Encounter at North Park

Dusk Melody then entered the building with a mid-blue earth pony stallion as his companion. “It wasn’t that bad,” Dusk said, “just a bit of rain.”

His companion replied, “That rain ruined a perfectly good painting!”

Wildfire bounced, “I hear Dusk! Who is that with him?”

Tempest called out, “I’m glad to know some pony’s parade was rained on!”

Airmail added, “It was published in the paper, Dusk. I’m not sure who it is Wily.”

Dusk moved his companion towards the herd’s table, and tried to keep his voice low, “Please don’t make a scene here, these are my friends.”

“Fine,” the other stallion responded, and then to the group, “I don’t read the papers, but fair enough.”

Caffeinated came up to the table and dropped off Dusk’s cup of Earl Grey tea, “Help yourself to the buffet. What is your friend drinking?”

“Thanks Stripes,” Dusk replied gratefully for the tea. “Hey guys, this is Brush Stroke. I met up with him in North Park.”

“I’ll have a coffee please, black,” Brush Stroke replied to the zebra. “Hello, and please call me Oils,” he said to the group at the table.

Caffeinated left to get the coffee. 'Now I remember that stallion. I just may need to have a chat with him later.' the barrista thought to himself, now that he knew where he recognised Brush Stroke from.

Serenity walked up to the table and placed a single plate of food in front of Mapper. Mapper fed both herself and Serenity from the plate.

Brush Stroke looked around the table, “You have some impressive friends, Dusk.”

Omega looked the pair over, “Hello Oils, been to open mic night before?”

“No,” responded Brush Stroke, “but Dusk here said it’d be fun though.”

Omega laughed, “Welcome to the insanity.”

“It isn’t that bad,” added Airmail. “Just organised chaos.”

Sunshine walked in and saw Omega wave a forehoof. He walked over and gave the stallion a deep kiss, “Food now!” He then marched off to the buffet table.

Brush Stroke watched and smiled, “Organised chaos I like. Sort of like my workshop.”

Wildfire spoke up, “Hey D, who’s your new friend, and where is Vocal?”

Omega chimed in, “Yeah, how did his gig go?”

Airmail nudged Wildfire and spoke of over the noise of so many ponies, “Recital, Trumpet, and Requiem just came in. They went straight to the buffet table.”

“Will Tinkerer and Belle be coming?” Wildfire asked.

“No,” answered Snowfall, “Belle is working tonight and Tinkerer is with her.”

Dusk gave a soft sigh, “It went well, Omega. Too well as it happens. He isn’t coming, ever.”

“I’ll let Buttercup know. She covers entertainment,” Airmail said and added, “So, by ever, did you two have a falling out?”

“You can say that Airmail,” answered Dusk, “Vocal decided that the tour was number one in his life, and old coltfriends need not apply.” He welcomed the hug from Brush Stroke.

The three newcomers sat at the table. Requiem spoke up, “Hi Dusk.” She studied the other stallion as she thought she knew him.

Dusk asked, “Are we all here that’s coming?”

Requiem answered, “All but my husband, Longshore. Go ahead and do intros. I can fill him in later.”

“Okay then, this is Brush Stroke, but he likes the name Oils,” Dusk led off. “And this mare is my close friend Wildfire, whom I told you about.”

“Pleased to meet all of you, and it is good to put a face to the name Wildfire,” stated Brush Stroke.

“Just call me Wily,” she smiled.

Requiem asked, “Oils, don’t you have a painting in City Hall?”

Brush Stroke was pleased to be recognised, “Yes, I do.”

Sunny chuckled, “Oh, we have another celebrity.”

Brush Stroke blushed, “A minor one, for now.”

“Dusk, when is your mom going to get here with your fiddle?” Requiem questioned.

“She should be here soon,” Dusk answered.

“Your mom’s coming?” Brush Stroke smiled, “It’ll be nice to meet her. You didn’t talk much about her earlier.”

“No,” Dusk swallowed, “no, I didn’t.”

“Dusk, would you be interested in doing a performance together?” asked Trumpet. “I was thinking Trotskovsky’s Marche.”

Dusk nodded, “Yeah, why not?”

Trumpet smiled, “Should be fun, that piece goes well with the violin and Prench horn.”

“Should be awesome mate.” Dusk looked to his friend, “Wily, you reading during the show?”

Wildfire bounced at the table, “Yes D! I have a couple of poems ready.”

Longshore arrived at the table with a plate full of food and received a kiss from Requiem. “Contracts are a pain in my tail,” stated the stallion.

“Ah, my poor baby,” Requiem said with another kiss. “You can lie down on the couch and I’ll talk to you until it is all better.” That comment received laughs from several ponies.

A flash of turquoise light near the coffee bar revealed Luna and Octavia. Both dressed in their Gala dresses. Octavia wore a bridle and carried her cello case on her back. Luna carried a violin case and held Octavia’s reins in her magic. The pair nodded to Caffeinated and approached the herd table.

The noise level in the room dropped drastically. The knowledge that Serenity would perform was common, but to have Lady Octavia perform brought this night to a whole new level. Many started calling friends to encourage them to join the party. Brush Stroke stuttered, “T-that’s P-p-princess Lu-Luna h-h-here!”

When the couple reached the table Dusk spoke up, “Hi mum, mom, thank you for bringing my violin.”

“Mom!” said a shocked Brush Stroke. He looked between the alicorn and earth pony, “She’s your mom and she’s your mum!”

Mapper laughed, “Good evening Mistress Luna, your son’s failure to talk about you is an understatement.” She gave Octavia a good look over. “You’ve brought your Pet! How sweet of you. Shall she be performing?”

Luna looked over Mapper and Serenity and sighed, “Tie?”

Mapper nodded, “Tie”

Dusk was perplexed, “Tie?”

Luna looked at her son, “My goal was to out dress Mistress Mapper tonight. I have a feeling a sneaky zebra may have warned her.” She turned to Octavia, “You may answer, Pet.”

Octavia kept her eyes to the floor, “Yes Mistress Mapper, I was allowed to bring my cello.”

“Mistress Mapper,” Luna stated which drew the mare’s attention back to her. “My present to you for tonight. For my Pet’s sake I do hope she pleases you.”

“Junior Pet!” Mapper spoke with authority.

Wildfire was snuggled between Airmail and Tempest. Both were trying to get her to eat the veggie casserole after she found out it had celery in it. Now she saw her opportunity to escape. “Yes Mistress!”

“You have graduated to Middle Pet for tonight,” continued Mapper, “and do finish your food you took from the buffet.”

Wildfire’s ears drooped in defeat, “Yes Mistress.”

Mapper continued, “Now I have a complete set! Do you think if I combine them I’ll get an alicorn?” The ponies around her laughed.

Trumpet was star struck by the sight of Octavia, and he spoke to Dusk, “Think she would join us on that Trotskovsky piece?”

Dusk snickered, “Try stopping her, with her Mistresses permission, of course.”

Mapper looked at the stallions, “She came here to perform and perform she will!”

Caffeinated joined them at the table, “Good evening Luna, here is your lunar café, not on the menu, and Mapper, what is Octavia drinking?” Another hush fell over the crowd when they realised how familiar the barista was with royalty.

Luna interrupted, “Mistress Mapper, my pet has been bad, so if I might suggest Earl Grey tea for her.” Octavia let out a little whine and pawed at Luna’s dress.

“Very bad indeed,” Mapper nodded. “Mistress Luna, would you do me the honour of taking care of your Pet’s watering and feeding for the night?”

“Very good Mistress Mapper,” Luna turns to the zebra, “Earl Grey for my wayward pet.”

“Same as your son?” Caffeinated asked, “With steamed milk?”

Luna nodded, “That will be fine.” She noted that Mapper was feeding Serenity from her plate, and looped the reins over Octavia’s neck. “Pet, please fetch me a plate of food and put enough on the plate for yourself too.”

“Yes Mistress.” Octavia walked over to the buffet and started loading up a plate.

Caffeinated returned with a tray full of drinks. He put Octavia’s tea where Mapper pointed and distributed refills to the herd.

Luna held up her cup of coffee, “I normally drink it black, but I approve of this non-menu coffee.” The zebra simply smiled as he returned to the coffee bar.

“Shine?” Dusk asked. He only received his mom’s smile for an answer.

Octavia returned with a plate full and set it in front of Luna. The alicorn smiled, “Do drink your tea Pet before it gets cold.”

The grey mare did so with a grimace and hoped her wife would soon give her some food to hide the taste.

Caffeinated moved to the building entrance as he saw a white zebra enter, “Shangazi kahawa kuwakaribasha usiku.” His aunt’s coat was liberally sprinkled with grey and there was plenty of sliver highlights in her mane and tail. They gave each other a nuzzle and then he continued, “Angalia Mungu wa Usikuni hapa!”

The mare responded, “Lazima uwe utani kwamba hawezi kuwa!”

Both Luna and Mapper turned when they heard the Zebran spoken. Mapper broke out in laughter and Luna turned her attention back to the pink unicorn. Mapper controlled her laughter, “That’s Coffee Bean, Caffy’s aunt and High Priestess of the Hall. He is bragging about you being here, and she doesn’t believe him.”

Luna commented, “You do know I speak fluent Zebran.”

Mapper rolled her eyes, “I’d hope so since they worship you. Other than Thespy, the rest of the herd doesn’t understand Zebran. I just want to let them in on the joke.”

Caffeinated gestured at the herd table and watch his aunt’s eyes go wide. After a couple of minutes he finally nudged the frozen mare to move.

Coffee Bean did eventually move on unsteady legs. As she got closer she moved faster and fell prostrate to the floor in front of Luna, “Naomba huwezi kunipiga wafu Mungu wa Usiku,” the mare begged.

Caffeinated put a hoof on the mare’s shoulder, “Tu kuamka yeye ni nzuri na kuzungumza Equestrian.”

Luna smiles, “Please arise and I’ll be killing no ponies tonight. Caffeinated has spoken highly of his family.”

Coffee Bean stands, “Oh, please forgive my rudeness.”

Luna pats a spot next to her, “There is nothing to forgive. Please join us at the table. Caffy, fetch your Aunt a lunar café please, and a refill for me.”

Caffeinated does a little bow, “At once your Highness.”

Coffee Bean was in awe, “This, this is most unexpected Mungu wa Usiku, how may I serve you?”

Caffeinated called out from the coffee bar, “You could bring her the coffee.”

Luna watched the elderly mare seemed to fly to the coffee bar and put the tray on her back. She returned just as swiftly without spilling a drop. Coffee Bean set the tray on the table and hoofed Luna her drink. She raised the drink, “To the night.”

Coffee Bean raised her own cup and replied, “Ndoto Mwezi.”

Luna’s turquoise eyes narrowed, and she saw genuine fear in the mare before her. She had forgotten the zebra still revered her for what she once was. Luna tapped the cup and took a drink while she watched as the zebra took a long awaited breath and sipped from her own cup.

Coffee Bean coughed as the coffee and moonshine poured down her throat. “Forgive me.”

Luna lightly laid a hoof on Coffee Bean’s shoulder, “There are things that should not be spoken of in the open.”

Caffeinated, Thespian, and Topper joined the table. Caffeinated stated, “Everything is well in hoof and it is time to get the open mic going. Is everything okay Lulu?”

Coffee Bean swung a forehoof and stuck Caffeinated, “Angalau yeye nyuka wewe wafu!”

Luna again put her hoof on Coffee Bean’s shoulder. “Please Coffee Bean, I can accept informalities with friends, and nopony will be struck dead tonight.” She sipped her coffee, “Unless the coffee should run dry.”

Coffee Bean leapt to her hooves in a panic, “Je, una kutosha? Je, mimihaja ya simu ghala?”

Caffeinated hugged his aunt tight, “Please calm down. Everything is fine. We have plenty of coffee, just relax.”

“Forgive me Coffee Bean,” Luna said with a smile, “Your nephew’s life is safe, it was but a joke.”

Coffee Bean blinked a few times as she calmed down, “Kama wewe kusema, Mungu wa Usiku.”

Caffeinated released his hug, “Yes she said it, now sit down next to your Goddess and learn from her. And please, Aunt, speak Equestrian.”

The opening acts of the open mic are normally reserved for first time performers. The audience gave instant and honest feedback. Cheers and clapping hooves are loud, but so are the cat calls and comments for any unfortunate poor performances. Nothing derogatory was said, and it is all meant to be in good fun.

Mapper spoke up, “Well that was very entertaining. Any more of your relatives showing up tonight, Caffy?”

Caffeinated chuckled, “Cousin Leaf may show up to play her drums.”

Octavia took another sip of her cooled tea and grimaced. She looked to her son and opened her mouth only to close it. She then looked to Luna and Mapper.

Mapper didn’t miss what happened. “Junior Pet, you are on Free Time until I have need of your services. If you want food or drink you are dependent on the whims of Mistress Luna.”

Octavia let a smile cross her lips, “Thank you Mistress.” She turned back to her son, “Dusk, who’s your friend, sitting next to you?”

“Oh, right mum,” Dusk puts a foreleg around the earth pony’s shoulder. “This is Brush Stroke.” Dusk noticed that he is still too shocked to speak. “He likes to go by the name Oils.”

“Mistress Luna,” Mapper enquired, “do you have a favourite piece you would like Junior Pet to perform?”

Luna responded, “Yes, I’d like her to play Les Carnaval des Animaux. It’s a Prench piece.”

Dusk hugged his companion tighter, “Oils, this is my mum, and my mom of course.”

Mapper smiled, “Excellent choice. I do hope she has some stamina tonight.” Mapper enjoyed the indignant look on the mare’s face. “The stallions, Dusk and Trumpet would like her to join them in some sombre piece. I also plan to have her play to a poem read by Middle Pet and to a song that Senior Pet will sing.”

Luna waved a dismissive hoof, “She’ll do fine. May I inquire as to what your Pets will be performing?”

Coffee Bean muttered, “Nilidhani kungekuwa taa zaidi na chini ya majadiliano.”

Luna did a spit take and turned back to the zebra she saw cringe. “I like to chat over coffee so I fear there will be no lighting tonight, and your Equestrian is slipping.”

Coffee Bean bowed low, “Sorry, sorry, please forgive this silly mare.”

Luna leaned forward and kissed the mare’s nose which left Coffee Bean speechless. “I like silly mares.”

Mapper laughed, “Then you will truly like that one. Anyways, I’m having Middle Pet read the Jabberwocky.” She hoofed the poem in braille to Wildfire. “Study that Middle Pet and do not embarrass me.”

Wildfire took the sheet of paper, “Yes Mistress.” She ran a hoof over the bumps while Airmail and Tempest watched, intrigued.

Mapper continued, “Senior Pet will sing Ode to Joy. I have the sheet music to both, in case Junior Pet is unfamiliar with the works.”

Octavia sniffed, “I have performed both, Mistress Mapper.”

Mapper kept mental note of the infractions that Junior Pet would account for. “Middle Pet you are on Free Time until your performance. You have poems to read?”

“Yes, Mistress,” responded Wildfire, “I have two, Mistress.”

“Very good,” Mapper nodded, “You will perform those first so your voice is warmed up for the poem I want you to read.”

“Yes Mistress,” was Wildfire’s response.

Recital was whispering in Coffee Bean’s ear when the zebra mare leapt again to her hooves. “Yeye alifanya nini?”

Caffeinated face hoofed. Luna looked back to the zebra mare and smiled.

Coffee Bean pointed a hoof at her nephew, “Je, kweli kuwaambia mungu wa usiku alikuwa farasi mbaya?”

“Equestrian Aunt, Equestrian!” said the exasperated zebra stallion. “I did say that because she was a bad pony.”

“Bado wanaaishi?” Coffee Bean said with disbelief.

Luna again put her hoof on Coffee Bean’s shoulder, “He lives because I was a bad pony.”

Coffee Bean sat back down as she tried to comprehend what had happened. Recital smiled and again started to whisper in the zebra mare’s ear.

Both Luna and Caffeinated waited to see what Coffee Bean would do next.

Brush Stroke finally found his voice, “Interesting family and friends you have Dusk.” He turned to Octavia, “It is a pleasure to meet you Lady Octavia, and you Princess Luna.”

“It is nice to meet my son’s friends,” Octavia started, but she was interrupted when Luna decided to feed her again.

“We will have to talk more, Oils.” Luna commented before she turned to her wife. “I expect you to finish that tea.”

Octavia replied in a very subdued voice, “Yes Mistress.”

Omega ate off of Sunshine’s plate, “So, Dusk, you and Oils have hit it off? Where did you find this drifter, Oils?

Dusk nuzzled his friend, “Yes, we’re together.”

Brush Stroke saw the lay of the land and kissed his partner, “This little darling happened to sit in the way of my painting, and I asked him to shift it. We ended up talking.” He kissed Dusk again, “I do like his blush too.”

Omega chuckled, “Yes, he does blush rather well,” only to watch Dusk blush harder. “So, he didn’t play hard to get?”

“Is this an interview, Omega?” Dusk asked.

“Not at all,” Brush Stroke continued, “he was very interested in what I was painting, and I couldn’t shake him off.” He looked between the two, “Interview?”

Dusk commented, “This stallion is the political reporter for the Manehatten Times, and he has interviewed me before.”

Brush Stroke nodded, “Maybe I should start reading the paper.”

Coffee Bean let out a high pitch squeal and fell over with one forehoof raised in the air.

Caffeinated rushed over to her and with the aid of Recital and Trumpet help to get her upright. With a voice just above a whisper and a look of desperation in her eyes, Coffee Bean asked, “Wewe alimgonga yake?”

Luna, Mapper, and Thespian burst into giggles.

“I told you, Aunt,” replied Caffeinated, “she was a bad pony.”

As Luna laughed she gasped out, “He swings hard too.”

Coffee Bean took her nephew’s face in her hooves, “Sisi kamwe kuzungumza haya tena.”

Caffeinated nuzzled his aunt, “It never happened, no problem Aunt. Please try to speak Equestrian.”

Luna regained control of herself, “I don’t know if my bottom will let me forget,” The squeak from Coffee Bean was precious. “Son, when were you going to introduce us to your new coltfriend?”

Thespian excused herself from the table as Dusk winced, “Give me a chance, mom. I just met him!”

Omega laughed, “He doesn’t want Oils to slip from his hooves, Luna.”

Sunshine chimed in, “Besides, he is already at stage four. Meet the parents.”

Omega laughed, “Have you kissed him Dusk?” He promptly kissed his ray of sunshine.

Brush Stroke smiled, “Oh, he has, haven’t you love?” He leaned in half way to Dusk, who closed the distance to complete the kiss. Sunshine and Omega both clapped their hooves quietly.

Dusk looked at the stallion, “Many times once it stopped raining.” He turned to his mothers, “You’ve met him now. I hope you are pleased.” Luna nodded, while she may not know his works, the others seemed to think he is a good artist. Time would tell if he was good enough for her son. Dusk planted one more kiss on Brush Stroke, “I’m still hungry, do you want anything?”

Brush Stroke nodded, “Just fill a plate for the two of us.” He watched Dusk walk off to the buffet table, “He’s such a pretty mare.”

“Yes, he is,” Omega agreed.

“I’ve seen him prettier,” commented Luna.

Thespian walked past the table wearing armour and fake wings. “My turn,” she said as she walked past and onto the stage. The herd listened as she sang the ‘Rhine maidens’ Song’ as Flosshilde. Her performance was followed my much hoof clapping and cheers from the audience and herd.

“This performance is splendid,” Brush Stroke announced. As Dusk sat back down at the table he leaned toward Omega, “But not a patch on last night’s performance I gather.” His smile grew wider as Dusk blushed.

Omega nodded, “I’m quite sure I heard Thespian singing last night too.”

Thespian returned to the table. She left her armour and wings on. “I’m sure you did Omega. It is good our beds don’t squeak too loudly.”

Brush Stroke nuzzled Dusk, “Dusky was quite proud of it once I got it out of him. As I said, such a pretty mare.”

“Oh,” Omega smiled, “you’re speaking of his performance.”

Dusk grew positively hot next to him, “Yes, the four on one, I believe?”

“His performance was award winning,” commented Luna. She was happy to see Brush Stroke had to keep Dusk from crawling under the table.

“Well I did cheat a bit,” Omega admitted, “I did take two turns.”

Sunny added, “After the performance he proved just how pretty he can be.”

“Could we move along,” pleaded Dusk.

Brush Stroke gave him another kiss, “Yes dear.”

“Wildfire,” Caffeinated called out. Once he had the mare’s attention, “You’re up next after this act.”

“Thank you, sir,” she nuzzled her companions, “I got this.”

Airmail asked, “Do you need help getting to the stage?”

“I just need directions,” Wildfire responded.

Airmail and Tempest shared a look and Tempest whispered into Wildfire’s ear, “Okay, after you stand turn to your right. About fifteen paces will put you even with the stage. Turn left and the stage is about twenty paces away. There is a gap between the tables, but it isn’t a big gap. Stage is about one foot off the floor. It is ten by ten and the mic is front centre.”

Wildfire nodded, “I got it. Nothing to do but do it.”

Airmail added, “Go ahead to the first turn left and wait. Sonic will announce you.” She gave Wildfire a kiss which was followed up with Tempest’s kiss.

Wildfire stood up and moved to the spot. She really didn’t want to fail in front of the others. Sunshine smiled, “Dusk did look good in silver highlights, but with your fur you’d look good in gold highlights, Oils.”

Luna leaned over and kissed Octavia on a lighter bit of grey fur, “You’re my pretty mare.”

Brush Stroke laughed, “You may be right, but I’ll never be as pretty as this mare,” he said as he hugged Dusk.

Octavia moves to kiss Luna on the lips, “I’m not that pretty.”

Sonic’s voice came over the PA system, “Next up is Wildfire with some poetry.”

Mapper’s stern voice sounded, “Junior Pet will not embarrass the Mistress with disagreement!”

Octavia looked like she was about to cry, “No Mistress.” She leaned against Luna, “I’m your pretty mare.”

Brush Stoke looked to the stage, “Isn’t that your friend Dusky?”

Dusk watched Wildfire move her way forward, “Yes, and she is quite good at poetry.”

Wildfire held her wings in front with tips to the floor as she moved forward. She felt the chairs as she passed tables, and heard the comments from ponies who realized she was blind. She was worried at first, but none of the comments were hurtful. Just realization or encouragement. When she felt the stage she stepped up and move to what she though was the middle and turned left. Wildfire moved forward till she felt the mic stand, just a bit to her left. She took a moment to centre herself. ‘I did it!’ The mare smiled and her voice caught the first try, “H-hi, th-th…” Wildfire cleared her throat, “Excuse me! Hi, this is a poem called ‘Flying High’ and I dedicate it to Airmail and Tempest who helped me know what it was like to fly again.” Wildfire took a calming breath. Her braille notes were under a hoof, but she didn’t need them.

“Up I fly, Through the sky.
On eagle's wings, Soaring high.
Down below, Rivers flow.
Waving plains See me go.
Sun so bright, It's almost white.
My wings of gold Reflect its light.
In the air, Flies my hair.
Inside of me, Joy flares.
Gaze upon the sea. I think it's like me.
None can hold it. Forever free.”

She heard plenty of hoof claps and Airmail whistle. “Thank you, this second one I call ‘Wildfire’. It is for the herd of friends that have taken me in.

From the audience a pony called out, “Yeah, I’ve heard of friends.”

Wildfire snickered, “That’s good, do you have any?” Which was followed by much laughter. Once again Wildfire paused to centre herself. She did change paper just in case, but her confidence built from the audience reaction.

“I burn I bake I turn I wake.
Filled with the fire you set in my heart.
I can't explain my desire been there from the start.
Hot flame engulfs my brain I couldn't douse it if I tried.
You melt my pain forgetting the times I cried.
Does your blaze burn too, mine keeps growing.
Please tell me if you do for my seeds keep sowing.
You started me like a match faster than fast.
My soul you did snatch wildfire at last.”

More hooves clapped and Wildfire made it off the stage. She walked back through the tables with encouragement voiced in her ears. Once back she received a big hug from Tempest. “You’ve set my heart on fire.”

“Thank you Honey” she said as she returned a nuzzle. “What did you think, Pretty?”

Airmail led off with a lusty kiss, “They are as beautiful as you, and your beauty shines.”

Sonic called Recital and she excused herself from the table. Coffee Bean watched her go as she pondered all that Recital had told her.

“Those were lovely poems, Wildfire,” commented Dusk.

“Thank you D.” Wildfire couldn’t contain her glee, “And for more kisses like that I can read more poetry.”

“Sounds like some bed time reading,” added Tempest as the got in on the action.

“The Trotskovsky piece is up next,” Caffeinated informed the group, “and Mapper, I’ve added Octavia to your pet line up. Order is Earth, Pegasus, and Unicorn.”

“Thank you Caffy,” Mapper responded.

While Recital sang an original dark song about bullies and poisoned chocolates, the musicians readied their interments. When Recital left the stage, the audience were left pondering if they really wanted to eat the chocolates on the table. A hush moved through the crowd when the three ponies took the stage. Most ponies would pay hundreds, even thousands, of bits to listen to Octavia play, and here they were able to listen for free.

“Middle Pet,” Mapper inquired, “Are you familiar with the poem? You may take the notes with you.”

“I am, Mistress,” Wildfire answered, but she held the notes just in case.

Mapper smiled, “I found your poems acceptable, Pet, you may have a dessert of your choice.”

“Thank you Mistress,” Wildfire glowed with the praise.

Airmail asked, “Would you like your dessert now?”

“Only if there is chocolate,” Wildfire licked her lips.

Airmail lowered her voice to a whisper as the audience had grown silent, “After this performance.”

Luna’s voice could just be heard, “Make me proud my love.”

The three, being as they were, well versed in classical music performed the sad poetic symphony named Marche Slave by Trotskovsky flawlessly. The haunting music mesmerized the audience. When they finished there was a moment of silence before thunderous hoof clapping and cheers erupted.

As the three took their bows, Luna move her hoof over to Mapper’s, “I do love to hear my Pet play.” The alicorn wiped away her tears.

The group returned to the table and put away their instruments. “Junior Pet,” Mapper called out, “You have earned a dessert and drink of your choice. Do finish the tea first though, one should not be wasteful.”

Airmail stood, “I’ll get your chocolate love, and be right back.”

“Thank you Airy,” responded Wildfire.

“Yes Mistress,” Octavia said as she finished the nasty tea.

“What would you like Pet?” asked Luna.

“Milky coffee and a chocolate too, if it pleases you Mistress.” Octavia answered.

Caffeinated smiled, “One Celestia special coming up. Requiem, you and Longshore are up after this next act. Then it is my turn, and Lavender, you’re after me.” Caffeinated moved off to get the coffee.

Airmail returns with two plates of chocolate. “Here you go Wily. Luna, I heard what your pet wanted and took the liberty to bring it for her.”

Octavia smiled, “Thank you Ms. Airmail.”

Wildfire inhaled the delicious dessert, “Thank you Pretty.”

Luna kissed Octavia, “You did very well love.”

“All three of you did very well,” amended Thespian.

“Most true,” Luna agreed.

Caffeinated sat the cream with coffee in front of Octavia while Requiem and Longshore excused themselves from the table. “Baron, if you could pony the fort while I take my turn?”

“Of course I can.” Baron replied as he stood to see to the guests.

The herd watched Requiem and Longshore do a feisty ballroom dance on the small stage. The performance received well, and earned the pair much appreciated responses from the audience. Caffeinated moved onto the stage after the couple left. “Out of deference to our very special guest and to my Aunt, I will first read my poem in Zebran. Out of deference to the rest of you I’ll read it again in Equestrian. The audience laughed. Caffeinated did his first read through.

“Katika usiku sisi wanazurura Ni giza, tuko peke yake.
Hata hivyo mimi sina hofu kwa mwezi ni karibu.
Mwanga wake unang'aa juu yangu na wote mimi kweli wanahitaji kuona.
Mimi Bask katika mwanga wake laini ulimwengu mpya gani kuonyesha.
Amani na utulivu ni moja katika utulivu.
Mungu wa Usiku na mwanga wake upendo, mioyo kila mahali kuachiwa huru.
Bila wasiwasi au hofu ya kuishi maisha ya haki, na Mungu wa Usiku.”

Coffee Bean watched her goddess while her nephew read. She saw Luna’s eyes shine with moisture and smiled as Caffeinated then started his second read through.

“In the night we roam It is dark, we’re alone.
Yet I have no fear for the moon is near.
Her light shines on me and all I truly need to see.
I bask in its soft glow a new world does it show.
Peace and tranquility are one in serenity.
Goddess of the night with her loving light, hearts everywhere set free.
Without worry or fear to live life right, by the Goddess of the Night."

Brush Stroke commented to Dusk, “His poem is rather good.”

The loudest hooves clapped at the herd table, while the rest of the audience also showed their appreciation. In part because Caffeinated ran this event and made it free to attend. He passed Lavender on the way to the table. “Mapper, there is this and one more act before your Pets perform. Thank you Baron, I have the helm.”

“Stripes,” Dusk commented, “You came close to matching Wily’s reading.”

“C’mon D,” Wildfire exclaimed, “He did much better than me!”

Caffeinated chuckled, “Tie?”

Wildfire giggled, “Tie.”

Coffee Bean leaned close to her nephew, “Mimini fahari yaw ewe mpwa.”

Luna waved the zebra stallion over to her, “Your aunt is right to be proud. Thank you for the lovely poem.” She followed up with a kiss.

“You are most welcome, Mungu wa Usiku,” Caffeinated returned the kiss.

Lavender then proceeded to tell an utterly outrageous story about a cabbage and a motorcycle road trip which left the audience gasping for breath. Even Luna thought it was the funniest story since forever. “I do hope someone has a recording of that,” gasped Luna. “Tia so needs to hear it.” When the mare returned to the table Luna had her breath back under control, “Really, A helmet on a cabbage for safety?” Lavender took a little bow for a reply.

“Mapper,” Caffeinated stated to get the mare’s attention. “Your three are the last of the program. They follow Coffee Bean and after your group is karaoke.”

“Thank you Caffy,” Mapper nodded.

Dusk kissed Brush Stroke, “Having fun Oils?”

Brush Stroke smiled, “Not bad for a first date, Dusky.”

Caffeinated brought around refills, and whispered far too loud into Dusk’s ear, “How did the questionnaire go?”

Dusk choked on his tea and tried to slip under the table. His cheeks burned with embarrassment as Caffeinated walked off snickering.

“Oh, I smell a story.” Brush Stroke nuzzled the stallion that attempted to escape.

“No!” Dusk shook his head, “No story, nothing at all to tell.”

Wildfire laughed, “I’ll be happy to tell him.”

Dusk’s voice grew stern, “You wouldn’t dare!”

Mapper interjected, “Please refrain from ordering my Pet around. It’s not that I want to save you, Prince, but your story can wait till karaoke starts. Plus, I trust my Pet to speak truthfully.” Dusk grumbled, but said nothing.

“Aunt,” Caffeinated started, “It doesn’t look like Leaf made it, but Sonic has the recording.” He kissed the zebra mare’s cheek. “Do well.”

Coffee Bean took the stage and the audience gave her respectful silence least the Priestess cast some zebra curse on them. Sonic started the recording of tribal drums and Coffee Bean danced like a mare a third her age. The dance included a chanted prayer in Zebran. It was a prayer to Nightmare Moon seeking protection and good harvest.

Luna watched the performance intently, and listened to the words of the prayer. Too much history that she had tried hard to forget came to the forefront of her mind. The performance was flawless, yet Luna was uncertain what to think about it.

Mapper laid a hoof over Luna’s, “Treat it for what it is. A hope that you can still provide.” She watched Luna nod before she removed the hoof. Coffee Bean left the stage. “Junior Pet you are on stage for three performances. Do not embarrass me.” Mapper looked to her other two Pets. “I will say the same to both of you.”

“Yes Mistress,” Octavia and Wildfire said together. Serenity said nothing but did bow.

The audience went quite as Octavia took the stage for a solo performance. She began the Prench piece and her cello sang. To Luna, Mapper whispered, “You’d think she has unicorn magic.”

Luna whispered back, “Indeed, I think so myself.” Luna smiled at the flawless performance.

The audience erupted with hoof claps and cheers at the end of the performance. Mapper stated, “Airmail, be a dear, and lick the chocolate off Middle Pet’s face.”

“With pleasure!” Airmail announced as she went to work and quickly licked Wildfire’s muzzle most thoroughly.

“Middle Pet, make your way to the stage quickly now. Start your reading after Junior Pet does the intro bit of music.” Mapper saw Tempest started to whisper to Wildfire. “Tempest! Stop being a mother hen. She made it up there fine on her own the first time.”

Wildfire enjoyed the face cleaning and gave each of her mares a kiss, “Yes Mistress!” The diminutive pegasus followed the same path to the stage. When she stepped up on it Octavia gave a light tap of her hoof to let her know where she stood. Wildfire moved to the mic and sat down with a hoof hoovering over the paper. She was determined to do this and not give any reason to embarrass her Mistress.

Octavia begun to play and on cue Wildfire read the poem. She tried to be as dramatic as she could. The poem itself was rather funny though and it was a challenge for the mare.

A few moments into the performance and Luna winced. She whispered to Mapper, “She drops a note now and again. It’s the arthritis in her hooves.”

Mapper shrugged and whispered back, “I wouldn’t know. I listen to carnival music all day.”

Throughout the poem the audience laughed, and at the end they clapped loudly. Wildfire took a bow and left the stage and returned to the table. Serenity passed her on the way and brushed Wildfire’s flank with her own.

“She dropped two notes on that piece,” stated Luna, “and she will admit to it.”

Wildfire returned to the table, “You have pleased me Middle Pet,” commented Mapper, “you may have some of Airmail’s cake.”

“Oh, come on!” Airmail sounded upset, but both she and Mapper giggled.

“Yay!” said a happy Wildfire, “I get cake.”

Serenity walked onto the stage and moved over to nuzzle Octavia. “They judge us as individuals. Don’t get lost in my singing.”

Octavia nuzzled back as she flexed her sore aching hooves. “Very well.” Serenity moved forward to the mic. The audience was enraptured by their presence. Two of the greatest performers on stage together in a downtown coffee shop. They saw history being made. Serenity made full use of her three octave range to belt out the song, and Octavia used her cello to sing for her.

Brush Stroke commented to Dusk, “You could have sold tickets for a thousand bits a seat for this performance.”

Luna though listened with a fine ear and fought to hold back the tears as her wife dropped note after note. “She’s struggling.”

“You will have to forgive me for my punishment will be light,” responded Mapper. “This is too beautiful.”

“It is, isn’t it? Still if she was doing it on purpose, I’d say don’t hold back,” Luna responded, “but she is truly trying her best.”

Mapper reached out a hoof to Luna, “I take it she can be quite naughty if she feels you’re being inattentive?”

Luna nodded, “She can be a hoof full at times.”

The performance ended and it brought the house down. So many texted the ‘I was there when it happened’ texts to friends and family. The pair left the stage and Caffeinated took their place. He waited for the crowd to calm down before he made his announcement. “Thank you all for attending. The mic is now open to anyone that wants to do karaoke. Please give your song selection or track to Sonic.” Caffeinated returned to the herd’s table. Ponies lined up to talk with Sonic. Some came this night for karaoke, but found much more.

“Mistress Luna,” Mapper led off when Serenity and Octavia arrived at the table, “I noticed how beautiful Junior and Senior Pet looked on stage, and I have to ask where you got Junior Pet’s gown?”

“Ms. Rarity was quite kind enough to make it for me,” answered Luna. “She is very generous with her talent.”

“I should ask Coco about it then,” responded Mapper, “she may be able to make me a near copy. I think it would look fetching on Senior Pet.”

Luna smiled, “There is no reason you can’t have her put on Junior Pet’s gown right now.”

“Ah, but there is,” Mapper spoke with a sly smile. “Junior Pet, how was your performance?”

Octavia stared down at her own forehooves, ashamed her body was failing her. “I failed, Mistress, I’m afraid to say I dropped five notes throughout the night.”

Mapper nodded, “Senior Pet, yours?”

Serenity looked Mapper in the eye, “I failed, Mistress, I missed a note.”

“Mistress,” interjected Octavia, “She missed the same note I did, and I believe th…”

Mapper cut her off, “You will not make excuses for Senior Pet!”

Octavia’s voice was sorrowful, “I have failed you Mistress.”

Mapper looked to the blind pegasus, “Middle Pet! I would have your opinion on Junior Pet and Senior Pet’s performance.”

“Mistress,” Wildfire responded, “I felt they were both excellent, I really enjoyed the show.”

Mapper turned to her wife, and Serenity spoke, “She tells the truth, Mistress.”

“Mistress Luna,” Mapper said as she turned to the Princess, “where will you be spending the night?”

Luna smiled, “I have not made plans, and mayhap you have a suggestion?”

Mapper thought out loud, “Should I punish them now or later, is the question.”

Luna shrugged her shoulders, “I see no harm in punishing them later, Mistress Mapper.”

“Caffy,” Mapper called out, “you up for house guests?”

Caffeinated laughed lightly, “Is there a time when I’m not?”

“Well,” Mapper’s grin took on a feral look, “there was that time when…”

“Yes!” Caffeinated interrupted, “I’m available for house guests!”

Mapper giggled with enjoyment at the zebra’s embarrassment, “Airy, Stormy, are you two up for another night at Caffy’s place?”

Tempest replied, “I’m free and clear for Saturday.”

Airmail added, “Sure, as long as you don’t keep me up all night.”

“Then, Mistress Luna,” Mapper spoke, “may I suggest you spend the night at Caffy’s. It would be better than any hotel.”

Luna nodded, “I would have to agree with you there.”

Coffee Bean looked to her nephew, “Mungu wa Usiku ni kukaa katika nyumba yako?”

Luna laughed, “Yes, Coffee Bean, I am, again. Your equestrian is slipping again.”

Coffee Bean announced, “Mimi kukas…forgive, then I’m staying at my nephew’s house too.”

Caffeinated smiled, “I love you, Aunt, and you’re always welcome.”

“This has the makings of a fun night,” Luna added.

“As for punishments,” Mapper’s voice turned serious, “If you wait too long they forget why they’re being punished.”

Luna amended her earlier statement, “Our Pets are intelligent, but I can understand your concern.”

Mapper nodded, “Yes, at least some of the time they are.” She giggled and then resumed her role as Mistress, “Senior Pet you embarrassed me with your performance! Remove your gown!”

“Yes Mistress,” Serenity responded and quickly used her magic to remove the fancy gown which left her wearing a rope harness and panties.

Coffee Bean said, “One sexy mare,” and when she saw Serenity blush she added a whistle.

“I fully agree with my Priestess on that,” added Luna.

Mapper looked Octavia over, “As for you Junior Pet. Your punishment will start now also. From now until dawn Middle Pet will carry you cello.”

Octavia’s eyes went wide, “But Mistress,” she said as stamped a hoof on the floor. Mapper’s grin widened as she waited to see if Octavia could dig her hole any deeper.

Luna came to her wife’s rescue, “Pet…”

Octavia closed her eyes with a soft sigh, “Yes, Mistress.”

Mapper smirked, “Spunky. So, Luna, will your son be joining us tonight?” Mapper spoke as if the pegasus wasn’t there.

Luna turned to her son, “Well?”

“Actually,” Dusk answered, “I’m heading back over to Oil’s place.”

“After I’ve heard the questionnaire story, darling,” Brush Stroke interjected.

Mapper laughed, “Middle Pet you have free time, as I want to hear this story too.”

Caffeinated barked out laughter while Wildfire also laughed with an evil grin on her muzzle. Airmail moved to a guard position between Dusk and Wildfire.

Dusk shook his head, “Mom, banish me now, please.”

Luna shook her head, “Hush, it’s a funny story.”

Wildfire raised her head high, “Well, y’know how Vocal Chord was his first coltfriend, right? D was so nervous about asking him out on his first date he went to Princess Twilight, his old teacher, for advice.”

Dusk cringed in his seat while Omega nuzzled his husband, “You’re going to like this story, Sunny.”

“Princess Twilight,” Wildfire continued, “gave him a book. One hundred one tips for the novice romancer, and he followed it word for word!”

Dusk tried to slip under the table, but Brush Stroke caught him in his hooves, “You aren’t going anywhere beautiful.”

Wildfire could only imagine how much Dusk squirmed, “He wrote out a seventy-five question questionnaire,” she laughed, “it was twenty-five pages!”

Dusk groaned, but Omega added, “It gets better.”

Wildfire tried to control her own laughter, “Dusk got a hot air balloon from the Princess, and gave the questionnaire to Vocal Chord during the ride.” Wildfire could no longer control her laughter as she finished, “and Vocal Chord took one look at it and tossed it over the side of the balloon!”

Brush Stroke busted out laughing, “Oh, darling that is priceless!”

Omega put his two bits in, “Should have arrested the both of them for littering.”

Dusk facehooved, “When will you stop telling that story?”

Wildfire continued to laugh, “When it stops being funny!”

Omega smiled and added, “I think it would be a fitting epitaph, ‘Wait I’m only on question fifty-two!’”

“Wildfire,” Luna snorted and giggled, “it will never stop being funny.”

Dusk groaned, “Thanks Twi…”

Caffeinated clapped Dusk on the shoulder, “Now you can proceed to question Oils without fear,” he snickered.

Dusk rolled his eyes, “I hate you all. Mom, seriously? Couldn’t you have banished me five minutes ago?”

Between her laughs, Luna got one word out, “No!”

Brush Stoke snuggled Dusk, “Smile darling, it was pretty funny.”

Trumpet spoke up, “Caffy, you going to want some moral support tonight?”

“Really Trumpet,” Thespian said, “You don’t think my husband can handle nine mares?”

Trumpet smiled, “It would be ten if I come over.”

Dusk looked at Octavia, “I think Trumpet just wants to hang out with my mum.”

“Well it won’t be eleven,” Brush Stroke said, “as I’m taking my mare home.”

Dusk nuzzled his companion, “I’m your mare now?”

“Of course you are dear,” Brush Stroke said with a kiss.

Mapper spoke up, “Your mare? You should dress her up nice. Lavender, yes, Dusk would look best in Lavender.”

“I’m not too sure about that,” Lavender responded, “Do you think he would look good in my Topper?” Mapper facehooved at a pun gone wrong and Lavender laughed.

Caffeinated spoke while the others groaned. “Sure Trumpet, we can play some cribbage while the mares hatch some nefarious scheme to doom us all.”

“As long as you have coffee,” Luna stated, “You are free from my nefarious schemes.”

Coffee Bean looked at Luna with a gleam in her eyes, “Tunapaswa mpango wa zaidi ya kutupa ziezi wa jua.”

Caffeinated quickly responded, “Aunt! Now is not the time!”

“Caffy is right,” Luna said as she lightly put a hoof on Coffee Bean’s shoulder, “my sister will have to wait for another time.”

Coffee Bean smiled, “I’m patient.”

“As am I,” Luna added and then she turned to Oils, “So, where will you be taking my colt?”

Brush Stroke answered, “My place is not far from the uptown park, Princess.”

Sunshine nudged Omega, “To bliss if he is a good pony.”

Baron asked, “On the west side?”

Brush Stoke answered Sunshine first, “I’m counting on him being a naughty mare first.” He then turned to the elder, “Yes sir, it is.”

Luna smiled, “Please, less of the ‘Princess’, Oils. We’re practically family.”

Omega nuzzled his husband, “Sing me a song, Sunny.” He watched the stallion get up and head over to where Sonic waited. “Your mare likes it rough, in case he hasn’t been confessing.”

Brush Stroke smiled as he watched Dusk blush, “Oh, does he now? This night gets better and better.”

“He does another trick,” Omega snickered, “but I’ll not reveal that one.”

“Well I do have all night,” Brush Stoke kissed Dusk and helped him to his hooves. The group said their good-byes as the pair left.