone I know from school, work, and the local convention scene are always busy with their own lives, so I rarely see them in person. And both home and work took over my life. Now I’m enjoying some freedom, but I sometimes wonder if it’s too little, too late.”

“There’s always time to enjoy life,” Coco responded. “Sure you have to work a lot, but as long as enjoy what you do, then it shouldn’t be a problem.”

“That might be true, but I had to work for a living. My dreams were to have a music career, but every time I tried to do so, there was always others who were better than me. Now I don’t even know if I have that same voice that I had in the past.”

Coco needed to lift Rick’s spirits. She looked around his room to get a better idea of him, and the first thing that crossed her mind was the pictures on a cork-board on the wall.

“Say, who are these people that you are with?” asked Coco.

“Oh those? Those are people I’ve met at either events or conventions,” Rick responded.

“Do they have a profession in music?” Coco asked Rick.

“It’s more mixed. Some are into music. Others are voice actors who spend their free time in music as well.” Rick started to point out some of the pictures on display. “For example, there’s Johnny Yong Bosh. Started off in acting and martial arts for a kids show called Power Rangers. Now he does voice acting for several anime shows video games, and started his own band called Eyeshine, which he’s the lead singer.”

Coco had a confused look on her face. “Anime?”

“Japanese cartoons for various ages. Might be best to have either Twilight or Rainbow Dash explain from their view. I did get them hooked on them since we’ve met.” Rick pointed to a shelf with DVD box sets on display. He turned his attention back to the cork-board. “Another voice actor that I’ve met was Vic Mignogna. He spends some of his time as a Christian artist.” Rick saw the confused look on Coco’s face and knew he had to explain. “It’s like they believe in their religion to God and perform songs that relate to it. Kinda like how your kind would pray to Princess Celestia, since she’s lived for thousands of years, since Twilight has never bother to ask for her age in the first place. You would have to think she was a goddess.”

“So are they all voice actors?”

“Not really, but they share something else beside music,” Rick replied. “There’s Lindsey Stirling, who dances and plays violin. And she has a love for video games that she would dress up as the main character from her favorite video game and play her version of the theme song. She even made it far in America’s Got Talent one year.”

“Rarity’s told me about that. It’s another talent show similar to what you tried to perform on,” explained Coco.

“It is. The main thing is that they are geeks or part of the geek fandom, which they enjoy. And that’s what I am as well, a geek. But even geeks have a hard time living a normal life in front of others, and sometimes it can be explained through music. And there are artists out there who prefer to tell the story or the hardships that others go through,” explained Rick.

“So, what you want to do with your music is tell the story of what you went through?” asked Coco.

“Not just me, but others as well,” Rick replied. “But whenever I try, it’s like I can’t get my foot in the door.”

“Then stop trying to be the best and be who you really are,” explained Coco. “Once the judges see what you can do, then I’m sure you can win.”

“Do you even know who the judges are?” asked Rick.

“Not really. But I do know that Rara will be one of them. And there’s supposed to be some human musicians who have experience in this as well,” explained Coco. “Just don’t stop practicing. There’s still time before you have to submit a demo tape. We just need to get the rust out of the system so that you can perform.”

“I guess you’re right,” Rick replied. He went back to grab his guitar and sat down. “Well, let’s see what I can do to make some improvement.”

So Coco stayed a while to listen to Rick practice and get her side of his singing. After a few hours of practice, and some small improvement, Coco decided to head back home. She already got her instructions from Applejack on how to return to Twilight’s castle through the portal. Once she did, she was able to catch a train back to Manehattan and was able to walk back to her apartment. As she was walking up to the door to her room, Rara was able to walk downstairs to greet her.

“So, how was your visit to the human world?”

“It was…interesting,” Coco replied as she unlocked and opened the door. She gestured Rara to enter, which Rara replied.

“What all did you do while you were there?” asked Rara.

“Just covering for AJ on helping Rick getting ready for the talent show,” replied Coco.

“So he’s one of the humans who’s trying out to be my singing partner?”

“Yep. And you know, while I don’t want this to affect your decision of who you would want as your partner, but there’s something special about him,” Coco explained. “I can understand why Rarity has been trying to help him with finding a companion, and I did my best to avoid the topic, but I think it’s more like he’s trying to find his own path, and it’s something that he has a hard time doing alone.”

Twilight's plan

Rick was able to get his demo tape done and sent to the talent show team. It wouldn’t be until a week later when he would get the letter saying that he was one of the artist to perform at the talent show. What was better was that it was being held in Nashville, making it easier to drive down there and back. All he had to do was play the same song that he submitted at the talent show. But he would have to come in days before the event to practice with band members to make sure he was ready to perform at the show.

Applejack and her friends also learned about the contest and made plans to attend and support Rick, knowing that he was able to get his foot in the door. There were dozens and dozens of artist performing at the event, and it was going to take several hours for all of the artists to perform. Rick was able to perform during the third hour, and his performance was better than they expected. Once he performed, it turned into a waiting game for several more hours.

Each artist that performed after him sounded just as good as him, or even those that performed before him. This brought back memories of how he couldn’t get far in past singing contests. But his pony friends were there to support him no matter what happens.

Night had fallen outside, and the last artist performed their song. And it was now up to the judges to decide which artist would go to the final round tomorrow. Rick was with his seven pony friends, waiting for the judges to announce the finalist.

“So, how many do they select to the final round?” asked Rainbow Dash.

“I believe it to be twenty,” replied Rarity.

“I will say this, but there were some good singers that performed today,” Applejack explained, “but I know you’ll get picked, Rick.”

“Thanks. At least I’m not going through round after round like the other contests,” replied Rick.

Twilight saw someone walking across the stage with a mic and a piece of paper. “Look. I think Sapphire Shores is about to announce the finalist.”

Sapphire Shores spoke into the mic and said, “Thank you for coming to the Equestria Talent Search. Our judges have made their selections on the twenty finalists to perform tomorrow.” Sapphire Shores started to read off the list of the selected artist and their picture was displayed on the video screen at the back of the stage. As each name was read, Rick hope his name was one of them. But sadly it wasn’t. It was after nineteen names were called that it came down to the last one. The ponies had their fingers crossed, hoping that it would be Rick as the last name called.

“And our last artist to perform in the finals is…Rick Barns!”

The mares around him cheered with him and exchanged hugs with each other. Well, except Pinkie Pie. Twilight warned her about squeezing him too hard like last time.

“Will all finalists report to the back of the stage so that you can prepare for tomorrow’s finals. Thank you all for coming.”

“Well, I better go down and find out how the finals will be played out,” said Rick.

“We’ll wait for you outside,” said Applejack.

While all seven ponies made their way outside, Rick made his way to the back of the stage to meet with the other finalists on what needs to be done for tomorrow.

Sapphire Shores had some papers with her to pass out to the finalists. “OK. Congratulations on making it to the finals. What I have here is the song selection for each of you to perform in the finals, divided by what type of singer it’s for and what style it is. Now you have to chose which song you wish to sing tomorrow morning so that you can practice with the band members, and you can not use the song that you sung today. We want to see how well you can perform on the spot. So take your time and report to me tomorrow morning. Good luck.”

Sapphire Shores left the area, and all the artists were looking over the sheet and had ideas on what to select for their final song. But Rick looked through the list and wasn’t sure which song to pick. As the others made their way out of the building, Rick decided to do the same and join up with the other ponies waiting for him.

“So, what do you have to do for the finals?” asked Pinkie Pie.

Rick let out a sigh and said, “I have to perform a new song from the list given to me.”

“That doesn’t sound so hard,” said Twilight.

“So why is it that you don’t sound excited about this?” asked Applejack.

“I’m not sure what song I feel like singing,” Rick explained. “Most of these listed are the popular ones out there, and most of the ones that I have heard that are listed are from female artists. Most of the ones that had a male artist would be from the band and not a solo artist, so I’m not sure which one to pick.”

The mares looked at the list and were able to make out some of the songs listed from their times they had to come to the human world. Well, except for Starlight Glimmer. She hadn’t had a chance to hear the music this world had to offer except for what was performed today.

“Perhaps the band members are familiar with the songs listed on here,” said Starlight.

“You might be right, since they had to look up the songs that were selected by the artists in advance,” explained Rarity.

“So what’s wrong with these songs?” asked Starlight.

“I think it has to do with how you feel about what you want to sing,” Applejack explained. “Like some of the songs from Kelly Clarkson. I heard that she started to write her own music based on what she wants her fans to listen to, instead of what her former manager wanted her to sing.”

“So it’s more about what the artist wants to describe instead of what the fans like to hear, right?” said Starlight.

“Eeyep.”

Starlight started to think before she had an idea. “Couldn’t you make an exception in choosing a song?”

“If I had my own band, then it can be possible,” replied Rick. “But I don’t, so that’s out of the question.”

It was then that Twilight had an idea. “Say, can any of you girls play any instruments?”

The mares looked at each other before any of them could respond.

“Well, I did play piano to help Sweetie Belle with her singing back then,” explained Rarity.

“And I still have my guitar stored away back on the farm,” explained Applejack. “Any reason why you asking us this?”

“Well, remember that time when I had to return to the mirrored world to face the sirens?” asked Twilight. The other mares, except for Starlight, nodded. “Well, we had to use music to defeat them, and your human counterparts played certain instruments in the process. Applejack and Rainbow Dash played different guitars, Pinkie Pie played drums, Fluttershy played the tambourine, and Rarity played some kind of portable piano, I think.”

“It’s called a keytar,” Rick said. “It’s a small, electric piano with buttons that helps set the octaves to the device. I learned about it when a female artist who goes by Lights use one for some of her songs back then.”

“Anyway, if they were able to play instruments in their world, then maybe you can do the same,” explained Twilight.

“Well dud. Playing drums is easy,” said Pinkie Pie.

“Um, I don’t know if I can help out,” said Fluttershy.

“Don’t worry. I don’t expect you, me, or Starlight to help out on stage this time,” Twilight explained. “We just need the others to help…that is if Rainbow Dash can play guitar.”

“Well, Spitfire did give me a guitar, which I have played a bit,” Rainbow Dash explained. “She wants me to take part in the Wonderbolts own band, since she doesn’t have any time to perform with them as well.”

“You mean the Wonderbolts have a band as well?” asked Rick.

“Yea. It’s something Spitfire created long ago as a side job for the group. You know, to get a few bits on the side. She even got Soarin on drums for the group.”

“Well, it looks like we have our own band to help Rick out,” said Applejack. “But how in the hay do you plan to get us to play with Rick in all of this?”

“Glad you ask,” replied Twilight. “You, me, and Rarity are going to see Sapphire Shores and see if she can make an exception to tomorrow’s performance for Rick. The rest of you will go back to Rick’s place and see if there’s a song that Rick feels like singing for tomorrow. I’m sure you would want to use a song from some of the albums that you have, right?” Rick nodded. “Well, let’s see what we can do to help Rick out.”

Rarity knew where Sapphire Shores was staying for the night and took Twilight and Applejack to see her. Rick took the others back to where he parked his car and drove the group back to his place in Franklin. When they arrived, he was able to pull out his CDs to show the others what he had so that they can get an idea on what might work for tomorrow.

“Alright. Let’s get Rick rolling here.”

Rick just stared at Pinkie Pie.

“Oh come on, Rick. You know we’re never going to-”

“Say it and I’m tossing you out of the window,” Rick said, cutting Pinkie off. “Pray that the laws of physics don’t apply to you like it does back in Equestria.”

“So, what song would you like to sing?’ asked Rainbow Dash.

“I’m not sure. There’s too many to chose from,” replied Rick.

Fluttershy said, “Maybe, something lite?”

“Or maybe something funky,” said Pinkie Pie.

“I don’t think those ideas will work if we want to impress Rara and the other judges,’ said Rainbow Dash.

But Starlight saw one CD case with the words “Lostprophets Start Something” on it and took it out. She went to look at the back of the case to learn more about it.

“Hey Starlight. What you have there?” asked Rainbow Dash.

“A case with lost prophets start something labeled on it.”

“Oh, that’s the band Lostprophets,” Rick explained. “First album I got from that group. Haven’t heard from them in years and I only have that album and the next one from them.

Starlight was curious. “Is it one word or two?”

“One,” Rick replied. “They released a couple of songs on the radio, but had one hit that got me hooked.”

He pointed to the song “Last Train Home”, and this made Starlight more curious.

“Think we can listen to it?” asked Starlight.

But before Rick could answer, a small portal opened, and Twilight, Rarity, and Applejack came through the portal before it closed behind them.

“So, what happen?” asked Rainbow Dash.

“Good news. As long as he picks a song of his choosing, and we can play with him, she’s going to allow it. But we have to let her know what song it will be so that she can listen to it first,” explained Twilight. “Have you chosen a song yet?”

“Well…” He stopped for a moment and remember the CD that Starlight had out and thought of an idea. “I think this one will do. Last train home.” He took the CD from Starlight to show it to the others. “I’ll let you borrow the CD so that you girls can listen to the song and see if you can play it. I can look it up online and make sure I know the lyrics again, since I haven’t heard this song in a while.”

Applejack said, “You sure?”

“Yea. I’m sure it will come back to me when I hear it. Comes naturally to me.”

“Well, we better get started,” said Applejack.

Twilight opened the portal so that the others were able to travel back to Equestria and make the preparations for tomorrow’s performance.

Twilight and Rarity went to see Sapphire Shores in the morning explaining to her what song Rick plans to sing, while Applejack was able to get in touch with the boss of Legends Corner to see if they can use his bar for them to practice while it was closed, since it was Sunday and there wouldn’t be and there wouldn’t be anyone around to disturb them. Rick, Applejack, and Rainbow Dash brought their own guitars, while a drum set and electric keyboard were provided for Pinkie Pie and Rarity. Twilight and Rarity showed up to the bar to meet up with the others to explain more about their performance.

“OK. Talked with Sapphire Shores and she said that she will allow that song to be played tonight. But you will have to play last in the finals,” explained Twilight.

“Good,” replied Applejack. “The boss here was able to provide us with a drum set for Pinkie Pie and a keyboard for Rarity.”

“The keyboard is just like your piano, so I can get you set up on the features for the song,” Rick explained to Rarity.

“Thanks Rick. Twilight told me a bit about those that she saw in the mirrored world, so I think I can catch on quite quickly. But I must say, Sapphire was very pleased with this decision that we’re making.”

“Yea, maybe too pleased,” Twilight added.

“Let’s just focus on tonight while we still have this chance,” said Applejack.

So the group went to practice with Rick leading the group. He and Rainbow Dash played lead guitars while Applejack played bass guitar. Rick was able to show Rarity what settings to have the keyboard on, so she was able to play it with ease. And Pinkie Pie was able to adjust with the basic drum set. They spent a few hours on the song while taking breaks, getting it polished for his performance tonight.

When evening came, the finals were in full swing. Rick was a bit nervous because he had to play last on the show. Hearing each artist play made him more nervous, but Applejack was by his side, making sure he felt calm before his performance. As the artist before him finished playing and left the stage, the band members also left the stages as well. That was when Applejack, Rainbow Dash, Pinkie Pie, and Rarity, each wearing clothes that helped them blend in with the stage, went up and got their gear set up and ready before Rick went on to get his gear ready.

The announcer went out and said, “And now our last artist for tonight. Singing ‘Last Train Home’ by the Lostprophets, here is Rick Barns!”

Up in the judges’ booth, Rara leaned over to Coco, who was helping out with the supplies for the judges. “Isn’t that AJ with him?” she whispered.

“Yea. And I think Rarity is there as well. I wonder why?” whispered Coco.

As the song ended, there was a big applause from the audience. Rick felt hopeful that he did his best tonight, and that his friends were able to help him make this happen. Now it was left to the judges to decide who Rara’s partner would be.

The judges went through each artist and made their top picks to be tallied together. As Sapphire Shores went through the list, Rara went backstage with Coco following her.

“So, you think you have an idea of who your partner would be?” asked Coco.

“I think so,” Rara replied. “I mean, I know who my top five are, but that would depend on how the other judges made their picks as well. So it may not be the top pick I made.”

“If you don’t mind me asking, but what did you think about Rick? You know, Applejack’s friend,” asked Coco.

“Well, he sounds good. They all do. But Rick…there’s something about him that I can’t put my finger on it. I hope he makes it far, even if it’s not with me,” replied Rara.

“Well, that might be hard to say. Rarity said that this might be his last chance to make it big in music,” explained Coco.

Rara stopped for a moment. “You sure?”

Coco turned around to look back at Rara. “He’s 38 in Earth years, which is kinda old for a human. He thinks that it might be time to move on, if he’s able to do so.”

Rara continued walking to the backstage area, wondering if she made the right picks on her list.

Sapphire Shores finished looking over the judges’ picks and started to make her way to the stage to announce the winner. The finalists walk across the stage, lined up next to each other. Rick was nervous because this was his last chance to get into the music business. His friends were watching him from the side of the stage, hoping he would be picked.

Sapphire Shores spoke into the mic once again. “Thank you everyone for coming to the Equestria Talent Search finals. Let’s give a round of applause to our finalists one more time.” The audience responding with cheers and clapping. “Now, our judges have made their picks and we have tallied their results. The winner of this contest will have a contract with our record label and perform with Countess Coloratura. Now, I would like to announce our winner.” A drum roll was heard from the speakers. “The winner…of the Equestria Talent Search…is…”

“RICK BARNS!!!”

Rick’s eyes went wide in shock. He wasn’t sure if he was dreaming or not. But it was the other finalist who went up to him and congratulate him for his win. Rick knew that this was real and walked up to Sapphire Shores to shake her hand for winning. Everyone was cheering and clapping, even his pony friends.

The building was finally empty as everyone started to go home. Rick got a few more thanks from some of the finalist, which he returned offering them his support if they were to continue to pursue their music careers. His pony friends were still around, hoping to talk to him before heading back to Ponyville.

“Well, looks like you finally made it big time,” said Applejack. “We’re all proud of you.” The other ponies nodded in agreement.

“You told me to give it a shot, and I did. Now I finally have a music career that I’ve been wanting all this time,” explained Rick.

“We better head back home. Just let us know if you still need any help,” said Twilight.

“I will. Just make sure you visit when you can,” replied Rick.

Twilight went to open the portal, and all seven ponies went through and headed back to their own world.

“Mr. Barns! Mr. Barns!”

Rick looked over to see Sapphire Shores walking up with Rara and Coco next to her.

“Mr. Barns. I’m glad you are still here,” said Sapphire.

“Please, call me Rick.”

“Certainly. I’m sure you’ve met Coco Pommel before.”

“Yes I have,” Rick replied. “She was able to help me out while Applejack was on a friendship mission.”

“And this is Countess Coloratura, who you will be performing with later on.”

“It’s nice to meet you,” replied Rara as she extended her hand to shake Rick’s.

“It’s nice to meet you too, Miss Coloratura.”

“Please, you can call me Rara, since we’re both friends of Applejack. Both her and Coco have told me about you, and I’m glad that you won the contest. Must have been hard getting into the music career.”

“It has been, but I’m glad to finally be in the music career,” replied Rick.

“Speaking of which, I was hoping that we can get the contract details out of the way,” said Sapphire. “It’s a joint contract and Miss Coloratura has already looked it over and signed her part. I wanted to make sure you look it over before you sign it.”

Rara explained, “It’s a two year contract, which allow us to work together on a new group album. It will also allow us to tour together in both Equestria and in the United States. Part of the money earned will be split between us and any other party members that will tour with us.”

Rick looked over most of the details of the contract, looking for any catch to this. “Is it two Earth years or Equestria years?”

“Two Earth years,” replied Sapphire. “But we are still trying to compare the difference between the two worlds. I’m sure Princess Twilight Sparkle is still getting trying to solve that part, but she believes that we follow with your world’s time than ours for now.”

“Good enough with me.” Rick made sure there wasn’t any other catches and decided to sign the contract. “So when do we start working on music?”

“I was hoping you can move in with Coloratura soon. Then we can see about getting to work on music,” explained Sapphire.

“Well, I’m sure Twilight can get something worked out for me to come to Equestria,” said Rick.

“I don’t think we have to worry about that, now that both of you are a couple.”

Rara and Rick were confused as to what Sapphire Shores was talking about.

“You mean us as a duo,” Rara clarified.

“No, a couple. Says so in this part right here.” Sapphire pointed to a section of the contract to the others that had some kind of seal next to it. Coco was able to recognize the seal.

“Is that…Princess Celestia’s Seal?”

“Sure is,” Sapphire replied. “She helped me with parts of the contract, since it’s a part of human/pony relations.”

Coco took a moment to gather her thoughts before she could explain. “That means both of you are…married.”

Rick and Rara looked at each other, and only one response came to mind.

“WHAT!!!”

Author's Note

And so it begins.

:pinkiehappy: And for those who caught on to the story earlier...

A marriage made in...

Back in Manehattan, Rara was walking back and forth. Ever since the talent show ended, she was in distress that the contract she signed doubled as an Equestrian marriage certificate. She was officially married to a human.

“I can’t believe this,” explained Coco. “How can she do this? She said I was going to revive my career with a human, not get married to one.”

“Now, now dear. I’m sure Sapphire Shores has a good reason for doing this,” replied Rarity.

Rarity, Fluttershy, and Coco decided to stay with her in her apartment after hearing about the so-called marriage.

“A good reason?” replied Rara. “A GOOD REASON??? Svengallop was bad enough to use my talents just to spoil himself, but this goes way beyond that.”

“Um, maybe she got the wrong papers from Princess Celestia,” replied Fluttershy. “I mean this would be related to human/pony relations.”

“I’ve read it before, and it’s the contract that was met for me and my singing partner. Where this marriage part comes in, I have no clue!” Rara yelled, causing Fluttershy to hide behind her hair. “I’m sorry. I forgot that you can be sensitive at times.”

“That’s OK,” replied Fluttershy.

Rarity explained, “Well, this is Rick that your married to. And he is a nice guy and all, so-”

Coco cut her off. “RARITY!!! I can understand that you want to help Rick with his relationship problems, but this is Rara we’re talking about, OK?”

“I’m sorry,” replied Rarity. “That was uncalled for.”

Coco walked up and placed her hands of Rara’s shoulders. “Look, I’m sure Applejack and Twilight will get to the bottom of this. So let them handle this and we’ll go through there.”

But it was a different story back in Rick’s apartment in Franklin. Rainbow Dash and Pinkie Pie were with Rick, who was lying down on his bed trying to figure out what just happen the other night.

“I’m…married. I’m…married. I’m……married?”

“Yep. That’s what it looks like,” Pinkie Pie replied as she was playing a kart game on Rick’s Gamecube console.

“I’m sure there’s a good reason for all this,” said Rainbow Dash.

“How can there be a good reason? I’ve haven’t been on a date since…since…”

“Forever?” replied Pinkie Pie. “You want to hit me with a green shell? Then have a red shell instead.”

“Look, right now, you’re just married to Rara in Equestria, not on Earth,” explained Rainbow Dash. “I’m sure there’s a difference, right?”

“It’s the same as getting married in another country, I believe,” replied Rick. “If I’m married, then I’m married.”

“Then your married to one of the hottest mare out of Equestria,” replied Pinkie Pie. “Hey, nice try with the banana peel, but I’m better than that.”

Rainbow Dash looked at her and said, “Can you focus, Pinkie?”

“Of course I can. I’m Pinkie Pie, remember.”

“So all that’s needed is the Princess’ seal, right?” asked Rick.

“If it’s from Princess Celestia, then it’s official,” explained Rainbow Dash.

“Yea. She did host the wedding to Cadence and Twilight’s brother, Shining Armor,” explained Pinkie Pie.

“Which we found out that Cadence was really the changeling queen,” Rainbow Dash added.

“But still, Shining Armor did get married to the real Cadence,” explained Pinkie Pie. “And there was Cranky Doodle and Matilda, which she also hosted.”

“We were lucky to witness it happen after dealing with that bug-bear that tried to attack Ponyville,” explained Rainbow Dash. “Maybe she just wants to make sure nothing crazy happens again with this marriage, if that’s what she was trying to do in the first place.”

“Damn it,” yelled Pinkie Pie. “Someone hit me with a blue shell. I’ll make them pay.”

“Rick, I can’t believe you got her hooked on these video games,” said Rainbow Dash.

“Must be different from the arcade machines you have in your world,” said Rick.

“Maybe so, but there are some things that you have here that you might not find in Equestria,” replied Rainbow Dash.

Back in Manehattan, Twilight Sparkle, Applejack, and Starlight Glimmer went to see Sapphire Shores to get some answers.

“You better have a darn good reason for doing this to my friend, Rara,” yelled Applejack.

“I wanted to help get Coloratura’s career started again, and this felt like the best decision,” explained Sapphire Shores.

“By hooking them up on the spot,” replied Applejack.

Twilight decided to intervene. “Look, I understand what you’re trying to do, but human/pony relations of this nature should be left by us. And so far, I don’t see the point of taking things to that level too soon. How were you able to even get Princess Celestia’s seal to approve of this?”

“Because we came to an agreement on this.”

The mares looked back to see Princess Celestia herself at the doorway. Wearing a light pink business suit and skirt, it was apparent that she was here on business.

“Celestia, you mean that you went along with this?” replied Twilight.

Celestia walked next to Sapphire and replied, “Yes Twilight.”

“By why?”

“When you told me about how you met Rick and the hardships that he had to go through, I figure that he could be able to overcome this challenge,” explained Celestia. “And Applejack, I know what Svengallop did to your friend, Rara, and it’s something that I will not let happen again.”

“Then why go through with this?” replied Applejack. “I mean, what if it was someone else, maybe a lady instead of a guy.”

“I had plans should that happen,” replied Sapphire. “But Princess Celestia was confident that Rick would win, thanks to your help.”

“You mean you wanted this to happen in the first place?” replied Twilight.

“In other words, you used us anyway to make sure Rick would win, right?” said Applejack.

“Exactly,” replied Sapphire.

“But why have them married?” explained Twilight. “I mean, how would both world respond to this when they learn about it?”

“Perhaps I should explain.”

The mares looked back to the door again and were met by an orange unicorn with fiery red and yellow hair. She was wearing a light blue blouse and black jacket.

“Sunset Shimmer? What are you doing here?” asked Twilight.

“I’ve been working with my old mentor on a new project, that doesn’t involve magic for once,” replied Sunset.

“A new project?” replied Twilight.

“Yes,” replied Sunset. “Ever since you helped my brother, Sunburst, with making the portal stable to Earth, you’ve been asking me about the similarities between that world and the mirrored world. Princess Celestia wanted me to do some…unusual research with the human population and if there was a similarity between both worlds. Tell me, what’s the mare to stallion ratio in Equestria?”

Twilight and Applejack started to think before one of them answered.

“I think it’s four mares to one stallion,” replied Twilight.

“And go back to when Ponyville was founded, what was the ratio back then?” asked Sunset.

“Three to one,” replied Applejack.

“See where I’m going with this,” said Sunset.

“I guess, but that doesn’t even explained why Rick and Rara should be married,” explained Twilight.

“Well, I’ve learned that the male to female ratio is almost balanced in the mirrored world. So there’s a good chance that Earth is the same thing, if not similar,” explained Sunset.

“But why have a pony mate with a human?” asked Applejack.

“If there are more mares born than stallions in Equestria, then it could be the end of the pony race in the far future,” explained Sunset.

“I think I understand,” replied Starlight Glimmer. “There is a sex change spell that can allow a mare to change into a stallion, but it requires a lot of magic to make this happen. And unless you’re an alicorn, or somepony like me, it’s next to impossible to make it happen.”

“But can this even work?” asked Twilight.

“I was just asking Twilight that same question…I mean the human Twilight,” replied Sunset. “It might be possible that a mare who was to mate with a human male would give birth to a pony instead of a human. But this just a theory to her anyway.”

“Do you think this would even work? I mean, this is Rick and Rara that we’re talking about,” asked Applejack.

“Well, Adagio did say that she was a mother when she was banished to the mirrored world back then, which I find it hard to believe. And she was still a siren at that time,”explained Sunset.

“There’s still one problem. How do you think the humans would react to this?” explained Applejack. “Earth has had its share of history of conflicts. They had to deal with inter-racial dating, then same sex marriage. And all that led to others thinking it was some kind of sin to their world. Now we’re dealing with humans and ponies dating. That’s like unleashing a bag of para-sprites to the world.”

Sunset corrected Applejack. “It’s known as inter-species dating, and it would be like opening Pandora’s Box to some. But I’m sure that others will support Rick and Rara in this decision.”

Twilight was confused. “Inter-species dating? Pandora’s Box?”

“I know. You can blame the other girls for getting me hooked on some of the shows that they like to watch,” said Sunset.

“Do you even think they can make it work? I mean, there has to be a spark between them for this to happen. We can’t just force then to do this,” explained Applejack.

“What are you talking about?” Starlight asked Applejack.

“Rick heard this from a female friend that he met at some convention years ago. She said that if she was to find that right guy, there has to be a spark between them. And Rick has been thinking the same thing about the girls he comes across. Somehow, he can’t find that spark with any girl out there.”

“Kinda like how Spike has been trying to take things to the next level with Rarity?” asked Starlight.

“Eeyep.”

“I think with time, things will work out between Rick and Rara,” explained Celestia. “Besides, I did explain this idea with Mr. President during our time in the UK, and he’s willing to support this plan. And right now, Rick has full admittance to Equestria because of this marriage. We just need to take care of several passports for our ponies to tour on Earth later on.”

“Just curious, but who else will be touring with them? I hear that Coco will be helping out on the tour,” said Applejack.

“Well, let’s just say that I was able to hire some of Svengallop’s members that worked with him and Coloratura. I think they will be glad to help Coloratura out on her tour,” explained Sapphire. “For now, let’s just help Rick get adjusted to Equestria first and spend some private time with Coloratura. Since Coco lives in the same building with her, I’m sure she can help him out if problems come up.”

“And just so you know, it’s best to keep the details limited. I want to make sure it works out between them without forcing it on them,” explained Celestia.

“Not sure we can limit the details, but we’ll try,” responded Applejack.

Author's Note

Some things to point out.

Starlight's sex change spell -> look into the kilala97 universe and look into the Starlight x Trixie shipping, where Starlight is the "father" to Trixie's foal, Dove.

Adagio as a mother -> Read Mother Adagio, which is a great story from Jay the Brony.

Rick and Rara

After a lengthy discussion, Twilight and Applejack were able to explain to the others, minus Rick and Rara, about all the details and how they should explain it to the couple. Coco, who was going to be around them most of the time, decided to tell them that it was to help them live together in both worlds without any problems. They would still need certain passports to help them get around as a safety measure, which would be easy for Rick in Equestria, but they hope to get Rara’s passport for Earth soon. And it could also help them in creating music based on the experience that they share together.

Rick and Rara wasn’t sure if they believed her, but decided to go along with it and hope for the best. Since Rick was cleared to come to Equestria, he decided to move in with Rara for the time being. With the help of his pony friends, they were able to help him move some items from his apartment in Franklin.

“Thanks for helping me with some of the items I’ll need while I’m here,” Rick said as he was carrying a suitcase with some of his clothes.

“Oh it’s no problem, Rick. We’re happy to help out,” Rarity said as she was using her magic to carry another suitcase of Rick’s clothes.

“Eeyep. We know you’ll be her a while until Miss Shores can get something established for both of you to live in,” Applejack added as she and Pinkie Pie were carrying a trunk with some of Rick’s possessions.

Twilight was carrying a box that had some electrical stuff that Rick wanted to bring. Rainbow Dash decided to carry Rick’s guitar and laptop. And Starlight and Fluttershy decided to carry some bags of food from Earth so that Rick would have something to eat, since ponies don’t eat meat and they weren’t sure what food Rick would like in Equestria.

As they finally made it to Rara’s floor, they saw the door to Rara’s room open, revealing Coco at the doorway.

“I thought that sounded like you girls,” Coco said. “Come in. We just getting things ready for Rick.”

The group went on in and started to place Rick’s belongings in place. Rick looked around to get an idea of Rara’s room, which was a bit simple, and maybe old fashion, than Rick’s apartment. He saw Rainbow Dash placed his guitar next to Rara’s upright piano, which Rick was glad to see in the room. But he was surprised to see that the living room, kitchen, and bedroom was all in one big room. The bathroom was the only room he could see that could offer him some privacy.

Twilight placed the box that she was carrying next to a desk in the room. “Where’s the outlet?” she asked.

“Right under the desk,” Rara replied. “But do you think it would be OK for him to use this kind of…equipment here?”

“Oh don’t worry,” replied Twilight. “The magical energy in this world is just like the electrical energy that is produced on Earth. All we need is the right surge protector to handle it. Luckily, I already did this some months ago with some of the same stuff that the humans were able to give me. There shouldn’t be any problems with this kind of stuff. The only catch is that we don’t have Wi-Fi in this world.”

Rara had a confused look on her face. “Wi-Fi?”

“Another name for the internet,” Rick said. “It’s how we communicate with the entire world, to some degree. When we start touring on Earth, I’ll show you some of that stuff. Right now, I need my computer to help with writing my music.”

As they were unpacking some of their items, Rara took noticed of a strange purple and black box.

“What’s this?” she asked.

Pinkie noticed what Rara was pointing at. “Oh, that’s a GameCube. It’s like those arcade machines you find at some stores, but smaller. And you can insert your own game into it.”

“I know you don’t have televisions in here, and that the only kinds of entertainment would be movie theaters or arcade games,” said Rick.

“Not to mention we have radios and vinyl record players to use at home,” added Applejack.

“Well, I really don’t have a problem with the old stuff since I remember seeing it when I was much younger, but I would like to have some of the common stuff every now and then,” explained Rick. “Plus, I was lucky to have a portable monitor to go with that unit.”

“Is this everything from your home?” Rara asked Rick.

“Not everything. Just the basics. I was able to explain things to my landlord, and he was able to let me keep it with a slight discount, since I won’t be there often, but I needed a place to keep the rest of my stuff until later on. I’ve already paid in advance for the next three months, and he plans to make sure that it’s left untouched. So we have a place to go to on Earth if you ever want to get away.”

“That’s…nice,” replied Rara.

With everything finally unpacked and put away, the other mares said their goodbyes and left the room, leaving Rick and Rara to themselves. Both of them looked at each other, trying to find a way to break the ice into the so-called relationship. Rara was the first to speak.

“So, what do you want to do now?”

“Well…” Rick looked around to see if there was something to do, but somehow couldn’t find anything that stood out. “Is there…anything you need done to help with you music career?” Rick just mentally face-palmed at what he just asked. ‘Good job, loser.’

“Actually, I had some lyrics that I’ve been working on, but it doesn’t sound right.” Rara went to grab a stack of papers that she had on the coffee table. “Do you think you can help me with it?”

“Um, sure,” replied Rick. ‘OK, maybe I’m not a loser,’ he thought.

So they spent most of the day looking over some of the lyrics and added music to them. By the time the sun had sent and the moon risen, they were able to get a couple of songs done and called it a day. Rara grabbed a change of clothes and went to the bathroom. Rick took the time to get changed himself. He decided to grab a white v-neck shirt and a pair of dark blue boxer shorts and got out of his usual t-shirt, pants, and shoes. Once he finished getting changed, he went to grab a can of fruit punch from the refrigerator to drink and walked to the balcony to look at the view.

As he was taking a sip from his drink, he hear the sound of a door opening. He looked behind and was shocked at what he was seeing. Rara walked out wearing a black sports bra and black running shorts.

“Enjoying the view,” said Rara.

Rick shook his head, snapping him out of what he was seeing. “Which view are you referring?”

Rara let out a small giggle. “The view out there, silly,” she replied as she pointed to the park outside.

Rara walked over to stand next to Rick and looked at the park across the street. Rick decided to turn around and do the same.

Rara decided to asked Rick a question. “So, how was it that you met Applejack?”

“Happened some months ago,” Rick replied. “She was with Rainbow Dash looking for farm land in hopes to bring some of the fruit trees from Equestria to Earth to see how well they would grow in my world. I hear that there were some unique fruits in this world.”

“There is,” replied Rara.

“Well, they decided to get something to eat in downtown Franklin, not far from where I live. I was also at the same place that they went to just to listen to some local entertainment while getting some things done on my computer. I needed to go somewhere to help clear my head anyway. As I was working, both AJ and Dash are walking behind me and were curious as to what I was doing. I was startled at first, but was able to explain what I was doing. They asked if they could sit next to my at my table, and I just said yes. Told me what they were doing in the area, and I gave them a few ideas to look into, since I used to live in the farm area with my father before he passed away.”

“Oh, I’m sorry to hear that,” replied Rara.

“That’s OK. Age and health finally caught up to him a few years back. At least he was able to die in peace. I was stuck with the family estate, since my mother passed away decades ago while I was still younger. Dad never re-marry in the first place, so I was left the house and everything that was with it. I was able to finally get everything taken care of and sell the house so I can finally move on with my life. But back to the story.

“All three of us spent the time talking about the similarities between our worlds and more about each other. AJ asked if there was a way for us to keep in touch if they every return to the area. So I wrote down where I lived and how to contact me, knowing that someone from my world would be able to help them get in touch with me. A week later, AJ came back with more of her friends with her. They finished up with some foreign exchange business early and wanted to see me. First time I saw them use that new portal system that Twilight invented. They even gave me one of those crystal commutators to help find me and talk to me whenever they want to.”

“I have one as well,” replied Rara. “Applejack gave it to me so I can keep in touch with her. I think Coco has one to keep in touch with Rarity if she needs to.”

“Hopefully, everyone will be able to have one to use. But right now, it’s only limited.” Rick looked at Rara and said, “I’m just curious, but how did you get into music?”

“After my time with AJ at Camp Friendship, I knew I wanted to get into music. Once I got older, I performed at some local restaurants here in Manehattan. That’s when Svengallop noticed my talents and helped me get my first record deal. He got a staff to help me with my image and music, and was able to have them as my backup dancers. I was able to make it big time in under a year. But I make sure I also help out with other charities, which Svengallop tried to cancel at times. I just never knew that he was just using me to get all the perks in my life.”

“Well, he got what was coming to him for what he did,” Rick replied. “Now he’s out of a career, and all of his clients work under Sapphire Shores.”

“True. But I wonder what happen to his staff. I hope they were able to find new jobs to work on,” said Rara.

“Maybe Sapphire Shores hired them as well to help out her clients,” said Rick.

“I hope so,” replied Rara. She started to feel tired. “Well, I think I’m going to get some sleep. Have to stop by Sapphire’s office tomorrow. You going to join me?”

Rick was surprised at what he heard. “In your bed?”

“Yes. There’s nowhere else to sleep on expect for my bed, and…” She started to look down for a moment. “Well, we are a couple anyway.”

“You still want to go through with this?” Rick asked Rara.

“Well, AJ did say we should give it a shot, and Rarity did tell me that you’ve been having a hard time with finding a mate.”

Rick face-palmed and said to himself, “Really Rarity? You just not going to give up are you.” He let out a sigh and looked at Rara. He could see the beauty in her, and it was something he hasn’t seen in anyone, human or pony. ‘Every risk has its reward,’ he thought. “Sure. I mean, I may never get another chance to fall in love with a pony in my life.”

Both of them giggled, then started to make their way to bed. As they laid down and pulled up the covers, Rara leaned over and gave a peck on Rick’s cheek.

Rick looked at her and asked, “What was that for?”

“I don’t know. I just thought that it was the right thing to do. You don’t like it?”

“No, no. It’s OK. I just didn’t expect it so soon,” Rick replied. “Night…sweetheart.”

Rara let out a small giggle. “Night.”

I Got A Fever...

It’s been two weeks since Rick and Rara have been living together, and while they have gotten used to living together, it has had its ups and downs. For Rick, it was having to live without meat based foods, and he wasn’t a fan of hay. But he was lucky to have peanut butter sandwiches and grilled cheese sandwiches. As for Rara, it was trying to understand the human world’s tech, like Rick’s laptop. She wasn’t used to working with the music program that Rick had install, or more of the programs like iTunes and such.

But for some reason, it has helped them open up to each other. They already had five songs made, but still had a long way to go. And both of them were coming up to roadblocks on creating more music. Finding the inspiration to write was hard, and that bothered Rara… a lot.

“No, no, NO!” Rara was scratching out some lyrics that didn’t connect and just crunch it up into a paper ball and threw it in the trash bucket. “Why can I not think what I want to write?”

Rick was working on possible music to add to their completed fifth song, but kept getting distracted by Rara’s problems. “Rara, we’re about halfway with a new album. I’m sure you can find inspiration somewhere.”

“I’ve tried, but I’m running out of ideas. It’s… it’s stressing me out.”

Rick decided to close his laptop. “That’s it. We’re taking a break from this.” He got up and got out his GameCube unit with the portable screen and a couple of controllers from a box that he used to keep his gaming stuff in. He plugged it in and placed the unit on a table in front of the couch. He patted on the couch and said, “Get over here.”

Rara just gave her a serious look. “Really? Do we even have time for that?”

“There comes a time when you need to relax and enjoy life at its fullest. And this is one way of doing so.”

Rara just sighed, got up, and went on over to where he wanted her to be on the couch. Rick went back to the box and grabbed one of the games for the unit.

“We’re going to play some Mario Kart?”

“Mario Kart?” Rara replied, looking confused.

“Yea. Been one of the popular multi-player racing games back in my world.” Rick placed the game disc into the unit and booted it up, then grabbed the controllers and sat down next to Rara. He handed one of the controllers to Rara.

“I don’t even know how to play something like this,” she replied.

“Here, I’ll show you.”

Rick instructed Rara to sit on his lap. Once she did so, he rapped his arms around her and held the controller with her while looking over her shoulder. Rara started to blush with how he was holding her.

“OK. The A button is the gas, and the B button is the brakes. Joystick lets you turn, and the L and R buttons let you drift turn. X and Y buttons are for the held items, and the Z button allows you to switch your driver and partner. Got it?”

Rara still felt confused. “I think so?”

“Don’t worry. We’ll use a simple test track until you get the hang of it.”

Rick started to show Rara how to play the game, explaining how some of the items work and how to control the kart. After a few runs, Rara got off his lap and sat next to him, exchanging controllers so that he was player one.

“So, you going to go easy on me, right?” Rara asked.

“On the first few races.”

So Rick and Rara spent their time playing the game. They didn’t know it, but they were on it for a couple of hours, which felt like time flew right by them. It was then that Rick tossed his controller on the table.

“I can’t believe it. That’s the 12th time you beat me.”

“I thought you were still going easy on me,” Rara replied.

“Only the first four races. Then I started to get serious when we went through those tracks again.”

“And I still won on those tracks and the next four on the next level, which I though was more challenging.”

“And then we went with the harder levels, and you still beat me. You even blasted me with a couple of blue shells that time.”

Rara stared to stare at Rick and said, “Maybe I was lucky.”

Rick stared back at her. “Maybe you were just a natural in this.”

Both of them were staring at each other before they both started to smile and let out a laugh. After all that happened, Rara started to lay back and lean on Rick’s shoulder.

She let out a sigh and said, “Maybe you were right. I needed a break from what I was doing. Think we can do this again another day, maybe with another game you have?”

“If that’s the case, then we might try out either F-Zero or Super Smash Bros. Maybe one of the Mario Party games I have. I did bring several games with me.”

“Really. Is that all you like to do?”

Rick let out a sigh and said, “Only because my chances on getting my music career off the ground failed. I just stick to my regular job and spent my nights and weekends trying to relax. I didn’t have anyone to hang out with long term, and everyone I knew at my old job had families to take care of.”

“Is that why you have a hard time out there? You know, trying to fit in. Maybe finding a girlfriend to spend your nights and weekends with instead of being alone?”

“Been the story of my life,” Rick replied.

Silence filled the room. Rara was still leaning on Rick’s shoulder and started to rub her other hand on his arm. He caught on and started to look at her, which she soon noticed when she glanced at him. As they both stared at each other, Rick started to close the distance between each other. She closed her eyes as his lips were close to hers.

But that silence was disturbed by a knock at the door.

“Rick. Rara. You both there?”

Both of them knew who was at the door. Rara opened her eyes and let out a sigh. “Damn it, Prance. You sure know went to ruin the moment,” she thought. She yelled, “Coming,” and got up off the couch and went to the door.

When she opened the door, she was met by Prance and another stallion. He had yellow fur and blue greased up hair, and was wearing a white button up shirt with the sleeves rolled up, a cream vest, and white pants.

“Well this is a surprise,” Rara said. “I thought you were with another artist on tour.”

“Just finished up a few days ago,” the yellow stallion replied. “Just catching up with Prance and heard about you as well.”

“Well come on in.” And they came in, Rara turned and said, “Rick, this was my lyricist and one of the dancers I worked with, Disco Fever.”

Rick got up off the couch and approach Disco. “It’s nice to meet you.”

“Same here,” Disco replied as they shook hands. “Been hearing that you’ve been working with Coloratura with her career.”

“You could say that,” Rick replied.

Disco looked around the room and saw the pieces of crumpled paper around the trash bucket. He walked over there and picked up one of the balls of paper and straighten it out. He looked it over and said, “Looks like you’re having problems with new music?”

“We’re already half way through one possible album, but… well you can see the reason why,” Rara replied.

“Care if I take a crack at it?” Disco asked.

Rick and Rara replied, “Be our guest.”

Disco Fever took some of the papers and looked them over. While he was doing this, Rara decided to explain Rick what he was doing.

“What he’s doing is looking over what I wrote and get an idea of what song I’m trying to sing. Then he tries to help fill the gaps that I need to make the song work. He can also fine tune how the song sounds to make it better. It’s like he has the rhythm and beat going through his head. He’s help me improve some of the songs that I performed in the past, but Svengallop never gives him any credit.”

“Like that guy even cares. No doubt he didn’t want to complain or he would lose his job in the process,” Rick said.

“I just told him to just go along, and just let it all play out,” Prance said. “We all knew that bad karma would strike him when he least expect it.”

Disco finished what he was doing and handed a sheet of paper to Rara. “What do you think?”

Rick, Rara, and Prance looked it over before they gave their answer.

“I think this will work. Thanks,” Rara replied.

“Well, I’ll have a better idea when I hear some music to go with it. But we don’t have to go through that right now,” Disco explained.

“Well, I’m still working on the music on the last one,” Rick said as he pointed to his laptop.

Disco looked at it and said, “So this is one of those advance human machines that I’ve been hearing about. But it can’t beat the machines that we have at the studio.”

“If it’s like the stuff that was around in my world decades ago, then I’m sure it will work,” Rick said. “I’m just working on the template for now. Be better once we have a band.”

“So I heard,” Disco replied as he took a seat next to the table. The others decided to do the same.

“I’ve been telling him about what’s been going on and getting updates on the rest of the crew,” Prance explained.

“Then you know some of the changes that we’re making with our usual music that I used to perform,” Rara explained. “Think you can help us out?”

“Well, if you don’t mind having another lead guitar in the group.” Disco looked a Rick’s acoustic guitar. “Been itching to play it again. May I?” Disco asked Rick.

“By all means.”

Disco got up and went over to the guitar. He grabbed it and checked to how Rick had it tuned. Then he started to play a song. It sounded like a Mexican dance song that he was playing.

“Now that’s a bit new from you,” Rara said.

“Something I heard when I was at Appleloosa with the group. It sounded kinda catchy,” Disco said.

“Sounds like you’ve been doing fine with the artist that they assigned you to,” Rara said.

“Well, I have been trying to… stay alive,” Disco said, which Rick tried to contain his laughter. “Figure someone would get the reference.”

Rara and Prance looked to Rick for an explanation.

“It’s a movie called Saturday Night Fever. Came out before my time. One of the songs that played in the move was Stayin’ Alive by the Bee Gees. And Disco Fever almost looks like the main character in that movie. The song is still popular in my world to this day.”

“I know,” Disco said. “Met one of the humans that was visiting our world, and he brought up the reference. Even had that song on a small device that he was carrying.”

“Could have been an iPod, or something close to it,” Rick said. “It’s like my machine, but smaller and only has music on it.”

“Well, your world has some interesting stuff that we have yet to achieve. Yet, we have magic that you don’t have,” Disco said.

“Which is why my friend, Applejack, and her friends are working on bringing both worlds together,” Rara explained. “But we’re getting off topic. You think you can help out?”

“Well, I was able to reach out to the others, and they are willing to help you two out. Night Shades already returned a week ago and is trying to get some rest from all the traveling. Or should I say flirting.” Disco let out a small chuckle. “But he can help out on keyboards. Rock Blast and Beat Box should be back from their tours next week, so that should cover Bass and Drums. Might be a couple of weeks before Star Dancer and Style Light return, but they are willing to lend their support. Star Dancer can back up one of us if needed, since he works on the stage while the team is setting up. And I’m sure Style Light can help Prance out at the studio and maybe on tour if that was to happen.”

“Sounds like all of us are getting back together, minus Svengallop,” Rara said.

“Well, I figure that we fill you in on all that,” Prance said as he got up. “Just let me know if you need to studio to work in, and I’ll see if I can free it up.”

“And you know where I live at if you two need my help,” Disco said, getting up and putting the guitar back to where it was located. “I would like to learn more about that machine of yours, Rick, and how you can make music from it.”

“Sure thing,” Rick replied.

“Just make sure you tell Night Shades to lay off the flirting. I hate to see him get slapped in the face… or worse,” Rara said.

“Too late for the worse part,” Disco said. “But I doubt he’ll learn from that.”

Both Disco and Prance left the room as Rara closed the door.

“Cool guy. He might just be able to help us out,” Rick said.

“If you like him, you’ll like the others when you meet them. Especially Beat Box. I think the two of you might have something in common,” Rara explained.

“I guess it involves drums,” Rick said, which Rara nodded. “Well, I was in percussion back in high school, so that might sound interesting.”

“Good,” Rara replied. “You know what? I feel a lot better after all that just happened. Playing that game was one thing. But seeing some old faces that are willing to help made it much better.”

“Well, I might as well get back to creating the music from the song that I was working on. Going to start another song?” Rick asked Rara.

“Not today. Might be best to make sure what we have is ready so that Disco and Prance can look it over before looking into our next song. Besides, it looks like Celestia is starting to set the sun, so I might as well start fixing dinner for us.”

“Really?”

“Well, I do own my husband a treat after what you did for me earlier. I’m sure a grilled cheese sandwich will do for tonight.”

Rara started to walk to the kitchen to fix dinner, while Rick went back to his laptop and work on some music. Rara took a moment to look at Rick and almost remembered that one moment between the two.

“Maybe one day, I can do something special for you, after all you have done for me.”

Author's Note

Could Rara be warming up to Rick? Who knows.

Video Blog #1

Rick and Rara finally returned from their music session for the day, already tired after working on the entire album. Rick went straight to his laptop with a small camcorder in hand, while Rara went and grabbed a change of clothes and went straight to the bathroom. Rick started to check on the camcorder, only to find that the batteries were dead.

“I guess Coco forgot to turn it off like I told her to.”

He went to take the rechargeable batteries out and placed them in the charger. Then he took out the memory card and inserted it into his laptop to find the video files and transfer them. As the transfer took place, Rara came out of the bathroom, fully changed.

“I’m going down to Coco’s room to chat for a while.”

“OK. It’s going to be a while before I finish editing this,” Rick replied. “I think Coco was still a bit new to this.”

“I’ll say,” Rara replied. “I’ve never seen a camera recorder that small and advance in this world.”

“Oh, we still have those old tools for movies. But they have evolved to some degree. Some still keep the old tools as a part of history in the film industry.”

“I would stay and listen, but I don’t want to distract you with your work.” With that, Rara made her way out of the room and went downstairs, leaving Rick to himself.

“Alright. Let’s see how well you did here.”

The video opens to Rick’s face.

“OK. You understand how this works, right?”

“I think so,” Coco said from off view.

“Hey. Those replacement drum heads came in. Think you can help?”

Rick looks away for a moment. “Yea. Coming.” He walks away from view.

The scene starts to move.

“OK. My name is Coco Pommel. And I’ll be taping the, what’s he called it… oh, behind the scenes tour of Rick and Rara. They’ll going to be recording their first album in this studio, which Rick says that it’s a bit old from his world. I’m sure you humans would understand.”

The scene moves into the studio and up to where there’s a stallion with orange fur and a blue-green bowl cut hair behind the keyboard. He was wearing a white shirt, black pants, and a black vest with a patch of purple shades, which he was also wearing. Another stallion was working on the other side of the keyboard, connection cables. He had mint green fur and a purple small mo hawk, and was wearing a worn out white t-shirt and blue jeans.

“Now here we have our keyboard player, Night Shades, and our tech expert, Star Dancer.”

“Well, hello there,” Night Shades said with what sounded like a British accent, lowing his shades so he could gaze into the camera. “Just so you know, I am single and ready to mingle.” He winks.

“Don’t listen to him,” Star Dancer said as the scene turns to him. “Every time he tries to flirt, he gets punched in the face by the mare’s coltfriend.”

“That was just that one time, Star. That one time.”

“I recall it being more than that.”

“Shut up, Disco,” Night Shades replied.

“Let’s move on.” The scene moves to the drum set, where Rick is working with a stallion with lavender fur and a black buzz cut. He was wearing a black tank top and blue jeans with holes in the knees. “This is our drummer, Beat Box.”

“What’s up,” Beat Box replied. “Nice to be back with the group again.” Both of them are working on one of the tom-tom drums.

“May I ask what you are doing?”

“Replacing the old drum heads with some new ones,” Beat Box explained. “Haven’t played them in quite some time.”

“There were cracks in some of the heads, so they needed to be replaced,” Rick added.

“You must have done this before, haven’t you?”

“Back in high school and college, I played bass drum in marching band,” Rick explained. “I played the bigger bass drums, and helped out in tuning and replacing the heads when our percussion instructor brought new one to have them replaced. I learned how to tune this kind of stuff before I put my focus on guitar.”

“No guitar in marching band?” Beat Box asked.

“Guitars were used for small bands like this group. You couldn’t hear them out on a big field.”

“Might have to see them one day.”

“You should see the winter drum line competitions. That’s where the real energy comes from. But it’s been decades since I was a part of them, so there’s no telling what’s changed.”

The scene then moves over to two stallions, each on guitar. One was Disco Fever, who had a slick, black guitar. The other had pink fur and slick pink hair, and was wearing a blue button-up shirt and black jeans. He was tuning his wooden bass guitar.

“And this is Rock Blast on bass, and Disco Fever on lead. Disco also works on the lyrics for the album.”

“Nice to be playing once again, doesn’t it Rocky,” Disco Fever said.

“Better than ever,” Rock Blast replied. “Been dying to play this baby once again.”

“Is everyone ready to play?”

The scene quickly turns around back to the entrance to the studio room where Rara just came in, wearing her signature countess outfit like before, along with Applejack next to her.

“Just about,” Disco Fever said off screen.

“AJ. Didn’t expect to see you here,” Rick said off screen.

“Visiting my Aunt and Uncle Orange for a few days. Figure I make a visit and see how the album is coming on.” She looks straight into the screen. “What in tarnation is that?”

“It’s Rick’s camcorder. He wants to do a… What’s it called?”

“A video blog.” Rick replied off screen.

“A video blog?” Applejack replied. “Something to display in the human world?”

“Yep,” Rick replied off screen.

A voice came on the speakers. “If we’re about ready, I want to do a sound test before we begin.”

The scene moves towards the door, with Applejack and Star Dancer already walking through it first. The scene moves into a sound booth where Prance and another stallion with blue fur and purple spiked hair, wearing a purple t-shirt and blue jeans.

“And this is the last of the staff. Prance, who is in charge of the band, and Style Lights, who also works on some of the tech and makeup work.”

“Um, hi there.” Style Lights nervously smiles and waves on the screen. “It’s been a while since I’ve done this, so I’m getting a refresher with Prance’s help.”

“Since the group is about to record, I need to stop recording so that we don’t spoil anything about the new album. I think it’s… um, where do i-”

“I think I know where it is,” Star Dancer said off screen before the scene starts to shakes and is then cut off.

“Glad that you could help, Star.”

Rick went on the next clip that was listed.

“I think this was when we took a break for lunch.”

The scene opens with the band and guest in the break room having lunch. Rick is at the stove cooking a grill cheese sandwich. Rara and Applejack are leaning on the counter eating their own sandwiches. Rock Blast, Star Dancer, Beat Box, and Night Shades are sitting around the table having their lunch, with Night Shades reading a magazine. Style Lights is next to the wall with a putter in his hands, playing some putt-putt golf.

“Alright. We’re taking a lunch break so that Disco and Prance work on what’s been done while we refresh ourselves.”

“And so far, we have made good progress,” Style Lights added.

“Good? We’re doing better than before,” Rock Blast corrected before leaning back in the chair. “This is what we should have been doing all this time.”

“I’ll say this. You sure know how to make some real music,” Applejack explained. “Not that flashy stuff that I first saw when you came to town.”

“Hey Rick. I hear that there are different kinds of music in your world,” Star Dancer said. “Did they have anything flashy there?”

“Depends of the era,” Rick replied, glancing back at the guys for a moment. “If you look into the late 1970s and the 1980s, they would have that kind to add to their music. Mostly with the keyboard, which is right up your alley, Night Shades.”

Nights Shades looks up and towards Rick.

Rick continued. “The electric keyboard was started to be new to the music world, with the arrange of sounds that it could create. And the most popular group would be Electric Light Orchestra, which you could hear it in their music. They were even able to have their music in the movie, Xanadu, which is a cult classic in my world.”

“Xanadu sounds like a magical name to have,” Applejack said.

“Well, that’s because the story was magical,” Rick explained. “Takes places in the early 80s where the only way to get your music noticed would be from the cover art of each vinyl record that was sold. And people would like to spend their summers near the beach on roller skates. But the story focuses on on a designer artist and his encounter with a lady muse from another place, who wants to make his dreams come true. It’s a really interesting movie, that’s for sure.”

“If it’s more of a love story, then I don’t mind,” Rock Blast said. “But I wouldn’t mind a bit of action, that’s for sure.”

Rick turned off the stove and took his grilled cheese sandwich and placed it on a place.

“If that’s the case, then allow me to throw a curve ball at you. The Adventures of Buckaroo Banzai. He’s a special scientist, test pilot, and rock star all in one. And his band mates also help him out with his work. They make a device that can allow anyone to cross other realms. But it gains the attention of alien outsides that have to be stopped. To have a group of scientist who also plays as a rock band would be interesting, don’t you think?”

“Now that would be something that I have to watch,” Rock Blast said.

“You might as well start making a list of movies for us to watch when we start going on tour in your world,” Beat Box said. “If we do have a tour there.”

“I’m sure that could happen months from now. I was told that one of those music groups from the human world is working with Sapphire Shores to help produce this world’s music to be sold in that world. If sales go well over there, they would work on a U. S. tour layout sometime next year.”

“Really?” Rick said. “They have to take in which buildings to host the shows. We have a few locations in Nashville that can host concerts. One holds an outdoor sports team, which is rarely used unless it’s a huge crowd. Another is used for indoor sports teams and concerts, which would be common, but I don’t think we would need that many seats for our shows. The one location I could think of would be more for music events, which is The Ryman Auditorium. It would have to be places like that one to perform at. Not too big, but not too small. Something in the hundreds. The other places would be in the thousands, which we might not have the fan base to start with.”

Applejack looked over to Rick. “The Ryman. Was that the big red building next to Legends Corner?”

“That’s the one,” Rick said. “The big building across the corner is the arena that holds thousands, which is where the big acts perform. I just don’t think we would be needing something that big to perform, that’s for sure. So the Ryman would be more suited for us, if we have a U. S. tour.

“Well, if there’s a tour in the works over there, then I hope we all get to see the sites in the process,” Style Lights said. “I want to see what your world has to offer.”

“Including the ladies,” Night Shades added.

“Good luck trying,” Rara said. “If you can’t hit it off with a mare here, then I doubt you have any luck in the human world.”

Everyone laughs before the scene ends.

“Going to have to teach Night Shades about the ladies in our world. Don’t want to damage relations in the process.”

Rick started decided to go to the last clip that was filmed.

The scene opens with Rara on the screen inside the studio room. Applejack could been seen at the edge of the screen, while others are busy putting away their instruments in the background.

“Alright. This is Rara speaking. My real name is Coloratura, but Rara has become easier to go with. We just finished recording our album, which we won’t reveal any details at the time. We had to redo one of the songs that we recorded earlier today that somehow didn’t sound right with the stallions in the booth. But we feel that this will be an album that you all will enjoy.

“Now we did talk about a tour in the human world. Most likely in the U. S., which is for Rick’s benefit. But we do plan to start a… revival tour in Equestria, which would be a starting point for us. But it will be a few months before that happens, and we want to get some feedback from the human world about our music before we start exploring those options.

“So…” Rara clasped her hands. “I… guess that’s it for now. I know this is our first video that Rick plans to upload when he gets the chance. And I thank you for watching. Bye.”

The scene shakes before it goes black.

“That was quick.” But Rick noticed that there was more to this clip. And it was all in black.

“Is it off?” Rara asked.

“I think so this time,” Coco replied.

“Good. Can I talk to you girls for a moment?”

There was a sound of three ponies walking until a sound of the door was shut. “This must have been when they walked out while we were putting the gear away,” Rick thought.

“OK Rara. What you want to talk about?” Applejack asked.

“It’s… Rick.”

“Nothing wrong between you two?” Applejack asked.

“Oh no. It’s been fine,” Rara replied. “It’s just… I don’t know how to explain it.

“Explain what?” Coco said.

“You not in heat, are you?” Applejack said.

“If she was, Prance would have caught on to it before anyone else,” Coco explained.

“And how would he know?” Applejack asked.

“He would let her and Sapphire Shores know so that proper action is taken care of,” Coco explained. “He’s a unicorn and can catch on to it before it goes into full gear.”

“Girls! Will you let me explain!” Rara said. “It’s… about us. I mean, I like him… a lot. But it’s just that… we’re different species. He’s human. I’m equestrian. I just… don’t know how to… really come up to him about my feelings for him. I mean, yes, we have been leaving together for quite some time. And there have been moments where… I felt this spark between us. But something keeps interrupting us in the process.”

“Like that time Prance and Disco showed up at your home?” Coco said.

“Yes. That was one of those times. The reason is that… I don’t even know what moves to make without screwing up. What if our mating cultures are different than theirs. What if I do something that he dislikes. What if-”

“Now hold on there,” Applejack said. “If that’s your problem, then let me tell you something that Twilight told me in case this came up. Just be yourself. Be up front and honest. I know Rick is new to this world. But he’s one who’s willing to understand our world the same way we’re trying to understand his. So if you’re ready to confess your true feelings about him, then just say it. That’s all you have to do.”

“OK. I understand,” Rara replied.

Rick stopped the clip. “So that’s why she’s been acting that way.” Rick got up and walked to get his coat. That was when Rara came back from downstairs.

“Everything OK?”

“Yea. Just… going out for a walk. Want me to get anything while I’m out?”

“Can’t think of anything. Are you sure you’re OK?”

“I am. Just need to get own on my own for a while. I should be back in an hour.”

“Alright. Don’t be out too long.”

Rick left the room and made his way downstairs and out of the building. As he started his walk, he started to think about what Rara just said in the clip.

“I should have known that she would have those feelings for me. Because I’ve been feeling the same about her. And I still don’t know about the differences between both our worlds, so I really don’t want to screw this up. Maybe I should talk to Applejack while she’s still in Manehattan.”

Rick was able to learn where Applejack’s aunt and uncle was living at and made his way to the located building. Once he went inside, he was able to find the room that Applejack was staying and knocked the door, only to be met by Aunt Orange. She was quick to catch on and knew that he was here to see Applejack. Once she came to the door, she stepped out and closed the door so that they could talk outside of the room.

“So what brings you here?” Applejack said to Rick.

“It’s Rara.”

Applejack had a feeling she was about to go through the same thing again.

“I was able to hear what you, Rara, and Coco were talking about after we finished recording.”

“Did Coco forget to turn off that device?”

Rick nodded. “It was able to catch what you three were talking about.”

“And?”

“And… she’s not the only one in this state.”

Applejack raised an eyebrow. “Say again.”

“Not only does she have feelings for me, but I also have feelings for her.”

“And let me guess. You don’t know how to confront her about it, right?”

Rick nodded.

“And it’s because she’s a pony, and you’re a human, right?”

Again, Rick nodded.

Applejack sighed and shook her head. “No doubt Twilight knew this was going to happen.” She looked at Rick and said, “Alright. Twilight is still new in learning about… inter-species relationships. The best that to do is just be yourself and just go with it. If you like her, and she likes you, I’m sure you can work it out. Sure you going to be learning new things with each other. But that’s what we all do in life, right? So, just tell you how you feel about her, and I’m sure everything will be alright.”

“If that’s the case, cane you ask me one detail.”

“Shoot.”

“What happens when you go into heat?”

Applejack covered her face, saying, “Can’t believe I had to ask if she was in heat.” She removed her hand from her face and looked at Rick. “When a mare goes into heat, it means they want to… mate.”

“As in… what a married couple would do to have children,” Rick said.

Applejack blinked for a moment. “Wow. You catch on real quick. The only thing to worry about is that mares could get very physical around stallions. Plus, we do emit a… certain smell.” This got Rick worried. “But it’s nothing for you to worry about. Only stallions can pick up on this scent, but Prance and Coco already have this covered for later on. So we can leave it to them to deal with this issue… if it comes up.”

“What if she was to just… rub her nose on my cheek while we’re asleep?” Rick asked.

“Now that’s just a sign of affection. That’s all.” Applejack raised an eyebrow. “She’s already done that in bed, right?” Rick nodded. Applejack rolled her eyes. “Should have seen that one coming. I think that should be proof enough that she really likes you. All you need to do is be up front with her, and I’m sure she would do the same.”

Rick started to feel a sigh of relief. “Thanks.”

“No problem. Now you get back there and make it work with her, ya hear.” Applejack gave a light punch on Rick’s arm, causing him to flinch. “Sorry. Forgot that we can be a bit stronger than humans.”

“You don’t have to remind me,” Rick said, pointing to his nose.

Rick made his way back home so that he could confront Rara and tell her how he felt for her. But by the time he went into their room, he already saw her on his laptop looking at the videos. When he closed the door, it got Rara’s attention.

“Rick! You’re… back. Did you have a… good walk?”

“I… did,” Rick replied, scratching the back of his head. “Were you… looking at the videos from earlier?”

“I was. And it was… well…” Rara was trying to find the words, but had to come out with the truth. “I guess you heard about what I was discussing with AJ in private.”

“I did. And I guess we are having the same problem with us.”

“Yes. About that. I-” She stopped for a moment. “Wait. Did you say… we?”

Rick nodded. “Yes. You’re not the only one who’s trying to understand about having a relationship with the other species and going to AJ for help. I mean, I also have feelings for you as well. We work together on music, cook, play games. Find ways to enjoy each other. It’s just… I’m one of those guys who has a hard time trying to find out where that spark is between someone. Romance hasn’t been one of my strong suits.”

Rara giggled. “That would make two of us.”

“So… how do you feel about taking this couple thing to the next level?”

Rara went up to Rick and placed her arms around his next. “Is that what they say in your world?”

“Is it working?”

A smile came across her face. “Kinda. But I’m ready if you are. Just one step at a time. I’m sure we don’t want to rush it so fast.”

“That makes two of us,” Rick responded with a smile.

“Oh, I hope you didn’t get into the ‘heat’ discussion with AJ, did you.”

Rick looked away for a moment. “Maybe. But she said that it’s nothing to worry about.”

“Good. Because she has been worried that her little sister will enter that phase soon. I keep telling her that she’s got a long way before that would happen, but she never listens. So, what do we do next?”

“Well, I do plan to head back to my world and take care of extending the rent back home. Turns out that it’s going to take longer to get our new home built over there. And I want you to come along with me. Get a chance to see more of my world. Plus, I need to get upload those videos, once edited, for the world to see.”

“Just as soon as you delete the last part. I don’t want anyone knowing about what just happened, alright?”

“I’ll get on it tomorrow.”

“Good.” Rara let go of Rick and started to make her way to the bathroom. “I’m going to get a shower. Care to… join me?” She looked back and gave him a wink.

This almost got Rick a bit red on the cheeks. “You’re not going to punch me in the face again, are you?”

“That was an accident. Bad reflex, OK? This time, it’s for real.”

Rick ran up to Rara. “Well, at least we get to save on the water bill for once.”

Rara laughed. “You have a bad way of making an excuse for something. But I’ll let it slide for now.”

Both of them made their way to the bathroom, closing the door behind them.

Author's Note

Sorry if it's been almost a year since I wrote a new chapter on this story. If you've been reading my blogs, then you could understand what's been going on with my life. I'm taking this time to get back on my stories, including this one, since most of my work is Equestria Girls based.

I did this when someone brought it up in a Human in Equestria board and started something new from my usual works. Now it's time to get back to work on it.

A Complex World

In an area near the Union Station Hotel in Nashville, a round, stone-like portal attached to one of the train tracks came to life, allowing a crystal-like trolley to appear from the portal and stopping in front of the covered parking lot. The location was but one of many templates used to bridge Earth and Equestria, and it became a perfect location to create a bridge between downtown Nashville and Equestria’s central hub, Canterlot.

The hotel was once a local train station ages ago before it was redeveloped into a hotel in the 1990s. The train shed that was once nearby fell apart due to age before being used as a parking lot several years ago. When selection process was being made for portals, this became one of them. And in quick time, equestrian ponies were able to come here on special visas to see the sites and sounds that “music city” had to offer.

As the crystal trolley came to a complete stop, humans and ponies were walking out and making their way around the parking lot. Two of them were Rick and Rara. Rick planned to make a stop back at his own apartment home in Franklin to take care of a few things, as well as upload some videos from his laptop, which he was able to bring with him. And he figure that showing Rara a bit of his home state would be nice for them.

“I was surprised to learn that this hotel was once a train station,” Rara said, pointing to the building nearby.

“Yea. Back before my time, trains were used for travel, while flight was still trying to get off the ground. Now, they used trains to transport supplies instead,” Rick explained. “It’s a good thing that they were able to revive this area for something like this. And I was able to leave my truck here in a special lot for those who would be living in Equestria long term.”

As they were walking through the parking lot, they made their way to the private parking area. Rick was able to show his special passport to the guy who was working on duty, who allowed him and Rara access to the area. He pointed to the silver Dodge truck that was parked near the wall, and both of them got in, started up the truck, and made their way out of the parking lot and downtown, heading south.

“This is your first time seeing outside the city,” Rick said to Rara.

“Yea. I only had some time looking around the city when we were having the contest. So I never got to see what was outside the area. Applejack was able to tell me a bit of what she saw on her trips here.”

“Well, you’re about to see it for the first time.”

As they finally made it to the interstate roads, the first thing that Rara saw was a small building that looked a bit fancy, and it had the words “Adventure Science Center” on it.

“What is that place?” Rara asked, pointing to the building in front of them.

“The Adventure Science Center? It’s like a science museum. It’s been there for a long time, and has grown in its process. You can learn about the human body, explore space and our solar system, learn about various experiments, and other things. Twilight said that she wanted to see the place, but she hasn’t found the time to make it happen.”

“Applejack did say that Princess Twilight Sparkle was always into various kinds of research.”

As they went down the road, Rara could see some of the buildings that were around her.

“So you have apartments in the area?”

“Well, you could say that the city has been growing in the process. There was even a bowling alley back then. But it was torn down and replaced by an apartment building. We even had a small mall around here that was quite different from most malls. It’s called One Hundred Oaks Mall. The first floor was composed of stores that were accessed outside, while the second floor was more indoors with small stores. But the second floor closed down at one time, then reopened more as an outlet mall, until most chain stores started to go out of business. That’s when it got hit again.”

“What happen to the mall?”

When they passed under some bridges, the old mall came into view from their left.

“Vanderbilt Medical was able to make an agreement and have the second floor as a medical plaza while maintain its outlet mall look on the outside. Has a bit of a new look, but still the same old feel. It also has grown, not to mention it has one of the biggest movie theaters in the mid-state.”

She could see was he meant by the theater, because it was decked out in neon lights, with cars packed in the parking lot.

“I know. It’s a lot to take in,” Rick said.

As the mall was leaving their view, Rara soon noticed to her right some modern buildings and a field.

“And what is that place over there?”

“That… is a high school,” Rick replied. “Or more likely, a religious high school. Father Ryan High.”

“Did you attend that school?”

“Nope. I graduated from a public high school.” They went under another bridge and saw a place like the other, but had a different look to it. “John Overton High. Home to the Bobcats.”

Rara had a confused look on her face. “Bobcats?”

“It’s our mascot. I graduated from there a couple of decades ago. Although, it has gone through its changes as of late.”

“What’s the difference between the two?”

“Well, public schools are funded by people who live in the area through taxes. I’m sure you would understand that.” Rara nodded. “Private schools are funded in a different way. But I’m not sure, since I never attended one. Some of them involve religion, or more towards educational value. It’s more complex from what I know. There’s even another school call Franklin Road Academy up on the hill where I attended. But it’s range is different from the other two. Most kids go to public schools, since that’s the easier route to go by.”

“Usually, schools where I come from were easier to work around,” Rara said. “But we only number in the hundreds to thousands. You number in the millions, right?”

“In the nation,” Rick replied. “Billions, or even trillions in the world.”

As they continued down the road, they were coming up to one of the signs that had “Brentwood” displayed on it.

“That’s where we plan to live on this world, right?” Rara asked.

“Yep. Some call it the “bible belt.” Maybe because of the churches that are around.”

“Why so many churches?”

“Because there are many religions in our world. Which is more complex than you might ever know. I mean, I’m surprised that your world doesn’t have a religious based system like ours. But maybe that would be a good thing for you.”

“I… guess I can understand.” Rara was worried for a moment about these religions that were brought up and wonder how it would affect her kind. But that was put in the back of her mind when she saw a simple building with a name that was all to familiar to her. “A skate center? As in roller skates?”

“Yep. Brentwood Skate Center. It’s been there for as long as I’ve lived. Lots of kids from school would get discount passes once a month to go there on one day. And it still holds up to its namesake.”

“I’ve been to roller skate places when I was a filly back home,” Rara said. “It’s… been a while, after what I’ve been through with my music and touring.”

“Well, I might have to take you there when we get a chance.”

“If there’s ever a break from touring.”

As they were getting closer to their destination, Rara started to notice the multiple buildings that were in front of her. “Is this Franklin?”

“If you mean downtown Franklin, not quite. We’re just about to enter the city limits of Franklin. What you are seeing is call Cool Springs. It’s not the city name, but the area… nickname that we like to call it. It’s full of stores, restaurants, and other places. There’s a bigger size mall that is more like the centerpiece of the area.”

“Must be a busy place to have all those cars in the parking lots.”

“If you mean the mall,” pointing to his right, “then it is. But if you are talking about the cars on the other side of the road,” pointing to his left,” then those are car lots.”

“Car lots?”

“Well. How do you think we get around this world?”

Rara soon realized what she was in and started to get an idea. “Oh, I see. They make the cars, send them to these car lots, and you get to buy them if you need one. Am I correct?”

“You’re catching on fast.”

“And what about those tall buildings up ahead.”

“A growing business area,” Rick replied. “Back then, it was just all farmland before they built the mall, followed by the buildings around it. But these past several years, it has become more of a growing city like Nashville. Companies want to have their offices placed here to do their business.”

“So, it wants to compete with Nashville?”

“Not really. More like Nashville is running out of room for big businesses. You could say that it’s one state competing with the other states. That’s my best guess.”

“Your world is really complex. More than my own.”

Rick let out a sigh. “There are times when it was easy living the simple life. You just let things follow their own course. So I don’t really think about all that’s going on. Just enjoy what’s out there. Besides, it won’t be long before we get to my place.”

As they passed all the buildings, they saw the off ramp that they needed to take and got off the interstate and onto one of the main roads. Rara finally got a better view of some of the store buildings, restaurants, and car lots that Rick explained earlier before making a turn on one of the side roads leading to some apartment condos. Rick saw the main office to the condos and pulled in to park his truck. As they got out of the truck, Rara became a bit more curious.

“So, where is downtown Franklin?”

“A bit farther down the main road that we were on,” Rick explained. “It’s more of a historical downtown city, so you would see older, simpler buildings around. I might show you the place if there’s time. But right now, I need to make sure my monthly payments are made to keep my room so that it can still hold my stuff until our new home is complete.”

They went into the main office and up to the front desk. Rick saw the bell and pressed it rapidly.

“All right, all right, I’m coming, I’m coming.” An old, white lady came out from the room behind her to meet the people, only to be surprised to see an old face. “Well I’ll be. Didn’t expect you to be coming by, Rick.” She went around the counter to give Rick a hug.

“It’s good to see you too, Martha. Just needed to take care of some business.”

Martha looked behind Rick and saw Rara behind him. “Is that on of those horse people I’ve been hearing about in the news?”

“It’s Equestrian, Martha. Meet my singing partner, Coloratura.”

“So this is the lady you got to sign on with when you won that contest?” Martha asked. “I must say, she sure is a beauty. For an… Equestrian.”

“It’s nice to meet you,” Rara said, extending her hand to shake Martha’s. “Rick’s been showing me the sights while on our way here.”

“Is that so,” Martha replied. She looked at Rick and said, “I guess you want to see Henry, right?”

“If he’s not busy.”

“He’s busy playing Wii bowling on that system you leaned to us while you were away.”

“Figure he would take advantage of it.”

Martha guided Rick and Rara over behind the office area and into the living room, where an old man was busy playing on a game system as if he was bowling. He just waved his arm in another bowling jester and didn’t get the end result that he wanted.

“Come on. Should be easy to get a strike,” the old man said.

“Henry, you need to keep the remote straight to get a better shot,” Rick said.

Henry looked over to see Rick and grew a smile. “Ha ha ha! Rick! It’s nice to see you again.” He went up to Rick and shook his hand. “So what brings you here?”

“Need to take care of some advance payments for the next few months,” Rick explained.

“Payments?” Henry said. “Is it that time again?”

“Just about,” Rick said.

“Well, I wouldn’t worry about that, since you already covered for the next three months,” Henry said, patting on Rick’s shoulder. “You already cut off most of the power in the room, with the exception of the fridge. Which reduced the cost that I had to make for that room alone. So, I figure that I give you an extra three months. I’m guessing that it’s taking longer for your own home to be ready.”

“That’s the long and short of it,” Rick replied.

“Honey. He didn’t come alone,” Martha said, referring to Rara in the room.

Henry looked over to see Rara in the room. “Oh. Is this who you’re working for in that other world?”

“If you mean my singing partner, then yes,” Rick said. “Henry, this is Coloratura, my partner from the contest.”

“It’s nice to meet you,” Rara said, shaking Henry’s hand.

“Coloratura. That’s a fancy name you have there,” Henry said.

“If you like, you can call me Rara. Most of my close friends call me that.”

“Rara. I like that name even better,” Henry said. “Please, take a seat. Both of you.”

“Would you like anything to drink?” Martha asked.

“Just some water,” Rick said.

“Same here,” Rara added.

Rick and Rara went to take a seat on the couch while Henry went over to turn off the game system, putting the controller next to it and taking a seat at the chair on the other side. Martha went over to the kitchen and came back with some glasses of water for each of them.

“So, I’m still covered for the next three months?” Rick asked.

“That’s right,” Henry said. “But I’m sure you want to get some items from your place to take with you.”

“Yea. Something to help pass the time until we get our tour started,” Rick said. “Plus, I need to upload some videos for our future fans.”

“Oh, did you get your album completed,” Martha asked.

“Just a week ago,” Rick answered. “And they already making plans for the Equestria tour, but nothing official as of yet. Not until they release the album. The American tour is in the works, from what I’ve been told. But that would be after the Equestria tour. It’s a lot going on, but it’s progress.”

“Then you’re finally fulfilling your dreams, right?” Martha asked.

“You could say that,” Rick replied. “I guess we have Applejack to thank for that.”

“She was a nice… lady, is it?”

“Mare,” Rick corrected Martha. “The term is mare.”

“Oh, forgive me,” Martha said. “I’m still trying to understand about your kind, Rara.”

“Oh, it’s no problem,” Rara replied. “I’m also learning about your kind as well… with Rick’s help.”

Martha noticed that Rara was blushing while holding Rick’s hand. “By any chance are you two… dating?”

“You… could say that,” Rick replied. “Why?”

“Oh my.”

Rick knew that whenever Martha said that, it was always something bad going on. Usually, it was something that was told in the media. And chances where that is was civil rights related.

Rick let go of Rara and leaned forward. “What have you been hearing now?”

Martha explained. “Well, it’s only word of mouth, but there have been some humans and Equestrians having more of a… personal relationship, in a sense. And some think it’s a sin.”

“Which is garbage,” Henry quickly responded.

“Let me guess. Same hate groups and religious cults,” Rick said, which the others nodded. Rick just shook his head in disgust. “Same story, new target.”

“Is that a problem here?” Rara asked.

“You could say that,” Rick replied.

“Our nation has been dealing with issues like these for a very long time,” Henry explained. “I’ve even dealt with them in this complex. And you know what I tell them, if they don’t like it, then either move out, or I can raise the rates to cover the court fees that would be coming. I’m not going to go into a civil rights lawsuit because someone doesn’t like their new neighbor based of their race, religion, or sexual preference. What they do is their business, and as long as they don’t have anything illegal and they pay their monthly rent, then I’m fine with them living here.”

“Must be a lot for you to deal with,” Rara said.

Henry simply laughed. “Well, what would you expect. I am the landlord here, and I want to do the best I can for the complex’s owner. Otherwise, I could be out of a job taking care of the place. But don’t you worry. Things will come out better than you know it. Just need to remain positive, that’s all.”

“Well, since you’re here, would you like to stay for dinner before you head on back?” Martha asked. “I already started to fix some roast in the slow cooker.”

Rick and Rara looked at each other before Rick could respond. “Anything with it?”

“Baby potatoes and baby carrots,” Martha replied. “I can fix some green beans if that helps Rara.”

“The roast can be soft and easy to tear apart,” Rick said to Rara. “And I’m sure the veggies will do fine if you don’t want the roast.”

Rara nodded. “That will be fine then.”

“Good,” Henry replied. “Why don’t you go on ahead and get what you need from your place, and when you get back, you can upload those videos and join us for dinner.”

“Sounds good.”

Rick and Rara left the office and drove on down to where his apartment was located. Once inside, it felt a bit cool. Rick was able to turn on the lights, since everything else was unplugged. It was the first time Rara was able to see more of Rick’s stuff.

Rara noticed the posters on the walls from movies, games, and music artists. Shelves that had CDs, DVDs, books, and video games. Electronics that she have only seen on her visits earlier before they met. There was even a machine that was like his laptop, but bigger, and maybe older, on a desk. She was looking over everything while Rick was gathering some items to take back.

“Surprised to see all the stuff that I have?” Rick said to Rara.

“Yea. I guess I’ll be seeing more of it when we have our American tour, once that is laid out.”

Rick went to one of his shelves and took out some DVDs and placed them in a portable case, then some CDs into another case. “Figure that we have something to keep us busy until our tours next year. I can use my laptop to play them. Should I bring some more games for the GameCube?”

“I guess.”

As he was looking through the select games, he started to get a feeling that something was wrong with Rara and had to ask. “You feeling OK?”

“Oh, yea. I’m fine. It’s just… do you think that you… me…”

Rick stopped what he was doing and went up to Rara. “We had this discussion before.”

“I know. But now… how do you think others would see us if they think it’s wrong.”

“Look. Even before I was born, there were just two main races, black and white. Whites were more in control than blacks, and blacks were busy trying to have full, equal rights. And back then, multi-racial relationships were taboo. But that changed over time. Now, that kind of fight has been focused on same sex marriages, which some think is a sin. In my mind, I think that there are people who are just stuck in the past with their own values that they don’t want to accept the changing times. And I think this is another moment in those changing times.”

“So, what do we do?”

Rick placed his hands on Rara’s shoulders. “We let fate take it’s course. Doesn’t matter what anyone else says about us. If we can make it work, then we make it work. And if they don’t like it, then that’s their problem, not ours.” He let her go and went back to packing.

Rara looked over the bookshelves and asked, “Can we bring some books along. Maybe more about this world?”

Rick looked over saw a few books that came to mind. “Sure. I have a few books that shows some of our history in images. Should be better to explain what you see in pictures. And if we have to, we can stop by the bookstore near the mall and pick some more up, if any interest you.”

“Thanks.”

Ending the Year on a Good Note

Just a couple of days after Hearth Warming Christmas, as Twilight Sparkle wanted to call it this year, the train arrived at the Manehattan station, which was only carrying three passengers, Rick, Rara, and Coco. Each of them were carrying a single suitcase and a bag with gifts that were exchanged during Twilight’s party. All three of them were bundled up as they walked through the snow filled city.

“I still can’t believe that you would let us watch Doctor Who as your Christmas show,” Coco said to Rick. “I mean, it does have a Hearth’s Warming theme. But how cane it be Christmas if there’s an invasion?”

“When Doctor Who started back up with the 9th Doctor for one season, they started the next season with the 10th Doctor and a Christmas episode and about every other season after that,” Rick explained. “It had a Christmas feel around, but it was still an adventure going on. At least it’s a better choice than Die Hard.”

“Die Hard,” Rara said, raising an eyebrow. “Who are you?”

Rick stopped and started at Rara.

“Oh. Let me rephrase that.” She then spoke in a harsher voice. “Who are you!?”

Rick replied in the same tone. “I don’t know!!!” Everyone quickly laughed. “Still, I think it’s a change of pace from the normal Christmas movies that most would come across. I’ll make sure I get the ones of the 11th Doctor for next year. Them we can really compare a Christmas Carol.”

“I’m going to have a hard time understanding your world when you start your tour next year,” Coco said.

“Get used to it,” Rick said. “We can’t even control our weather the way you do.”

“Just wished that we had a heads up that they had to unload a ton of snow on Ponyville around Hearth’s Warming,” Rara said. “The trains couldn’t travel until the snow was cleared.”

“And they had to make an emergency request to the Crystal Empire to get them cleared,” Rick added. “Never knew that they had the equipment to make it happen.”

“Still, I’m just curious. What was it that you two and Twilight were talking about in private,” Coco asked.

“Well…”

Twilight, Applejack, Rick, and Rara were in the main chamber where the crystal table that held the cutie map was located. Twilight was aware about some of the problems that were going on back in Rick’s world that involved her kind and spent weeks doing research about some of the history and culture, as well as getting news reports that were more than what she first heard.

“So, do you think it can still work between us,” Rara said, pointing between her and Rick.

“Hey, after what she told me, I think it will work,” Applejack replied, reassuring Rara.

“After doing what research that I can find, I fell that it’s more than just personal relationships between humans and Equestrians,” Twilight explained. “Understanding the races in your world is almost like the breeds in our world. And I don’t mean between unicorns, pegasus, and earth ponies, but also dragons, griffons, and other breeds. There seems to be a common trend of blaming outside forces that they think are unwanted in their world. They want to believe that they are right and everything else is wrong. So we need to reassure to them that we are just the same as them. We go through the same problems they do, deal with the same trials, and make the best effort to learn from our mistakes.”

“And yet, we keep repeating the same mistakes over and over again, not learning from them,” Rick added.

“That’s true. But maybe we can fix that,” Twilight explained. “I call it the human/pony project. Yes I know, it’s a cheesy name. But what it does is that it allows one human and one Equestrian pony to work together and share ideas that are similar to each other. Kind of like a culture exchange. But there will be some limitations in this, and it comes from your end, so it’s still in the planning stages. But I was able to ask some of my Canterlot friends to help with the project in getting it organized.”

“I also asked some of my family members from Appleloosa if they could help, and they said that they could help if needed,” Applejack added.

“I also got help from the Wonderbolts, and both the Changeling Empire and the Dragon Lands for the exchange,” Twilight also added. “But the one who I put in charge of the project wants a human partner to help her out.”

“Who is that?” Rick asked.

Twilight and Applejack looked at each other before answering. “MOON DANCER!”

Twilight explained. “She wants someone who is experienced in your world. From its culture, to its history, to its science, and even its religion, since that is all new to any of us. And he has to be really, really smart. But I don’t know where to find someone like that. And I’m sure that we have to deal with human jobs in your world, so it would be someone who has a lot of free time to do this. I’ll have to have access to background checks, if possible, to make that happen. Could even take months.”

“And this is when Twilight starts freaking out,” Applejack said.

“I’M NOT FREAKING OUT!!!”

Applejack just glared at Twilight while she looked like a crazy mess.

“OK, maybe I am. But how am I’m suppose to find someone to work with Moon Dancer on this?”

Rick started to think and had an idea. “What about someone who has more… common sense with the world?”

“What are you talk about?” Applejack asked.

“Well, it was by chance that we came across each other,” Rick said, pointing between him and Applejack. “Perhaps I can help out with this problem as well, after all you did to make it happen between us.”

Twilight was able to get her mane straighten out and regain her composer. “Who do you have in mind?”

“Someone who I know back home,” Rick said. “We were band friends in high school and college. Graduated different years, but we kept in touch at times. He helped me get a job where he worked at after college when my music chances with downhill back then. Just messaged him back when I went to get my rent paid and learned that he decided to go semi-retire back home. He’s been busy around the house, but he’s always been complaining about the problems in the world and wishing that he could do something about it. And I don’t blame him. He’s had a rough decade with the therapy that he goes through.”

“Physical?” Applejack said.

“Mental,” Rick corrected. “Had to deal with severe depression. But since he’s been out of a job, and couldn’t find a new job that would fit him right, with all the skill sets needed that he doesn’t have, his therapy sessions have been coming to an end. And I’ve been hoping that I could repay him for helping me find a steady job to work in back then.”

“Any useful talents that I should make note?” Twilight asked Rick.

“Always organized. He can be a total neat freak at times. But that was his best quality in him. He kept all of the company’s projects in order. Also a hard worker.”

“Maybe so, but would that be enough to help Moon Dancer out?” Twilight said.

“It might be best that the two of you talk in person and see what he would think,” Rick said. “And you might want to have someone who can help his stepmom out at the house, because I heard that she’s already retired, and he’s been spending most of his time with the house work for her.”

Twilight started to rub her chin. “I might know someone in Ponyville who could help in that department.”

“A new project,” Coco said. “I hope Twilight knows what she’s doing.”

“Twilight and her friends have a lot to do with maintaining relations between both worlds,” Rick said. “If this project works, and Moon Dancer can work well with my friend, then I think we can get by without any incident. But there is one thing we can do when we go to our American tour. Make sure they enjoy themselves and bring other together, no matter who we are or what we do.”

“Is that possible?” Coco asked.

“Well, artists do have that effect on their fans when they perform,” Rara explained.

They arrived back in their own building and went inside and towards they rooms. Rick and Rara wave to Coco as she went in her room before going upstairs and in their room. Locking the door behind them, they set their bags aside and relaxed. Rick went to the kitchen area to start fixing some hot chocolate, while Rara went up to the two foot tall Christmas tree and turned on the mini bubble lights that were with it. She just stood there and watched as the lights slowly heated the liquid until it started to bubble.

“You still love those lights, do you,” Rick said to Rara.

“It’s just… amazes me to see something so beautiful on here.” She turned her attention to Rick. “I never knew lights like these even exist.”

“Where, there were bigger ones that were used long ago. But they are harder to find, since they no longer use the traditional light bulb holders.” He handed her a cup of hot chocolate while holding one of his own. “Most people my age grew up to these lights every Christmas. But now, it’s just smaller lights.”

“Well, I did like how you gave them ornaments as gifts to the girls. A Start Trek spaceship for Twilight, a Hot Wheels car for Rainbow Dash, a Barbie doll for Rarity, a Tinkerbell fairy for Fluttershy, a Transformers figure for Pinkie Pie, a Star Wars figure for Starlight, a Lord of the Rings wizard for Spike, and a Lionel train for Applejack. I think that was all fitting for each of them.”

“Starlight had to do a double take when I told her about Darth Vader being a villain who soon redeem himself in the end. But I think she understood. And I’m surprised that you went with some of those small books for each of them from my world.”

“Well, after seeing some of them when we first went there, I asked Applejack what they like and looked into something that would relate to them. Give them an idea of the world that you’re from. I still like the Nashville Broadcasting book that you had with you. A lot of natural history that could be explained in pictures better, even if it’s old. It’s almost like how our world started off in the media age, with records and radios.”

“Well, in about a month, we’ll have more of a modern home to live in. And in two months, as the winter season comes to an end, our first tour begins.”

“That’s right. We start in Canterlot, then Ponyville. And it all ends in the Crystal Empire before it moves to your world.” Rara raised her cup and clanked it with Rick’s. “Too bad we would have to leave this place.”

“Not really,” Rick said. “Sapphire Shores was able to allow us, and Coco, to keep this place. You could call it a home away from home.”

“Really?”

Rick nodded. “Most artists have two homes. And since we are from two different worlds, having two homes would do just fine. Besides, it has become more peaceful around here. Even the view of the park is nice.”

Rara went up and kissed Rick on the cheek. “Looks like everything is finally looking up for us.”

“We still have a good ways to go Rara. All we have to do is just believe that it can happen, and it will.”

Author's Note

It might feel a bit short, but I wanted to do something that was holiday related, and give a hint to a spinoff to this story that I wanted to do for the new year.

The Artist Known As...

Celestia’s sun was shining through the window and onto Rick’s face. This woke Rick up from the bed. As he got up, he noticed that the other side of the bed was empty. Looking around, he couldn’t find Rara anywhere.

“I wonder if she already left?” Rick thought.

He got up and stretch his arms and rubbed the sleepiness from his eyes. He started to make his way to the bathroom, which the door was closed. When he open the door, he was in for a surprise. In the bathroom was Rara, still drying herself from the shower she took. Rara only had her towel covering the front of her body when she noticed Rick. Both of them just stared at each other form a moment, looking stunned.

That moment was shattered when Rara screamed and threw her right fist at Rick’s face, knocking him unconscious.

Rick started to hear a voice as he was coming to. “Rick. Rick. Can you hear me? Rick!” As he opened his eyes, his vision was a bit blurred, but was soon in focus. He could see the mare talking to him was none other than Coco herself.

He started to sit up, shaking his head. “Damn. What just happened?”

“You got knocked out after seeing Rara naked,” replied Coco.

“Naked?”

“Well, almost,” Coco corrected herself. “Earth ponies can be somewhat stronger than humans.”

“Thanks for the late update,” Rick said. “What are you doing here anyway?”

“I heard Rara scream and ran all the way up here to see if you two were alright,” Coco explained. “She’s a bit shaken up after she punched you in the face. At least you don’t have a broken nose.”

“I thought she already left to see Sapphire Shores,” Rick said. “Didn’t realized that she was in the bathroom.”

“Maybe it’s best to knock before entering next time. I’m sure she’s still getting used to being married to you.” Coco pulled Rick up and on his feet. “Well, I’m heading back to my room to finish up. You might as well talk to her and let her know you’re OK.”

Rick nodded and escorted Coco out of the room, closing the door. Rick made his way to the bathroom to see Rara sitting next to the tub with only her towel wrapped around her. She was stilled shaken from what just happened earlier.

“Everything OK,” Rick said, causing Rara to look at him.

“Yea. I’m just…a bit shaken up. You surprised me when you walked in.”

“Sorry. I guess I’m still getting used to us being together,” Rick replied, scratching the back of his head.

“Same here,” replied Rara. She got up and rushed to Rick, embracing him in a hug. “At least you’re OK.”

Rick responded by hugging her back, and rubbing her backside in a clam manner. This caused Rara to respond.

“Rick?”

“Yes.”

“Your rubbing my back.”

“You mean…”

Both of them realized that Rara’s towel fell to the floor when she went to hug him.

Rick started to look up and released Rara from their hug. “I’m going to see myself out.” As he was still looking up, he made his way to the door and was trying to grab the knob of the door.

“I’ll get the door.” Rara pushed Rick forward and closed the door herself. She leaned herself on the door trying to catch her breath from what just happen.

“Has anyone ever tell you that you’re soft and fuzzy,” Rick yelled from the other side of the door.

This caused Rara to blush a deep red in her cheeks.

Rick was by himself in the room talking to Applejack through his crystal communicator, explaining to her what just happened. Somehow, Applejack didn’t even care.

“So how much of her did you see,” asked Applejack.

“APPLEJACK!!!”

“I’m joking,” replied Applejack. “I would have expected sparks to fly between the two of you, but not this soon.”

“You’re not helping here,” said Rick.

“Come on. So you made one mistake early on. Big deal. You’re a married couple, remember. Just give her time to warm up to you. Then I’m sure you’ll see who she really is.”

“I hope so,” replied Rick.

“So where did she go off to?” asked Applejack.

“Off to see Sapphire Shores. We got a couple of songs ready and she wants to run them by with her.”

“Well, somehow she’s going to get a big surprise when she sees an old friend working over there.”

“Who?” Rick asked Applejack.

“Oh some fancy unicorn who toured with her. Said that he wanted to work with music, but the manager wouldn’t allow him to do so. Sapphire Shores introduced him to me and the girls a couple of days ago.”

Rara was in Sapphire Shores’ office, sitting across her desk. Sapphire was looking over the songs that Rara and Rick wrote.

“I’m impressed,” Sapphire said. “The two of you did this in one day?”

“Just about,” replied Rara. “Rick was able to help me adjust some of the work that I had, and we got those two ready to go.”

“Great. I knew you two would make a great pair,” Sapphire said with a smile.

Rara just glared at Sapphire. “You sure you didn’t set this up in the first place?”

“Nonsense, Coloratura. Now, I know we need more to do, and I have someone who can help the two of you out.” Sapphire pushed the button on her intercom that was on her desk. “Send him in.”

A unicorn walked into the room. He had violet fur and dark purple curly mane and tail, and he was wearing a purple leather jacket and leather pants.

“PRANCE!!!”

Rara jumped up and went to him, giving him a hug. She released him from her hug, saying, “It’s good to see you again.”

“And it’s nice to see you as well, Coloratura,” replied Prance.

“I figure you would be out of a job after what Svengallop did,” said Rara.

“Maybe so, but Sapphire was able to hire me and your backup dancers to help out,” Prance explained. “Those guys are busy helping with some of the other clients at this time.”

“That’s great,” replied Rara.

“Well, now that you two have reunited, I need to get some business done.” Sapphire handed the songs back to Rara. “Good luck to both of you.”

Rara and Prance were walking back to her place to introduce him to Rick. While they were walking, they took the time to catch up.

“It’s nice to have a familiar face to be working with,” said Rara. “After what Svengallop did during my career, I’m having to start over again.”

“Hey, Svengallop got what was coming to him. Just working on getting the sound configured for you was hard enough. Now I can work on creating music for other artists,” explained Prance.

“I would figure you try your luck in your own music career.”

“Maybe, but now’s not the time,” replied Prance. “I need my own band to do so, and that’s something I don’t have at the moment. Besides, I’m hearing that you have a human helping you out?”

Rara let out a fake laugh while scratching the back of her head. “Yea. It’s kind of a long story.”

“You don’t have to explain. Sapphire already told me the details,” said Prance.

“Even the fact that I’m married to him?”

“That too,” replied Prance. “But think about it as a good thing. Having someone in your life is worth cherishing. Remember that.”

“I’ll keep that in mind.”

They finally arrived at Rara’s apartment, and she noticed the window to her room was open.

Rara yelled, “HEY RICK!”

Rick stick out his head to see Rara with another pony.

Rara yelled to Rick, “You want to join us for lunch?”

“Sure,” replied Rick.

Rick closed the window, grabbed the room key, and made his way out to join Rara, making sure he locked the door on his way out. When he came outside, Rara introduce him to Prance and explained his role in Svengallop’s group. They walked to a simple sandwich shop that Rick can order something that he like from his world. All three of them had lunched and exchanged stories with each other.

“So I finished up with my sound check, and Svengallop comes back all red. Turns out that the hot tub was too hot for him, and he fell asleep in the process. I kept my composure and tell him that everything’s ready for the show. He just walked off, and I’m just laughing my rear off inside my head.”

“Sounds like he got was he deserved,” said Rick.

“Well, karma can be a bitch at times,” said Prance. “At least he finally got what he really deserved for all he’s done to us.”

“What happened to the dancers that were with us back then,” Rara asked Prance.

“Well, Disco Fever, is singing backup for one artist. Rock Blast is playing with another artist on bass guitar. Star Dancer and Style Light have been helping out with a mare group. Beat Box is with a dance group that Sapphire Shores knows. And Night Shades has been promoting various artists wherever he’s needed. All in all, everyone’s been doing fine.”

“It’s good to hear that everyone didn’t suffer from what Svengallop did to the group,” said Rick.

“Yea. I’m just glad that everyone is doing fine,” added Rara.

“So what’s your story, Prance. How did you get into all of this?” asked Rick.

“Started when I was younger. I was working as a sound technician at a local venue in Las Pegasus, The Shooting Star. It was a place where artists play to look for their big break. During that time, I was able to write songs that came in my head. I was hoping that I could perform once on the stage, but my father thought it was a waste of time, saying that stars rise and fall so fast. Mother wasn’t doing much to support any of us.

“One day, Svengallop showed up looking for an expert sound technician for his newest artist, Coloratura. At that time, I was the one with the most experience in the city because I’ve worked there the longest. Said that I would get more bits than where I was working at. I took the offer and started working with him. My job was to check the sound on stage and work on adding some flare to her voice. Over the time, I wanted to try out some songs that I wrote, but he said that I should just focus on my job. So I just did what he wanted done.”

“Why not quit and pursue your own career?” asked Rick.

“I needed the bits,” Prance replied. “Plus, I no longer had a place to stay. Mother started doing drugs, which killed her. Father got drunk and committed suicide. Had to sell the house to pay for their funerals.”

“Sorry to hear that. I guess Las Pegasus has its own dark side, doesn’t it,” said Rick.

“It does. But now I work for Sapphire Shores. Most of my songs that I wrote were used by other artists to get them back on their feet after what Svengallop did to them. Now I get to help you two out.”

“Well, we’ll have to introduce you to Coco Pommel soon,” said Rara.

“I believe I’ve met her before,” Prance replied. “She’s the cream mare that works at Rarity For You, right?”

“I believe so,” Rara replied. “She plans to join us when we start going on tour.”

“But first, we need to get an album going first,” explained Rick.

‘Then you might need some band members to help out,” explained Prance. “Let me see if we can get the gang back together. Most of them do play instruments, so we should be able to fill that void.”

“You do that, and we might be able to get Rara’s career on track once again,” said Rick.

“Rick, this isn’t my career we’re talking about,” Rara said and she reached out the grab Rick’s hand. “This is our career. And I wouldn’t have it any other way.”

Author's Note

You might know that Coloratura had six dancers, so I had to come up with names for them, since they didn't make any names in the mobile game.

Disco Fever - Lyricist
Beat Box - Breakdancer
Star Dancer - Choreographer
Night Shades - Hype Pony
Rock Blast - Rocker
Style Light - Stylist

And someone has named the other pony as Prance (unofficial) because the designer wanted to draw him after Prince. So I'm going with that.