Chapters We interrupt this program...
Hello everyone! Sorry I've not updated recently, college has been driving me up the wall. However I did write the Daring Do one shot for The Album , you can find it here . I've resumed working on the story, so you'll be seeing more of Bass here soon. In the mean time, have a picture of young Bass.
A Beginning
“Gather around now, everypony, and listen to my tale. This isn’t your everyday normal pony tale, no for this is a special story. Some say it never happened, some say it’s over exaggeration and all hooha. But believe me when I tell you my dearies, the story I am about to tell you is one near and dear to me. For you see, I was there. This is the story about a young, extraordinary Pegasus, who was born to two earth ponies. Some say what happened was impossible, while others, such as myself, believe it to be a miracle. This is his story, for he was indeed, a different kind of pony.”
<<(@)>>
Bass was born and raised in a small town on the edge of Manehatten to the parents of Rolan and Abigail Iron. His father worked as a farm hoof on a nearby produce farm while his mother ran and owned a small book store. When the Irons found out they were pregnant, they were excited, however, as the delivery date approached Abigail Iron began having complications, forcing her to have her baby a month and a half early. The two nurses brought the incubator into the room for the newborn foal.
“Congratulations Mr. and Mrs. Iron, it's a baby colt," the doctor proclaimed.
Both parents eagerly looked through the see thru top of the life support machine, seeing for the first time their brand new child. He had a soft grey coat, the mane and tail a dazzling white. They couldn't see the baby’s eyes since they were squeezed shut. What surprised the couple most were the objects attached to the colt's back; Wings.
The next time the doctor came Rolan asked him, explaining how nopony on either side had a family member with wings for generations. The doctor immediately summoned two technicians and had blood drawn from both parents and the baby. They waited anxiously for hours before the doctor came back with a chart.
"I have good news and bad news," he said, looking sympathetically at the new parents. "The good news is, this baby is indeed both of yours." Abigail sighed in relief while Rolan just held his wife's hoof. "And the bad?" he asked quietly. The doctor put the chart down and walked over to the couple, looking down at the baby pegasus sleeping soundly. "Mrs. Abigail, you have anemia. The reason you had these complications is because your heart wasn't pumping enough blood to support both you and your baby. There is medication however, an iron pill once a day and you'll be fine. By the way, have you come up with a name for him yet?"
Both ponies just looked at him in shock; they had been so excited at the thought of becoming parents they had neglected to think of a name. Abigail was the first to speak up, "Not yet, but as soon as we know we will be sure to tell you."
Some techs had been kind enough to bring in a small cot for Rolan to sleep on so he could stay with his wife and child, as if he was going to let them keep him away from his family. He was so excited he couldn't sleep. Of course during the day, with the doctor coming and going he had been strong and stoic for his wife. He looked over at her now, passed out in her bed, the poor girl had an exhausting day. Roland decided he may as well try sleeping; he had a busy day tomorrow. Closing his eyes, he could hear the soft snoring of his wife, the low beeping of the machine holding his child. HIS! He smiled at the thought; Rolan Iron was officially a father! Just as he began drifting off he heard a sound.
Thud thud thud thud
These young ponies nowadays and their music, didn’t they know that some ponies were trying to rest after a strenuous day?
Thud thud thud thud
There it was again and this time it was louder. Rolan sat up angrily, he didn't want his family being disturbed after the day they had had. He cocked his ears, waiting to hear it again so he could inform a nurse or at least security. However, when he finally did hear it he couldn't believe the source.
Thud thud thud thud
It was coming from inside the room; the noise he had been hearing was coming from the life support machine holding his baby. Getting up and walking towards the glow of the machine, the stallion looked as if in a trance.
Thud thud thud thud
Gathering up his courage, Rolan looked through the viewport at his son. Instead of being asleep, the baby was looking right back at his father. Dark blue eyes meeting brilliant turquoise. He couldn’t believe it!
Thud thud thud thud
Looking down at his son's back, he saw that the wings were flapping, hitting the sides of the machine.
"Abi!" he whispered excitedly. “Abi!” Rolan trotted over to her, shaking his wife awake. Abi was not exactly happy about being woken up. Right as she was about to tear into him, she looked over and saw her husband with a goofy smile on his face, "Look!" was all he could say, lightly tapping on the machine holding their son. Leaning her head over, she gasped at what she saw. Two brilliant turquoise eyes staring back into her brown ones. That’s when she heard it.
Thud thud thud thud
Looking away from the baby pegasus’ eyes, Abigail saw what was making her husband so excited. Sitting there with his tiny legs folded under him, the baby was flapping his wings and they were hitting the sides, creating the thuds she had heard. "Sounds like a drum, no?" she asked her husband quietly. Rolan could only nod. He looked up and met the eyes of his best friend and knew immediately what she was thinking.
"Let’s name him Bass."
Over the years Bass grew into himself. After about three months Rolan and Abigail were cleared from the hospital and took their baby home. Over the next few months they discovered the art of foal proofing. Bass was a very curious baby; as soon as he was able to stand on his own hooves he started roaming the house. Rolan and Abi would come home to find him sitting in the living room surrounded by pots and pans, pillows, toys, pretty much anything he could grab.
When Bass turned five, like every pony his age, he started to wonder what his special talent was.
"When do ponies get their cutie marks?" he asked one night at dinner. His parents knew everything so this shouldn't be too hard of a question. All he got in reply were blank looks. His father merely pushed his plate back while his mother came and sat next to him.
"We had a feeling this would come someday" his mother said, running her hoof through Bass's mane. Rolan crossed his hooves and looked at his son, 5 years worth of memories running thru his mind. He choked back the tears, while his wife let them run freely.
"Your cutie mark is something you have to discover yourself," he finally said, "It’s that special talent that defines you and shows every pony just exactly the kind of pony you are."
Well that was obviously a no brainier for such a pony as Bass. Without even thinking he blurted out, "I want to be as strong as you and smart as momma!" Rolan just laughed and Abigail smiled, tears still flowing. Bass was confused. He had meant what he said. When his father finally caught his breath he walked over to his wife and son and put a hoof around them.
"How about this, you come work with me during the week and you help your momma in her store on the weekends, that way you can start seeing what you like and don't like." The look he received was like that as if he had just told Bass that his whole room would be remade out of chocolate.
So the next day Rolan and Bass went to the farm. Rolan explained what the situation was to the forepony, who just laughed and agreed, telling him that Bass was under his supervision.
Starting that week, Bass would wake up every morning before Celestia rose the sun with his father. Rubbing his eyes with his hoof, Bass started questioning his father, asking about the stars, the different phases of Luna's moon. Rolan patiently explained to the curious colt about the different constellations and moon phases. By the time he was done, they were at the farm. Grabbing his time card, Rolan clocked in, chuckling as Bass was starting to dose off standing. He gave the child a soft tap on his flank to get him moving. Bass was amazed by the amount of other ponies waiting to get started on their assignments. Before he could begin asking more questions, the forepony came out and read of from his charts. To bass it was just a bunch of noise, but he caught the words storm and weather patrol. Needless to say he was excited. He nearly jumped on his father when the loud work whistle went off.
Rolan made sure to keep an eye on Bass, working the fields was hard labor. He shrugged his yoke on, picking Bass up and putting him in his cart of tools. He poked his head up and leaned over the edge, hooves dangling. He listened as his father taught him about the different plants in the different sections. Rolan was in charge of five other ponies in this part of the vegetables. There were signs for pumpkins, squash, carrots, potatoes and others Bass couldn't recognize. Rolan also taught him the different tools used, such as the plow and the maintenance of them. That whole week, the father would quiz his son on the things he'd been taught while he organized and cleaned the tools in the cart.
Finally Saturday came and Bass was excited. He had been out in the fields all week learning about farming and gardening. His muscles were sore from it. He smiled though thinking that if this is what it took to be as big and strong as his poppa, then so be it. He had even got a few bits from his father for being such a hard worker. The colt ran to his room as fast as he could to put the bits in a pillow he had hidden with a few other things he kept as special memories. "Bass! Time to go!" he heard his mother calling. Today was the first day he got to help in the bookstore, and boy, was he excited.
He gasped when he entered. The store seemed so much bigger on the inside. He ran back out and did a lap around the bookstore. It was like magic. Abigail only chuckled, Bass had been foal sat until now. She went in while the child ran around and ran a hoof over the counter, smiling fondly. She went over to the record player and put the needle on the vinyl, static, then softly the sound of Beethoofen coming out of the speaker. Memories flooded as she closed her eyes. The smell of the books, then dirt and sweat as the brown stallion walked in.... "Momma?" a small voice asked. Abi’s eyes popped open as she saw her son in the entrance. She swore the door had closed behind her as she looked at the tiny bell that signaled a customer. She merely shook her head and smiled. "Ready to get started?" Bass smiled his biggest smile, eyes glowing in the dull light. Abigail felt like she could get lost in her baby boy's eyes. "What’s this?" he asked, standing in front of the record player. "A record player, hun, And this," she said pointing at the vinyl disc "is a record." The mare spent the next hour and a half telling the curious colt all about different types of music and the instruments that made it, all while straightening up and preparing to open the shop. She then explained to Bass about books, how some held stories, others instructions from things to cooking to as abstract as magic, and history. They didn't really need the shop, Rolan made plenty from working the farm, but it had been in her family for as long as she remembered and he was a loving husband. It was slow, so Abigail decided it was time for Bass to learn his alphabet, after all, he would be starting school that year.
And this was the routine Bass got in; Wake up while Luna was still out and head to the farm, working during the day with his father, then coming home at night to work on learning to read and write with his mother. The weekends he spent at the bookstore, helping his mother clean and organize.
When the shop was not busy he'd run to his chair. Rolan had moved a big leather chair to the corner out of the way and a small table for Bass to keep his books on. He loved reading old ponytails, battles between nations and seeing pictures of Pegasi soaring. He remembered the first time he'd come across the big picture book. Pictures of earth ponies and unicorns, armored clad Pegasi at attention, then on the next page he saw it; Two Alicorns with a legion of Pegasi behind them. Making sure he wasn't being watched, and more specifically his mom couldn't see him, Bass leaned forward, slowly stretching his wings out. This was something he had been doing since becoming self aware of the wings. Extending them as far as he dared the young Pegasus slowly started flapping, not enough to take off or even hover; just enough to feel the muscles used and even create a small breeze.
Closing his eyes, Bass imagined he was one of the Pegasi in his book, following the Alicorns into the sun set. Before he could stop, however, his wings fully extended, knocking down shelves of books. He was in the air hovering. Abi heard the books fall and immediately knew the area. Bass. She rushed around the counter, pushing the customer she'd been helping aside. "Bass!"She cried. Bass was too excited, He was flying! "Bass!" he heard his momma call. "Momma!" he cried out excitedly. Abigail heard her sons cry and immediately went into emergency mode, imagining the worst possible things. What she wasn't expecting however, was the sight of her foal 4 feet off the ground, and flying! She took in the sight of her son, wings flapping gently, bobbing up and down in mid air. It was more than the poor mare could take. She fainted. Bass saw his mother collapse and landed. His wings snapped shut on their own "Momma?" Bass got no answer. "Momma!" The stallion who was being helped looked over and saw the young colt crying and the unconscious mare.
That experience traumatized Bass. Even though his parents explained they weren't mad and were happy he was finally flying didn't help the young impressionable colt. After that he was home taught until Abi felt he'd be good to be in public school.
He sat behind his desk in the class room. Bass was in his fifth year of school and he didn't really have any friends. Sure, he knew all the fillies and colts in his class, and he was friendly with them but he wouldn't call any his friends. As the teacher started talking about the history of Equestria, he took his notes, but his heart wasn't in it. He was still off in his own world. He felt his wing muscles tighten from being stuck to his side. Shaking it off, Bass ruffled them. He still did his little exercises, but only at night in his own bed now because he'd sworn off flying.
"Bass?" he heard his name and looked around. "Up here Bass, come back down out of the clouds." Blood rushed to his face as he realized the teacher was talking to him. "Yes ma'am..." the ponies around him giggled at his 'reprimand'.
"Good, now as I was asking, what are the six elements of harmony?"
He knew this. His parents were good friends with the six ponies back in Ponyville who had saved Equestria on many occasions.
Speaking as clearly as he could Bass recited; "Magic, Loyalty, Honesty, Generosity, Kindness, and Laughter."
"Very good!" the teacher went off on the elements while Bass started reflecting again. He wasn't the biggest pony in his class, or the smallest. He was however the most muscular. Years of working with his father on the farm during the summer would do a thing to a young Pegasus. He even had his own yoke and row in his father’s crew and was paid part time. He knew all the different fruits and veggies his town provided, he could use and care for all the equipment and knew how to watch the weather patrol for signs of best to water and plant for harvest. They had approached him a few times, asking if he'd like to try learning their trade, each time Bass politely declined. Bass still helped his mother on the weekends. Her record collection much larger, thanks to him. He absolutely loved music. When he worked he would carry his CD player and a few different cds in his saddlebag.
The bell signaling that school was over brought him out of his reverie. The teacher was babbling on about the nightmare night dance as he packed his saddle bag. As Bass pulled out his cd player and head phones, he caught a glimpse of Summer Dew, an attractive young mare with a heart as a cutie mark, looking at him. Bass nodded, noticing her cream coat get a bit red as she turned giggling. Bass sighed, He didn't have time for dating; besides he was still too young, right? He pushed play, his favorite cd playing as his ears were immediately assaulted by the heavy bass. Dj Pon3, now there was a mare he wouldn't mind dancing with.
The cd ended right as Bass dropped on his bed. He sighed realizing he still had to run some errands for his mom after school. Looking around his room he took in his surroundings. In the corner was the record player his mother had gotten for his sixth birthday, the box of records tucked neatly underneath. Next to it was the desk. There was a wrapped gift on it. Looking at the calendar he saw it was his birthday. He smiled softly, taking the gift between his hooves he gripped the paper in his muzzle, ripping it off. He gasped at what he saw. It was his favorite book. Opening the cover he saw the price tag marked over and a quick note.
"To our little hard worker, never be afraid to spread your wings,
Love, mom and dad"
A tear rolled down his muzzle as he read it over and over, remembering that day. He shut it and knelt to the space under the boom box in his room. The pillow case having been upgraded to a safe now. He put the combination in and grabbing the three boxes. Opening the first he did a quick count. He'd saved up a little over 500 bits since he started working. The second box held articles from music magazines. He admired the pictures of the white unicorn Dj and the grey earth pony cellist. There were others but these were his favorite. The final box he opened slowly. On top was a family portrait, his father was right next to his mom and in her hooves wrapped up with just a tuft of white mane was a baby Bass. Unconsciously, he ran a hoof through his mane. During the summer he normally kept it short, but his mom insisted he let it grow out. Under that was a picture of Bass on Rolan's neck, tiny wings spread as seagulls flew by. The rest were letters from his friends in Ponyville and pictures with them.
Sighing, he put the three boxes back into the safe; double checking to make sure it was locked. After getting up, Bass stretched, unfurling his wings to their full extension. He had an hour before his mom would be home from the book store. Leaning a bit, he hit the play button on his boom box deftly with the tip of his wing. As the music started coming from the speakers, the young Pegasus took a second, closing his eyes as he let himself get lost in it. After opening his eyes again he began his afternoon ritual; 50 wing presses, 50 wing pushups, and sit ups for core. As usual, by the time Bass finished up he was tired and sweaty. Looking over at the clock he saw that there was time to spare to grab a quick shower before anypony got home.
A/N: So I have no clue what to call this chapter but if anyone can throw out a good idea I'd really appreciate it. Edit: Thanks to ChillaxBrony I've manged to come up with a chapter name
There's nothing like a hot shower to ease oneself. Aches and sores disappearing from muscles, worries of the day that seem to melt away as the hot water pours over your pelt. Bass was very much enjoying the luxury of just sitting on his haunches and savoring the feel of water running down his fur. He could hardly see due to his wet mane covering his eyes, and Bass was perfectly okay with that right now. His mind was blank.
"Bass, sweetie? I'm home!" Abigail Iron said loudly as she entered the house. She could hear the sound of running water coming from the bathroom, so it was safe to assume that Bass had finished his workout. She sighed, shaking her head. Both she and Rolan knew about his routine, and she wished there was a way they could get through to their son. Hopefully the special announcement she had for dinner would cheer him up a bit.
Bass groaned. He knew it would happen but he had hoped to enjoy his shower just a bit longer. "Oh well," he muttered quietly. Reaching blindly about, he finally managed to get a hoof on his towel.
He quickly dried his mane grumbling, "I can't believe I let mom talk me into growing my mane out." He'd gotten used to the length but still, it was annoying. Wiping at the mirror, Bass looked at the pony reflected in the polished silver surface. Dark grey fur with a mane as white as snow; the pony looking back had bright turquoise eyes. Looking down at the body he could be seen lean muscle, worked into shape from his time working on the farm. Stretching out his wings, the reflection mirrored his every motion as he shook the water from the feathers. "Hard to believe I'm not adopted" he chuckled at the thought; he looked nothing like either of his parents. "Dinner’s ready!" he heard his mother call. How long have I been in here?
Shaking out his mane and tail, getting them to settle just the way he liked, Bass entered the kitchen noticing both his parents with their saddle bags on.
“Where are we going?” he asked, slightly confused.
“Oh, just thought we’d go for a walk as a family,” his father replied. Bass merely shrugged, sliding his hoodie and saddle bags on as he trotted out the door with his family.
As they walked, Abi took the opportunity to question her son about his day.
"So what happened at school today?"
"Not a whole lot, talked about the history of Equestria, the Elements of Harmony, stuff like that".
"Sounds interesting, especially since you personally know the ponies that represent each of the elements," his dad chipped in.
"I guess, it’s just stuff I already know, so it’s kind of boring. Also the teacher announced that the Nightmare Night dance is coming up" Bass replied.
Abigail's ear perked up at that, "Any special pony you interested in?"
"Mooom...." he groaned in response. "No there is no filly in particular, though I saw Summer Dew looking at me after class today."
"Ooooh!" his mom squealed. Bass merely rolled his eyes. Rolan was chuckling at his wife's excitement. “Here we are!” he said after a bit. Looking up, Bass’s jaw dropped. They were at The Vinyl Emporium, the number one music store in Manehatten. He looked back at his parents as they chuckled.
“We figured since it’s your birthday we would get you some more CDs and a better stereo system for your room,” Abi said, walking up to him and giving him a gentle hug.
As they entered the store a small bell rang. The grey mare at the counter looked up from her magazine. Seeing as there were costumers she neatly folded it and trotted over to the family.
“Welcome to The Vinyl Emporium, where all things music resides,” she said with a smile. “My name is Octa----”
“Octavia Philharmonica!” Bass blurted out, cutting the poor mare off. “Sorry…” he said sheepishly, rubbing the back of his neck in embarrassment.
Shaking her head, the mare chuckled. “No worries, you just surprised me bit. Clearly you know who I am. It’s nice to see a young colt as yourself with such refined taste. So, how can we help you today?”
Bass wandered off after they had explained to Octavia the reason for their visit. Looking down the rows of CDs he bobbed his head to the track that was playing in the background. Bass’s wings twitched as he walked around, accounting it to the music playing. The further into the store he walked, the more his wings started twitching, and more in time to the music, he noticed. Looking around, Bass saw that he was almost to the end of the CDs and close to the instruments and speakers that were playing the same tracks. Curiosity overwhelming him, he went towards them.
Rows of electric guitars went by with his tongue dangling in awe. There were Les Paul’s, Ibanez’s, and every other brand of guitar imaginable. Bass suddenly found himself in a space set up where customers could try out the different guitars and amps. By now his wings were flapping along gently in time with song that was playing. It was actually an enjoyable feeling.
“Nice hoodie,” a voice out of nowhere said, startling him. Standing next to him was a snow white mare with two toned mane and tail and sunglasses that Bass would recognize anywhere.
“You… You’re…” he stammered.
The mare only grinned wider “DJ – PON-3 at your service,” she said with an over exaggerated bow, “but please, call me Vinyl.”
“Ohmygoshohmygoshohmygosh!” Bass squeed.
Vinyl let out a hearty laugh, throwing a hoof over the colt’s shoulder. “You’ve got a good taste in music, kid,” she said “what’s your name?”
“Um… it’s uh… Bass.” He replied in a voice to rival Fluttershy.
“Well Bass, pop a squat here,” Vinyl said as she led him over to stool. Once Bass was settled and balanced, she walked down an aisle, mumbling to herself. She came back a few minutes later, carrying a black four stringed guitar in her magic.
“Hold your hoofs out,” the white mare instructed. Doing as she said, he extended his hoofs out to the sides. Vinyl then lowered the guitar around him and adjusted the straps so the guitar sat comfortably on his frame.
“How’s that feel?” She asked.
Bass fidgeted as he got used to the weight of the guitar. Spreading his wings a bit, he was finally able to get settled where he didn’t feel like he was about to topple over.
“Different, but in a good way,” He replied as he plucked at the strings.
Vinyl grinned widely at him. “Ok then, time for your first lesson!” Levitating another guitar over to herself, she sat on a stool in front of Bass. For the next hour and a half, Vinyl taught him the basic notes, how to tune, and how to maintain the guitar. During that time he felt like he had died and gone to heaven; not only was he getting one on one time with one of his favorite musicians, but she was also teaching him how to play an instrument. But all good things must eventually come to an end.
“There you are!” Octavia said, “We were wondering where you disappeared to.”
Bass blushed and Vinyl just laughed, “Sorry, guess we just we just got carried away.”
“That’s all fine and well, but his parents are looking for him,” she replied.
“Ok, ok,” the white mare replied, “come on kiddo; let’s get you taken care of.”
Using her magic to lift the instrument, Bass moved his arms so it would slide easily. As he hopped off the stool to follow Octavia back to the front, Bass saw Vinyl walk off down another aisle look. Abi was the first one to see her son and rushed over to him, fussing over him for disappearing on them.
"Alright kiddo," Vinyl said, reappearing with a variety of items levitating in her magic. "Got your bass, amp, auxiliary cord, strap, case, and beginners book. Everything you need to get started."
Bass looked on in disbelief, "Um.... I don't think I can afford all that..."
"No buts!" The DJ proclaimed. "I know a musician when I see one. Besides, it's a birthday gift from me and Tavi he... Ow!" The white mare yelped fun a sharp nudge to the side.
"We would like to consider it an investment in your future, if you don't mind," Octavia interjected.
"Well..." Abi looked at Rolan. The farther only nodded in approval
"Really?!" He gasped, "thank you so much!" Bass ran over and hugged his parents, then the two musicians, grinning in excitement.
"However…" Bass paused, "you won't be able to start practicing until after we get back from Ponyville."
"Why’d you nudge me so hard?" The white mare asked, still rubbing her side.
"Because," the other mare replied, I told you that you can only call me that in private." Octavia sighed at the DJ's cocky grin. "Besides, are you sure about this?"
Bass couldn’t believe it. Right now, he was on the train from Manehattan to Ponyville. As promised, his parents had come in while it was still night to get him up so they could get him up and ready to go. As they were waiting for the train to leave, he thought back to the previous night:
Bass just sat there looking back and forth between his parents. “You aren’t kidding. Please tell me you aren’t kidding….”
“Nope, your mother and I bought the train tickets last week, and we’ve already reserved our rooms at the Ponyville Inn,” his father replied. What happened next went something like this: Bass jumped up and ran to first his mom, then his dad, giving them the biggest hugs possible. “CanIpacknowpleasepleaseplease PLEASE?!” letting it gush out without stopping to breath.
“Let’s see, I’ll need some bits in case I want anything. Oh! Also the book they got me. Um… what else? Hoodie! He hoofed thru his closet, looking for it when finally he saw it. The fabric was grey, much like his pelt, each sleeve near the top had a black music note, and on the front in blue and silver writing; Pon-3 . I’ve got to show this to Scootaloo! Um, I… mean the Crusaders!”
Putting the hoodie in with his book and bits he couldn’t help but blush. Why had he thought of Scootaloo like that just now? Sure he liked her as a friend, and she was a Pegasus as well. Though he didn’t realize it, the more he thought about her the more his wings flapped, that is until his head hit the ceiling. “Umph…” No he thought. Shaking his head Bass let himself plop down in his bed, sprawling his limbs out and closed his eyes. There’s no way he could like her as more than a friend, could he? And thus the grey Pegasus dozed off, dreaming dreams of a certain filly.
“Bass? Bass?”
“Wha- huh?” Bass woke up to being nudged by his father while his mother was calling his name. Looking out the window, he had to blink a few times to let his eyes adjust. Celestia’s sun was now up high in the sky. Even though the train was moving fast, he could see the shadows of objects. Using that, Bass guessed that was roughly close to noon. “Sweetie, we’re almost there.” he heard his mother saying as he groggily sat up.
“What time is it?”
“Close to noon,” his father said. So I was right. At that moment his ears finally picked up what the speakers on the train were saying.
“… Next stop, Ponyville. I repeat, next stop, Ponyville.” Reaching into his saddlebag, Bass pulled his hoodie out and slid it on, then throwing the bag over his back, he joined his parents in the hall waiting for the train to stop.
They were there, Ponyville, his home away from home. Bass was excited and his parents could tell, not only from his smile, but also the way his wings were twitching, begging to be let free. It was a clear day, not a cloud in sight. Bass was always amazed how similar yet different this town was compared to where he lived near the city. He liked it better here though, it was quieter and the air felt better, cleaner. Walking alongside his parents as they headed towards the inn, he could see the ponies selling their wares from carts. Carrot Top and Applejack were going at it about whether apples or carrots were better. Next to them was the sofa and quills store. I never can figure why anypony would sell those two things together. Further down the street was Sugarcube Corner. The building itself looked like a giant cake. Last but not least he saw it again, the building he'd spent hours reading in; the town library. The giant tree house was centered in the middle of the town. Bass smiled at the fond memories he had.
"We're here!" He heard his mom say as they stopped in front of Ponyville inn. "If you hurry up you can still go see your friends. Be back at the Sugarcube Corner at night though!" Bass barely heard the last part; he was galloping off to the Crusaders clubhouse. As he neared Sweet Apple Acres, Bass slowed down, letting himself catch his breath. Looking over at a nearby pond he checked himself in its reflection.
"Boo!" Bass fell face first, landing in the puddle that had only seconds ago been acting as a mirror for him. Sitting back on his haunches and shaking his mane out, he turned to glare at the perpetrator. Instead he was met with the three smiling faces of Scootaloo, Sweetie Bell and Applebloom.
"Don't you know it's rude to sneak up on somepony like that?"
Bass was glad that he had a darker pelt; it helped hid the blush that was on his face. The three just bursted out laughing, making him blush more.
"Ah'm mighty sorry Bass, we was just so excited to see you and wanted to give you a surprise," the yellow filly said.
"Y-yeah you should've seen your face! What were you doing anyways?" The tomboyish orange Pegasus added, still laughing. Bass was suddenly glad for the length of his mane, hiding behind it to prevent the three girls from seeing his embarrassment. The only one who looked sympathetic was Sweetie Bell. Shaking his mane in an attempt to look unfazed he tried to reply as coolly as possible, "I-it's cool. I was looking for y'all anyways." The three filled just looked at him, Scootaloo still trying regain her composure. "We just got in and there's still plenty of day before we have to be at Sugarcube Corner."
"Oh!" The three little ponies all said in unison. "In that case, Sweetie Bell had an awesome idea for us to try earning our cutie marks, you could help us out!" said Scootaloo. He knew what was coming next, and he barely had time to cover his ears, “CUTIE MARK CRUSADERS, BEAUTICIANS!”
One second he had been sitting on the edge of Sweet Apple Acres, now he was in Rarity’s Carousal Boutique. Sitting in one of the fashionista’s swivel chairs, Bass could hear them whispering and practically begging her to let them do what they planned, while occasionally glancing over at him. He was nervous, and for good reason. They wanted to try trimming and highlighting his mane. Not that he wouldn’t mind a few extra inches off his mane and tail, he like the dazzling white color of his hair. But he didn’t want to disappoint his three best friends, so he sucked it up. After what seemed like forever, the fashionista walked up to him, running a hoof gently through his mane.
“Are you absolutely sure about this, dear?” Bass could see the concern in her eyes. Afraid his voice would betray him, he only nodded. “Well then, in that case if you girls need anything I’ll be in the next room.” With that, she walked off, leaving him in the care of three overly eager fillies.
He had to admit, it felt good. Feeling as Sweetie Bell ran her hooves and a comb thru his mane getting the knots out was really relaxing. Applebloom applied the face mask while Scootaloo mixed the dye. They talked to him about everything from how school was to their latest adventures in getting their cutie marks. “… And then Scootaloo fell out of the tree tryin’ ta get her scooter out of tha tree!” Applebloom said as she finished telling how Scootaloo had been trying to pull off a new trick.
“Oh come on! I thought we agreed not to talk about that!” The other two girls broke down laughing. Bass couldn’t see but he could imagine Scootaloo blushing. She’s so cute when she blushes. The way her pelt gets just a bit darker… The sound of glass shattering broke him out of his reverie. “Is everything ok?” he asked. “Yeah, just dropped the dye let me grab some more.” After letting himself relax, Bass sat there and enjoyed feeling of the comb, hearing the occasional snip of scissors.
He must dozed off, because the next thing he knew he was being nudged awake. Bass knew something was off right away. “What is it?”
Scootaloo was the first to respond, “That looks so cool…” Sweetie Bell and Applebloom just sat there nodding in agreement. Were they blushing? Taking a second to access himself, Bass ran his hooves thru his mane. It felt about the same length, albeit being a lot lighter than he remembered. And what was this darkness he kept seeing? Turning to look in the full length mirror, all he could do was gasp. Looking back at him was a completely different pony. This pony had the same body and eyes, but the mane and tail didn’t belong to him. Instead of white with black highlights, this pony had two toned white and black hair. Turning sideways, Bass looked at his tail. It was the same as his mane.
“I look like Vinyl Scratch.”
.............
A/N: so here is the full chapter sorry for taking so long. Up coming in the next chapters will be more shenanigans, school dances, and young love. Thank you again everyone for comments and your support.
Bass couldn't say anything. The three fillies had worked hard and he had to admit the two tone didn't look that bad. Point aside, he was still freaking out. How had he let himself be talked into this? On the outside Bass was holding it together fairly well, if he said so himself. "Bass?" he heard Sweetie Bell ask. He turned around slowly and found his eyes locking onto Scootaloo’s. He could see her mouth moving, but couldn’t hear anything. He was lost in those purple eyes. It was at that moment Bass realized he couldn't be mad at them for what had happened to his mane and tail. No, more specifically, he couldn't be mad at her. So what was a pony to do? He did the only thing he could think of at the time.
He walked away.
<.@ .>
When he got back to the hotel Bass was glad his parents were out. Throwing his saddlebags onto the bed, he trudged into the shower, turning it as hot as he could. The water felt good as it ran down his fur. Closing his eyes and spreading his wings, the young Pegasus reflected on what just happened. However the only thing he could think of was those eyes, those brilliant purple eyes. Bass sighed. Whether it was a sigh of content from the water running over him or a sigh of acceptance, we'll never know. Finally deciding he'd been in there long enough he got out. After drying himself off, Bass wiped the mirror clean and stared at his reflection. Yes he did look a bit like Vinyl Scratch with his mane two toned, but with his mane styled differently. He had to admit, it was growing on him. I wonder what mom and dad will think. Looking at the time, Bass realized how late it was, and dashed towards Sugarcube Corner.
<.@ .>
Walking up to the bakery, Bass could hear the loud music and see the flashing lights. He couldn't help but chuckle, Pinkie Pie and her parties. Not wanting to be seen, he waited till a slightly large group of ponies walked in and snuck in with them. What he saw took his breath away. Banners had been hung all around the store, bearing the words HAPPY BIRTHDAY BASS! And as far as he could tell, most everypony from town was there. Before he could do anything else though, a bright spotlight was on him. "There he is!" Pinkie Pie. How she could do what she did, nopony would ever know. As his eyes adjusted to the light he could see the pink party pony on stage, and next to her, well, it could only be described as dream come true because next to her was none other than DJ PON-3. Vinyl Scratch in the flesh. And she was smiling at him! Bass could feel the blood rushing to his face as he blushed. "Let's get the birthday colt up here!" Pinkie yelled through her mic. Before he knew it Bass was up on stage between his idol and Pinkie Pie.
He was right, practically everypony was here. From his place on the stage, he could see his dad talking to Applejack, his mom next to Twilight Sparkle. Ditzy and Carrot Top were at the snack table. Rarity, Rainbow Dash and Fluttershy were hanging out on the dance floor. Even the Crusaders were there. He saw them smiling sheepishly when he looked their way, knowing it had probably been them who had tipped him off to the party pony. Bass felt himself jolted back to reality by a small nudge. Vinyl had her signature glasses pulled down just enough to where he could see her eyes, magenta, sparkling with mischief. Throwing a hoof around his shoulders she whispered in his ear, "Digging the mane and tale, bro." Pushing her glasses up, she gave him a quick peck on the cheek, making Bass blush even harder. "Alright everypony! Now we can get this party started!"
<.@ .>
His hooves hurt. That was the only way he could describe it. After everypony had sung him happy birthday, Bass had been passed from pony to pony. Some just chatting and wished him a happy birthday while others danced with him. He was currently resting at a table, nursing a cup of punch and laughing with the three crusaders about the earlier incident, i.e. his hair. Though the entire time he couldn't help but notice Applebloom and Sweetie Bell occasionally glance back and forth between him and the orange Pegasus. "Hey Sweetie Bell, let's go dance," the yellow earth pony dragged the white unicorn away, leaving him alone with Scootaloo.
"Everything okay?" He asked. Even in the dark corner, Bass could see her blushing.
"You think, maybe, we could talk outside?" She asked. He nodded, and followed her outside.
She led Bass to a small hill overlooking Ponyville. Even though they were a bit away, both ponies could still hear the music. When he looked back, he saw her looking at his wings. Craning his neck back, he could see they were partially spread. When Scootaloo saw him looking back at her she turned away, but not before he saw the blush deepen on her cheeks. "You can fly, can't you?" It struck him out of nowhere. Here was Scootaloo, the second most tomboyish filly he knew and now she was being timid. "Y-yeah I can," he replied. She looked back at him, meeting his eyes directly. Goddesses he could get lost in those eyes. "I wish I could fly..." She said quietly. Without thinking Bass scooted closer and wrap a hoof around her, pulling her closer. At first he felt her tense, but then relax.
"Bass?"
"Yeah?"
"Promise me that when you're up there in the sky, you won't forget about us stuck here on the ground."
"I promise."
After that, there really was no more need for words. She rested her head on his shoulder, and he rested his softly on hers. Wrapping a wing around her, he sat there and thought about what he had just promised. Both ponies sat there, watching the sun rise and enjoying each others company.
A/N: First off, sorry for getting this out late. It was originally supposed to be published last weekend, but due to a family emergency, everything got put on hold. Also, big shout out to ChillaxBrony for pre-reading and Halo003qd for going back and editing the previous chapters. As promised, some shenanigans were had, and next chapter, the much awaited school dance! Stay tuned and thanks for following!
The Nightmare Night Dance
So I'm trying something a little different this time by putting music in this chapter, with it being a dance and all. What I'd recommend is opening the song in different tabs and the playing them when you see the color cues.
When you see this, play Song 1 . This is Song 2 . This will be Song 4 . And this is Song 4
<.@ .>
Sadly, as is the way of the world, all good things must come to an end. That weekend for Bass had been one of the best he'd ever had. But with the coming week he and his family had to return back to Manehatten. Running a hoof thru his now two toned mane, he couldn’t help but smile; remembering the antics that had led up to it. At that moment, the young Pegasus was in his own little world, remembering how Scootaloo had felt against him, how the warmth had just felt so right. Saying that Bass didn't want to school would be the understatement of the century. But, alas, he must.
<.@ .>
Like always, Bass was the first pony in his classroom. Seeing as how he had time to kill, he pulled his hood up and turned up the volume to his player and snoozed. That is until he felt somepony tapping him on his shoulder. Looking up groggily he could see his teacher thru his mane. "Class is starting so cd player and hoodie put away, ok Bass?" Bass just nodded, sliding his cd player into his saddlebag and standing to remove his hoodie. He could hear the collective gasps and whispers of his classmates as he slid the fabric off, allowing everypony to see his new tail and mane-do. As he sat down, Silver Streak, a colt who sat next to him whispered, "dude, rocking the two tones, very nice." Bass only gave him a small nod as he started taking down the lecture the teacher was giving.
At the end of class, Silver Streak caught Bass as he was packing up his stuff. He was the closest thing Bass had to a close friend here in Manehattan. "Amigo, Summer Dew was checking you out all class." Returning his attention to his saddlebags, he fished out the music player, sliding it into the hoodie's pocket and slinging the headphones around his neck. "That's nice." Silver Streak just looked at him, a shocked expression on his face. "That's nice? That's all you have to say?" Bass just looked at him with a deadpan stare. "Dude, she's the hottest mare in school!" Before Bass could say anything however, said mare and her friend approached the two colts.
"Hey Bass, love the new hair," she said, initiating the conversation. Silver Streak, always trying to be the ladies man, spoke up, "Hey girls, what can we do for you today?" Summer Dew's friend giggled while she just rolled her eyes, continuing to talk to Bass. "Anyways, Cherry Blossom and I wanted to know if you and Silver Streak would be our dates for the Nightmare Night Dance." Again before the poor Pegasus could say anything, Silver spoke up on behalf of both of them, "We would love to accompany two gorgeous mares such as you to the dance." The two fillies giggled and blushed as they said their farewells to the two colts. Bass just shook his head in defeat as his friend tried to hoof bump him.
<.@ .>
To say Abigail Iron was excited when she found out her son had a date would not do her justice. She was ecstatic, and that's because right now I can't think of a better word. She had even hooked Rarity into helping design his ensemble for the dance. "Mom... Is this really necessary?" He groaned as his mother took measurements to have sent to the fashion designer in Ponyville. "Of course it is dear, your father and I want to make sure you look your best." Meaning mom wanted it and his dad was just going along with it. The dance was five days away. His mother would make sure his measurements got to Rarity by Wednesday so he'd have his suit by Saturday before then. "So who's the lucky mare?" She asked, writing down the last measurement. "Summer Dew," Bass replied, stepping down from the makeshift platform, "and she actually asked Silver Streak and me out for her and her friend." He had heard his mother squee (yes I said squee, insert choice pony squee here) but this was taking it to a new level. Of course she knew who Summer Dew was; her parents ran the farm he and his father worked on and Morning Dew, her mother, was a regular at the bookstore. "You two are going to make such a cute couple!"
As the days leading up came and went, Saturday morning finally arrived, bringing with it an elegant package addressed to one Bass Iron sitting on the family's porch. However, one Bass Iron was fast asleep, having the day off of no work and no homework. He had the whole house to himself and he was enjoying the peace and quiet. Eventually he rolled out of bed, quite literally, and landed unceremoniously on his back with a loud oomph. "Well that's one way to wake up," he grumbled. Shaking his mane into place and trotting to the kitchen he made himself a nice big bowl of frosted hayeeoo's. If you could see this in person you might have laughed, seeing a young grey Pegasus reading the morning paper while enjoying his big bowl of cereal. Once Bass was done he went out to get the mail, nearly tripping over the box. Luckily he had his wings to help keep him upright. It didn't take a rocket scientist to know what was in the box. Balancing it on his back and grabbing the rest of the mail in his mouth he went inside to get ready for the night.
Bass loved showers, the feel of hot water pouring over his wings, sending tingling sensations thru his spine, the way his mane matted over his eyes, giving him his own world. Yes, Bass loved showers, and took them every chance he got. The reason for taking particularly long in this one was to make sure every part of him was clean for tonight. Finally having to leave the gloriously steaming sanctuary, Bass walked out to the living room, where his parents were waiting to help him get ready. His mom already had his clothes out on the table. He couldn't help but laugh, for Rarity, in her mighty wisdom, had made his vest match his hair. It was black and white with a black tie. Sliding it on, he savored the silk sliding against his fur. There were two holes for him to slide his wings thru, and of course, hooflinks. Bass had to admit, he looked good.
<.@ .>
It was time. Silver Streak had agreed to meet Bass outside of the school gym so they could meet their respective dates together. And he was late. Now Bass wasn't picky when it came to schedules, but he was nervous, and didn't want to have to deal with the two young mares alone. "What's up my man?" Said a voice off to his side. Turning to look at his friend, Bass saw that he was wearing a silver vest and bowtie that actually managed to offset his white coat quite well. "You're late," Bass said, shaking his mane out of his eyes for about the third time. His mother had wanted to slick it back, but luckily he had convinced her otherwise. "Aw c’mon man, don't be like that," Silver said, giving him a light punch to the shoulder. "Besides, here comes our dates."
Sure enough as Bass turned around, Summer and Cherry were walking up. He heard his friend let out a low whistle at the sight before them. Cherry's dress was modest, a light peach that contrasted her cherry colored fur, accenting her magenta eyes. Summer however, had gone more for sexy. Her dress was black, hugging her curves and flank, her silver fur and blue eyes really sticking out. "Well what do you think?" She asked, twirling in front of him. "Um... Wow." Was all he could get out. She smiled shyly, giggling at his stumbling. "Let's go in shall we?" The mares went in first and then Bass and Silver. Was it him or was she shaking her flank even more than usually? They were greeted by the sound of other ponies talking and the dull sound of music coming from the gym. They could see their classmates and ponies from other classes as well. Bass eventually lost count of the number of ponies who came up and complimented him and Summer Dew in their outfits and how well they matched. Deciding that she had enough of just chatting, Bass felt his hoof grabbed as he was dragged into the gym/dance floor. How do I keep getting myself into these situations?
The song playing had a nice beat to it. He could see his date in front of him, smiling at him as she moved to the music. "Come on, dance with me!" She yelled over the music, smiling sultry at him (yes, even young mares know how to be seductive). Bobbing his head to the music, he swayed, keeping up with his partner in time to the music. Looking over Bass could see his friend and date dancing just a few feet away, smiling and having a good time. The next song transitioned into a slow one. Ponies got close to their dates and started swaying back and forth. Bass could feel his date closing the distance, her flank touching his and tails entwining. He was blushing furiously. Luckily, he was saved by the next song. It was a fast one, and as soon as everypony heard it they yelled in excitement. This time Bass threw caution to the wind and lost himself to the music. He was aware of Sumner Dew dancing right next to him, really close to.
The night drew on. Songs played and ponies danced. The smell of sweat, cologne, and perfume intermingled in the crowd but nopony cared. Bass was getting tired. There were a couple of dances where he and Summer sat out to catch their breaths and rehydrate. Silver Streak plopped down next to him, breathing heavily from dancing nonstop.
"Whew! I'm exhausted!"
As is tradition for most school dances, the last few songs that were played were slow songs. Bass was still nervous about being so close to his date, but as the night had gone on he had consigned himself to it. However, this time was different. Summer Dew had her head on his shoulder as they danced. It was a more intimate position then he was used to.
"Bass?" The sound of his date's voice brought him back to awareness.
<.@ .>
A/N: Good God doing all the linking was a pain in my flank! Anyways, hope you all enjoy this chapter. If you haven't seen my latest blog, I'm taking a small break from this story to work on my others and a collab piece I'm doing. Anyways, thank you everyone for making this story so much fun for me, I look forward to coming back to it!