How About An Encore?by GunfStepChaptersSoundcheckThe ShowAn EncoreSoundcheckAuthor's Note I write in order to listen. The two are intertwined. Can't have one without the other. No words come out otherwise. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SrR5whMTICI Soundcheck “Fuuuuucking Hell…” You were expecting it to be busy, but you’re honestly surprised at how many ponies are present. If you didn’t know any better, you would swear half of Manehattan has shown up for Vinyl’s gig. Which, you're genuinely proud of. Girl deserves it. Vinyl has been your friend for the better part of three years, and you’ve gotten to know each other incredibly well during that time. You remember first bumping into her, or rather… hearing her as you wandered ponyville one day. The electric flow of noise coming out of her headphones caused you to approach and ask for a listen, the kind of music you thought she might be listening to was rare in Equestria, and you wanted to know where you could find some. She smiled and handed her headphones over to you, and as you drew them over your ears, your eyes lit up; the rhythm, the flow, the thumping bassline. It was everything your life had been missing. And as your eyes fell on her, her grin confirmed one thing. You two were going to be fast friends. From that day on, you two met regularly, her discussing the latest music trends, and you giving her as much info as you could on some of your own music from back home. You had nearly lost it when she mentioned she was responsible for close to half the beats you were now regularly listening to, and hearing her regale her experiences at different venues and shows only heightened how much respect you already had for her. She was one of really, only a handful of DJ’s around Equestria. And unfortunately, Ponyville wasn’t exactly destination number one on the club scene. Vinyl traveled a lot. Canterlot, Las Pegasus, Fillydelphia; there were a lot of gigs in the bigger cities of Equestria, and while she didn’t accept all of them, she was still in and out of her home in Ponyville. After an extended trip to the Crystal Empire (Cadence and Shining Armor apparently being more “with it” than other royalty), she mentioned how tough it could get to be away for days, sometimes weeks at a time, traveling from city to city to put on back to back shows. Sensing the unspoken hint, you offered to go with her on her next trip, provided you could get the time off. You nearly couldn’t make it though, on account of having the life nearly squeezed out of you by Vinyl’s unexpected hug. Sure enough, the next trip was a big one. Vinyl had been asked to play at the Chaos Theater in Manehattan. One of the biggest DJ scenes around. Lucky for both of you, you were able to get the time off. The two of you had arrived in Manehattan the day of, and, after helping unload all her gear into the venue, Vinyl asked you to check on the hotel she booked to make sure things were good there, and avoid any complications after the show. Unbeknownst to you, when you finally did arrive, you found out that Vinyl had made arrangements for a single room. With a single bed. With a single, perfectly placed chocolate in the middle of two pillows. You were less than impressed. And also a bit flustered. You were going to need to have words with Vinyl about this. Muttering obscenities, your mind wandering through countless possibilities as to why, you left the hotel and made your way back to the venue. Which led to now. With you standing in front of a throng of ponies who weren’t here before. Staring at one of the biggest clubs you’ve ever seen. The pounding, raucous noise flowing out of the building is energetic, you can’t see inside, but you can hear the symphonic chaos as it seeps out of the building. Ponies in front of you are already bobbing their head to the sound of the final soundchecks being performed before the show begins. Shaking yourself out of your stupor, you head around the line and make your way to the side of the building, Event Staff pass dangling from your hip. One of the perks of helping Vinyl. You're stopped at the back door by a gruff looking pony. He gives you a grin as you approach. Brass Tack, a friend of Vinyl’s who’s helped out at a couple of shows she’s been to. Turns out Bouncers are as much of a commodity as DJ’s in Equestria. “‘Sup Monkey man.” You chuckle, “Sup Brass, mind letting me through?” “Sure thing pal, lemme see that badge though, gotta follow procedure y’know.” “I hear you, gotta make sure you don’t let any unsavory types through, yeah?” Laughing, he gives your ID a once over. “If that was the case, I wouldn’ta let Vinyl in here. You keep her in check for me will ya? I helped out at one’a her shows back in Fillydelphia, girl can get wild when she’s on stage.” Images of Vinyl flash through your head, it’s hard to imagine her getting too crazy. She likes to have her fun of course, but if what he’s saying is true, you may be in for more than just the good music tonight. You wish you had a camera. “If that’s true, I won't promise much, this is the first time I’ve had the chance to be at one of her shows.” “No shit? Well alright then. I’ll let you two get away with it tonight. On the promise you have just as much fun as she usually does.” You bring your arm up in mock salute. “You got it boss.” He chuckles. “Heh, no wonder she likes you so much. You’re just as bad as her.” “I don’t know if I should be offended by that.” “Don’t be, I mean it in the best way possible. Now go on, get goin’. I gotta stand here and look angry for the next few hours.” You hold out your fist and he bumps it with a hoof. “Thanks Brass, take care alright?” “Always do.” You head through the door, but are stopped by Brass shouting behind you. “Hey, do me a favor?” You turn to look at him. “Tell Vinyl, ‘Good luck with both shows tonight.’” You cock your head to the side. “Both shows? I thought it was just the one?” Brass chuckles, waving you away. “You’ll figure it out.” Shrugging, you turn and continue down the hall towards the Main stage. Several ponies rush by, shouting at each other as they check on equipment, lights, and monitoring. You try to shuffle out of the way as best you can, but are still given some curt stares as you mutter apologies, weaving between ponies. As you get to the end of the hall, you round a corner and pull back a curtain, walking onto the main stage. It’s breathtaking. When you first arrived, it was just a big empty room. Now though, it’s exactly what you expected, and more. The only light comes from the stage and above, spotlights shining into the audience area. You can see the strobes and lasers, tucked into the rafter, patiently waiting for their turn to impress. The main stage has been elevated up five feet, Skirting panels and cloth keeping the messy underside of metal safe from audience view. Speakers surround the entire perimeter of the stage, huge and powerful. Short snippets of audio fly out of them, the sub-woofers set against the floor pulse as bass flows through them. You take in the sight, before finally settling on center stage, a single pony bobbing her head back and forth, headphones grasped with one hoof, the other adjusting switches and sliders on her mixer. You can see traces of her fur glisten slightly against the light, no doubt from the heat of everything around her, and the work she’s put in over the course of the day. Her shades set to the side, you can see her eyes, focused on getting everything just right. She leans back, letting out a deep sigh. You find yourself staring, mesmerized by the sight of her. Vinyl Scratch. DJ Pon-3. Your closest friend. Its hard to hide your feelings of admiration for her. The work she puts into her music. The effort she spends creating some of the most bombastic tunes you've ever heard, and the dedication she has to making it perfect. The way she always puts you in a good mood, always laughs at your stupid jokes. How she always wants to see you smile, and goes out of her way to be there for you when you need it. Her gorgeous figure, the beautiful mane, her curvaceous flank. The way she booked only one bed. You sputter and cough, choking on nothing as you try and shake the thoughts out of your head. Vinyl turns and finally notices you, her eyes going wide as she catches you clinging to life amid the coughs, and runs over to help. “Dude! Your back! Why are you dying?!” She pats your back, and you ease out of your coughing fit. “F-Fine! I’m fine! No reason! Just swallowed wrong.” Vinyl chuckles, ”You better be fine. I can’t have you dying before the show even starts.” She pauses, frowning, “Don’t really want you dying after the show either come to think of it.” You flick her ear as she laughs, hopping out of the way of another swat. “Funny girl.” She giggles, sticking her tongue out at you. “Seriously though Vinyl, this is nuts. I can’t believe how much this place transformed, I was only gone for a couple of hours.” She smirks up at you, “Uh, duh? Dude, who do you think you’re talking to? I’m DJ Pon-3. Premiere DJ of Equestria? this kinda stuff is foals play to me.” You return her confident smile with one of your own. “Huh. Is that why when we got here, the first words out of your mouth were ‘Mother Bucker, how am I gonna set this place up?’” Vinyl moves to smack you, but you dodge out of the way just in time. “Whatever! I got it set up, and that’s all that matters.” She looks at you, a tinge of red on her face, “And you helped too y’know. So… thanks. It means a lot to me that you took time off to come help me out, I owe you dude.” Your own face goes red at the praise, and you scratch the back of your head. “Don’t worry about it, I wanted to remember? It’s not often I get to go to a concert anymore, let alone one headed by my best friend.” “Yeah… friend… Hey, listen, do you think maybe, after the show we could...” You look down, and for a split second you can see the hint of a frown forming, but it's gone just as fast as she shakes her head. “Never mind, come over here and gimme a hand with some last minute prep.” You’re about to ask what was wrong, but the thought floats away from you as Vinyl speaks up. “Hey, watch your step around the cables, last thing we want is to accidentally trip or disconnect something.” You look down and notice the taped down snake cable winding around the stage. Looking up at her, you lift one foot up, exaggerating the motion and slowly lifting your leg higher than you need to, and slowly setting it down on the other side. Vinyl gives you a deadpan stare as you repeat the process for the other leg. “Think I nailed it. Thanks for the warning.” You wink, smiling broadly at her. Her expression falters as a grin forms, and she bumps against you with her flank. “Smart ass.” “Hey, I learned it from you.” “And don’t forget it, now grab that Mic, I need to make sure the level’s good on it.” “Yes ma’am.” As you bend down to grab the Microphone, you remember the hotel. “Hey, I gotta ask you something.” Now back at her table, Vinyl doesn’t look up as she responds. “Whats up?” You tap at the Mic, and hear a faint echo of it in the open hall. “Back at the hotel. What’s up with the bed situation?” Vinyl suddenly jerks, twisting a knob violently, and the tapping from the mic suddenly explodes through the speakers, echoing throughout the entire building. Several ponies come out from behind the curtain and look in, checking to make sure everything's OK. Vinyl waves them off, readjusting the dial. “Uh… yeah, about that.” She fumbles with the controls a bit before looking up to meet your gaze. “I figured it’d be cheaper, y’know? Cut costs and all that.” You frown, “Really? Vinyl, I told you I didn’t mind paying for a room. I can go back if you want and-” “NO!” She shouts, taking you by surprise. “It’s… not just that...” You stare at her, and can see the blush forming on her face. You watch as she plays with the knobs on her mixer, occasionally glancing up before looking back down again. The usually confident DJ hesitates before speaking. “I figured, y’know. I don’t really get to hang out with someone after a show, since I’m usually flying solo on these gigs. I thought it’d be cool if we could just crash and chill when it was done?” She looks up at you hopefully, her eyes piercing into you. “Oh… geez. I’m sorry Vinyl, I didn’t even think… Of course. I’m totally down for that!” Her demeanor immediately shifts, but the blush remains etched into her features. “Great! Trust me, tonight's gonna be bucking wild!” You chuckle at her enthusiasm, and once again, the two of you are back to work making last minute preparations. One of you woefully under prepared for just how “Wild” the night was going to get. The ShowAuthor's Note It's amazing what the whiskey can push outta your mind. What I thought was going to be a shorter chapter ended up even longer. Ah well, So it goes. For your listening pleasure. And what I enjoyed as I wrote. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hK1NLoFpamw (Holy shit a new album?) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VqtDIMn0EGw (Do not sleep on this) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bWjgU3QQW8o (Vinyls tribute song) The Show You find yourself surrounded by ponies. All of them talking amongst themselves, some discussing the latest musical influences, others wondering what songs are going to play tonight, some even wondering if DJ-Pon-3 is going to crowd surf again. That last one got a chuckle out of you. Looks like Brass Tack wasn’t joking about Vinyl’s attitude during a show. Regardless, the hall is full of noise, ponies intent on killing time until the show begins. Which, if you recall, will be happening in just a few minutes. After helping her with the final adjustments, Vinyl asked you to head out and get a spot in the middle of the crowd. This was your first Equestrian Concert, and she expected you to be a part of it the way it was intended. Bumping and bouncing with every other pony out there. So you found yourself in the middle of the audience, waiting, along with every other pony here, for the show to begin. “Well hello there handsome.” A form bumps into your side, and you reflexively move out of the way of a red earth pony mare, offering an apology. “Oh geez, sorry.” Another bump, the other side. One more voice. “No need for apologies, good lookin’.” A green unicorn giggles as you turn. “Oh… alright then. Sorry… er… sorry.” You fumble words. The sudden attention has you at a loss. This is more conversation you’ve had with strangers than you can remember. Especially ones this… forward? Is what you're thinking is happening, happening? “He’s cute when he’s flustered.” The words flutter into your ear, and you jump, spinning behind you to confront the blue pegasus that was hovering near your head. All three softly chuckle as you blush. “Right… uh. Can I help you ladies then?” “Oh I should hope so.” The unicorn speaks, looking towards her earthbound friend. “Oh my yes, you see, we’ve been terribly bored waiting for the show to start, and figured we could do with some entertainment while we wait for the… entertainment.” The pegasus flies up towards you, a sly grin on her face. “And you’re the most interesting guy around, considerin’ you’re like, one of a kind in here.” She floats to the ground, landing between her two friends. “So? Whadya say? Wanna keep us entertained?” Your eyes move between the three, trying to get a read on them. Each one is looking up at you expectantly, all grinning. Lidded eyes waiting for an answer. And as you open your mouth to speak, Your vision fades away as the lights go out. Every voice in the theater falls quiet. A heartbeat, two, and then. The music starts. And the audience erupts. A steady electric note fills the theater, as lights start to come on, two at a time, slowly bathing the stage in a soft blue glow. increasing in momentum, the single note is followed by another as several more lights come to life. The stage becomes engulfed in shades of blue and purple. Lights from the rafters turn on, slowly dancing through the crowd, lighting faces, cheering and laughing as the music continues to energize the crowd. Gradually, a steady synth line joins the melodic hum, rising in intensity. Building as the two melodies join together, embracing one another, weaving through the crowd, teetering on the edge. The tension in the air is palpable. From center stage, you see Vinyl rise from the middle, a grin stuck to her face as an army of ponies all chant in unison. “Pon-3! Pon-3! Pon-3!” Vinyl smiles, and lifts a hoof into the air. Slowly, methodically, the music hits its peak, and lingers achingly. Before finally breaking, as Vinyl slams her hoof down, and a quick, heavy beat punches its way through the crowd. The theater explodes in a euphony of sound and color. Multi-colored lights sway rhythmically through the audience, bouncing into each other, competing against the sounds of the subwoofers that flare as throbbing bass pounds through them. Strobes and Lasers shoot through the air, disappearing and reappearing as each note guides them in and out of existence. You’re not sure what's louder, the music or the crowd. A piercing cry rushes through your ear, and you wince, turning to see the Pegasus mare you were speaking with, now enthralled by the stage. “I LOVE YOU PON-3!” “YOU’RE SO GOOD!” “LET ME TOUCH YOUR FACE!” You stare at the three mares who, just moments ago were so interested in you, are now completely lost to Vinyl’s music. A smile forms on your face as you look up, watching her as she jumps with the crowd, feeding off their energy. She waves at ponies, egging them on, and as she does, you can see her face turn towards your area, you can’t be sure, but you think she might have spotted you. You wave toward the stage, and instantly, a hoof points directly at you. Laughing, you jump up and down, in time with the beat. The track starts to wind down, and instantly Vinyl is back at her station, mixing and flipping into a new set. “HELLOOOOO MANEHATTAN, HOW WE ALL DOING TONIGHT?!” The beat shifts, and the crowd erupts into applause. “PERFECT! I’M GONNA NEED YOU TO KEEP THAT ENERGY UP FOR AS LONG AS YOU CAN BECAUSE I DON'T STOP UNTIL YOU DO! ALRIGHT?!” Another explosion of noise, and new rhythm is pumped into the crowd. And as you watch Vinyl work her magic, you can’t help but smile as you become just another fan in the roaring crowd. It’s hard to tell, but you think half the set has gone through. Amid the lights, music, and screaming yourself hoarse, it’s hard to keep track of time. But as another track begins to die down, Vinyl jumps back on to the Mic. “ALRIGHT EVERYPONY, I’VE GOT A SPECIAL TREAT FOR EVERYONE HERE TONIGHT.” The crowd, energy as high as it was an hour ago, cheers out. “YEAH I THOUGHT YOU MIGHT LIKE THAT!” As the new track starts, and the first few notes make their way through the speakers, the sound of it hits a memory that slowly forms into your head. “This next track goes out to a special somepony in the crowd tonight!” Her voice quiets a little as she speaks. The crowds excited cheers are interspersed with gasps of shock and delight. Wait… what? “You’ve given me a lot of inspiration over the years, and this next song is one you helped me with, gave me some ideas I never considered. Guess it helps you came from… a different worldview.” The music picks up, and you could swear you’ve heard it before. “SO! EVERYPONY! IT'S TIME FOR A NEW SONG! INVASION! LETS HIT IT!” The Beat drops, the crowd explodes, and you remember. Lazy weekends, the two of you lounging on her couch, sharing music and relaxing. Vinyl had been listened to you gush about your favorite musicians from back home, how they performed, the trends they set off, and the music they created. But she didn’t just listen. She memorized. Took it to heart, absorbed every word. And somehow, was able to recreate it perfectly. For you, right now. You can't help yourself. “FUCK YES VINYL! THAT'S MY GIRL!” You jump up and down, waving your hands maniacally in the air. She catches sight of you from her stage, and her grin shines bright against the lights. As the song progresses, you sway to the beat lost in memories of a time long thought forgotten. And then a voice makes it way through your ears. “You’re the special somepony aintcha?” Startled, you turn to find the pegasus mare from the start of the show now focused on you. “Oh, I do think you’re right about that.” You look down, and notice the red mare now staring up at you. “Now isn’t that a surprise.” The Unicorn circles around you, smiling coyly. “Now now, I wonder how THE DJ-Pon-3 ended up with a catch like you?” A pair of hooves drape themselves across your neck, a whisper amid the music flows into your ear. “Wanna show us why you’ve got the hottest DJ in the world in love with a man like you?” You duck under the pegasus mares clutches, backing away from the trio, bumping into another pony as you do. “In love? Ladies I think you’ve got the wrong idea. Vinyl and I are friends.” The red earth mare smiles. “Special friends, sounds like.” The Unicorn Giggles as the Pegasus floats up to you, wrapping her forehooves around you again. “Well if you two are just friends, how about you be OUR special friend?” She smiles, and slowly leans in, closing her eyes as her lips move to meet yours. You lean your head away, trying to avoid the oncoming affection. “Uh, look, I don’t think-” “FILLIES AND GENTLECOLTS!” A blast of energy erupts from the speakers as Vinyl’s voice echoes above the music. “I’D LIKE TO BRING YOUR ATTENTION TO THE CENTER OF THE THEATER, AND FEAST YOUR EYES ON THE TALL, BAFFLED LOOKING HUMAN!” The pegasus mare who was clinging to you pushes away, a blush on her face. “Oh dear.” “Seems we’ve caused a problem.” “Guess you’ll be leaving us then.” Each one of them speaks in turn, as every head in the theater swivels towards you. “THAT'S THE ONE! THE DUDE YOU'RE LOOKING AT IS AT HIS FIRST EVER DJ PON-3 SHOW!” The crowd cheers, and several ponies nearby stomp in approval, patting you on the side. “Welcome to the club!” “Right on man! Killer, right?” “You look weird!” The shift from embarrassing social interaction, to somehow even WORSE embarrassment causes you to smile awkwardly and wave to everyone staring at you. As your gaze shifts around the multitude of ponies now suddenly very aware of you, Vinyl shouts out again. “LETS GET HIM UP ON STAGE! I WANNA HAVE A FEW WORDS WITH HIM!” Your eyes go wide as an assortment of hooves make to grab you. Turning, you see the three mares who were so keen on you wave goodbye, and you’re lifted off your feet, suddenly crowd surfing among hundreds of ponies. In moments, you find yourself at the front of the stage, Vinyl waiting, a wicked smile on her face, and her hoof outstretched. You reach out, and with the effort of several ponies pushing below you, Vinyl hoists you up onto the stage. “Remember dude, when you’re up here, it's all about energy, don’t go embarrassing me now.” You chuckle, grinning down at her. Turning towards the crowd, you pump your fists into the air and bounce on the spot to the rhythm of the music. The crowd roars in approval, stomping their hooves in excitedly. You wave, continuing to bob along to the beat as you follow Vinyl back to center stage, watching as she starts working to lead into the next song. You bob your head to Vinyls recreation of your music, disbelief still lingering in your mind. “I can’t believe you were able to recreate them so perfectly.” She looks up at you, a coy smile on her face. “I told you dude, number one DJ.” “I never doubted it. I owe you one.” Laughing, Vinyl turns to face you. “Naw dude, you owe me two.” She nods her head towards the crowd, and your gaze follows. In the crowd, three mares are shouting and waving, frantically trying to get both your attention. “Oh… heh… that.” “Wanna tell me what they were doing clinging onto you like that?” You shrug, watching as Vinyl continues her work. “They thought we were together, and when I said we were just friends, they started to get a bit more… comfortable, I guess.” Vinyl barks out a laugh. “HA! Who would’a thought you’d be getting hit on at your first concert! Sorry dude.” You shake your head. “Eh, I wouldn’t worry about it, they weren’t my type anyway.” “So what is your type?” You look, and Vinyl is staring at her equipment, adjusting levels. A new track pulses through the audio equipment, the crowd bouncing to the beat. “What?” Vinyl fidgets, it's hard to tell with the lights reflecting and bouncing, but you could swear she was blushing. “Your type. What is it?” You pause. Taking a moment to think. Was she...? “Someone who shares the same kinda tastes as I do…” Vinyl looks up at you, and you continue. “Someone who can make me smile when I need it… and laughs at my stupid jokes.” The two of you share a chuckle. And as you look at her, you realize what your about to say may change things. But in this moment, with the music surrounding you, and the energy all around you, you press on. “Someone who’s there for me, and who knows, at the end of the day, I’ll be there for them too.” You pause, “Someone who I can call my best friend. No matter what.” At that, Vinyl turns away, a smile dancing across her face as she plays with her mixer, she turns to the crowd, and throws a hoof in the air. A chorus of cheers echoes through the theater, and doubles in intensity as you bounce along to the rhythm of the song, waving your arms along with the rest of them. As the track starts to die down, Vinyl turns to you once again. “We’re… best friends. Right?” You nod, turning away from the crowd to look at her. “Of course.” “And… we like spending time together right?” Another nod. “You even gotta ask? I’d be lost without you Vinyl, I can’t imagine anyone else I wanna spend time with more than you.” Vinyl bobs her head up and down, nodding as the next track kicks in. “Good… That, makes me feel a lot better about this then…” “About what?” “HEY EVERYPONY, CHECK IT.” Vinyl jumps onto the Mic again, shouting out to the crowd. “Y’ALL SEE THIS GUY HERE? HE’S THE ONLY HUMAN IN EQUESTRIA! ONE OF A KIND! JUST LIKE ME!” Another wave of applause sounds out throughout the theater. “BUT EVEN MORE THAN THAT! HE'S THE SPECIAL SOMEPONY WHO GAVE YOU THAT NEW TRACK! INVASION!” The crowd stomps in approval, heads and cheers focused on you. A shy grin forms on your face and you bow, waving towards the crowd. Vinyl watches you, grinning at your embarrassment, and continues. “BUT HE DIDN'T GIVE IT TO YOU FOR FREE! HE’S GOTTA GET SOMETHING IN RETURN RIGHT?” The crowd cheers, and like the start of the show, another chant erupts. “WHAT’S HE GET? WHAT’S HE GET?” You feel a tug, and find a glow of magic wrapped against your collar, pulling you towards Vinyl. “HE GETS THIS!” Her magic pulls you down, and before you can understand what's happening, Vinyl has grabbed you, forehooves around your neck. You open your mouth to speak, but before you can get a word out, Vinyl thrusts her head forward, lips meeting yours in a hard, powerful kiss. Surrounded by the flow of music, the feeling of her body pressed into yours. You surrender to the warm glow flowing through you, realizing in an instant how badly you had wanted for something more between you. And now it was happening. As the hundreds of ponies watching the two of you begin to understand what's taking place in front of them, a storm of cheers washes over you. Drowning out the music completely as they continue to applaud the newly formed couple. Vinyl breaks away from the kiss, her glistening eyes meeting yours, an unbidden smile forms on her lips, and you match it with one of your own. "Guess you do get pretty wild at your shows." She laughs. "Brass knows what up dude. Now lets give these ponies a show they wont forget." Vinyl turns, and her tail flicks up at you, swatting against your arm. "And after I finish rocking this crowd, I'm gonna give you your own private show later." She grins mischievously up at you, then turns back towards the crowd, bobbing along with the beat as she spins into the next song. Your mind races as it tries to process everything that's happened in the last few minutes. And as you put the pieces together, another memory pushes its way to the forefront of your mind, a small request from Brass Tack. "Tell Vinyl good luck with both shows." You look up and notice Vinyl eyeing you as she works, and a worried smile overtakes you. "Oh shit." An Encore“I’m still not sure this is even real.” You walk alongside Vinyl, making your way towards the entrance of the hotel. The show had wrapped up just over an hour ago, and, after packing most of her gear (with the help of Brass Tack, who was grinning like a madman at you both the entire time) the two of you had said your goodbyes to the theater crew and made the trek back. “I mean… did we really? On stage? In front of everyone?” Vinyl, for her part, is taking it much better than you are. She's had a smile on her face since you left the theater, and her step is even more energetic than usual. “Yeah, we totally did. You’re not weirded out or anything are you?” She looks up, genuinely worried. Shaking your head, you smile down at her, pushing the hotel door open to let her through. “No! Of course not. I just… This wasn’t what I was expecting you know? I didn’t have ‘confess my feelings in front of hundreds of ponies to the girl I’ve crushed on for the last several years’ on my bucket list, but I think I should add it on there just so I can cross it off.” Vinyl laughs, bumping against you. “It doesn’t count if you add it after the fact, you’d have to do it again.” She grins, eyeing you coyly. “But uh... crushing on me for years eh? That's news to me.” You smile awkwardly, shrugging. Standing in front of the elevator, Vinyls horn lights up, hitting the button for your floor. “Yeah well, I didn’t want to make things awkward, you know? Didn’t want you thinking I hung around you cuz you were famous and all that.” The elevator doors open, and the two of you step through. Vinyl chuckles as you finish. “Come on dude, I can tell when people are like that immediately.” She looks at you, and your heartbeat quickens at her genuine smile. “I knew from the moment you first listened to my music that we had something going on. All the time we've spent together just proved that my first impressions were right.” A glint of magic lights up your shirt, and you're pulled down to her level, your face meeting hers. “I guess... I’m a little annoyed it took this long for us to get here, but, hey, were here right?” You smile back at her, and the two of you lean in for a kiss. The elevator dings, and the doors part. In front of you is a grey stallion, eyes wide as he witnesses the two of you caught in a moment. He coughs awkwardly, and the both of you turn to meet his gaze. Pushing away from each other, you mutter apologies as you step past him. Briskly walking away from the elevator towards your room, you spare a glance back and notice the stallion eyeing you jealously. You smile awkwardly and give him a thumbs up, before turning to see Vinyl at the door, unlocking it. The two of you step through, and immediately burst into fits of laughter. The awkward situation vanishing now that the two of you were alone. “That guys gonna have a helluva story to tell his friends.” Vinyl laughs harder as you speak, leaning against the side of the wall she gasps out. “No ones gonna believe him! That kinda thing only happens in movies!” You try and control your breathing, fighting back another fit of laughs. As the two of you calm down, you make your way through the entrance area and into the main room. And it’s there you’re greeted with a familiar sight. A single bed. And the atmosphere has become decidedly more different since you saw it last. Vinyl walks forward, a small grin on her face. “So uh… yeah. About the bed.” You look at her, a lump forming in your throat as she walks towards it. “I’ll be honest. I wasn’t sure how I was gonna go about figuring this out. But uh… I guess I owe those three mares who were ogling you a favor. Guess I should find a way to thank them.” You breathe in, a soft chuckle coming out. “Yeah… well, I could uh… always try and track them down? Lemme see if reception knows where they are.” You pretend to leave, heading towards the door, but are stopped as a surge of magic tugs at the back of your shirt, forcing you back towards Vinyl. “Funny stuff dude, but I don’t wanna stop the party just yet. And I think you might want to be around when it really gets going.” You turn to look back towards Vinyl, and your breath catches as you take in the sight of her. Leaning against the side of the bed, Vinyl’s hind legs are crossed, her short blue tail lifted in the air, exposing her marehood to you. Magic surges through her glasses as she pulls them off her head, tossing them onto the nightstand. Her eyes, half-lidded, fall on yours as she wiggles her flank, traces of wetness lining her exposed cunt. At a loss for words, your eyes wander across her body, taking her in fully. Her gorgeous full mane, the curve of her back as she leans forward, achingly, inviting you to take a step forward. Her perfect flank, teasing you to feel it. “Vinyl, are you sure?” In response, you feel a familiar tingle of magic as your belt is violently undone, and your pants and boxers are pulled down, exposing your throbbing member. Vinyl grins, licking her lips. You watch as her tongue lolls out of her mouth, drool falling off the end of it. She pushes off the bed, walking towards you. “I’m sure.” Stopping in front of you, she lies on her haunches. “And I think he is too.” Without warning, Vinyl’s horn lights up, and you’re thrust forward, her lips opening as she envelops your cock. You let out a groan as she swallows your dick. She pulls back quickly, her lips trace your tip, planting kisses along the edge of your member before slowly sliding back down it. Her tongue rolls around your ridge, tracing patterns around you. You buck against the sensation, pushing into her as she swallows all of you, her head gliding along your shaft. As quickly as it had started, it ends, Vinyl pulls away, a soft pop as her lips push away from your cock. You’re left struggling to stand, knees weak, as Vinyl gets up from the floor and struts towards the bed, tail raised, mare juice trailing down her leg. Climbing once more onto the bed, she moves to the head of it. Her forelegs fall as she turns her head to look behind her, at you. She lifts her hind legs, raising her exposed flank high into the air. Her horn glows as the soft blue glow of magic spreads her marehood, exposing herself fully. “Well, you ready now, hot stuff?” The hesitation has vanished, your mind now full of lust. Quickly you push forward, climbing onto the bed and leaning in to immerse yourself completely in her lewd display. Your hands slowly reach out, pressing against her flank. She moans softly as you knead into them, enjoying the feeling of her supple rear. You move your head down, falling level to her exposed cunt. You take a moment to smell her, enjoying the sensation as it rushes into you, filling you with euphoria. Leaning forward, your tongue falls out of your mouth. Slowly, softly, you trace a circle around her lips, gently caressing every crevice you can. You pull back slowly, and breathe softly against her. Vinyl moans out, her voice a gentle reminder of who you’re with right now. You grin as you hear her, and continue your ministrations, your tongue tracing along her pussy, lapping at her juices as they leak out of her. “Please…” Her voice breaks, and you stop, you lean to the side, meeting her gaze. Her eyes are wild, desperate. “I need you.” Her mouth opens as a moan escapes her. “I need you in me.” Hands still grasping her flank, you lift yourself up to your knees. You squeeze her ass, and she cries out in pleasure. “Need me where?” You push a hand off her, raising it up high before bringing it down against her rear. Vinyl cries out, gasping at the sensation. “Fuck me! I need your dick in my cunt, now!” You can’t keep up your dominant act as she cries out, and you quickly lift your cock up to her leaking pussy, pushing against her entrance. “Do it, fuck me raw!” Her desperate plea pushes you past your limit, and you slam into her. The sensation of her marehood swallows you whole, and you groan in pleasure as she cries out in bliss. Slowly, you begin to rhythmically pump into her, filling her as much as you can. Vinyl matches your pace with her own, pushing against you as you grind into her cunt. “Oh Celestia yes, this is the bucking best.” Vinyl groans as you bottom out. Filling her entirely. Your mind goes blank as her pussy clamps down on you, tightening the sensation around your member. The pleasure overwhelms your senses, and in one swift motion, your hands fall from her flank, grasping her by her hind legs and lifting her into the air. Her back falls against your chest as you dangle her between your arms, and begin a clockwork pattern, lifting her up with your arms, and thrusting forward as you let her fall onto your rod. “HO MY GAWD YES!” Vinyl cries out as the new beat punches into her, filling her cunt with more of your member than either of you thought was possible. Her moans of pleasures are matched only by your groans of lust as you lift her up and down, rhythmically pounding into her cunt. “Don't stop, please don't bucking stop, oh my Celestia, this feels so bucking good.” Vinyl continues to cry out as you grunt into her mane, her head falling against your shoulder. She turns to look at you, and your eyes lock as you continue thrusting into her. Swiftly, she leans towards you, and you follow suit. The two of you lock lips, groans and moans stifled as your tongues dart out, dancing against each other as you relish the feeling of the two of you together in this moment. A familiar feeling overwhelms your senses and you break your kiss, Vinyl leaning against you as you pant. “Vinyl, I’m gonna, I think-” “Do it, I want to feel all of you in me.” She moans out as you push against her, filling her completely. The pleasure washes over you as you pour your seed into her, waves of ecstasy rack over you both, and a harmonious cry fills the room as the two of you cum, together. Exhausted, you fall to the bed, knees buckling as you hold Vinyl tight against your chest, you fall forward, tilting to the side so as not to crush her under your frame. Still locked together, she shifts, squeezing the final few remnants of your seed out of you. You shudder at the sensation, a moan escaping your throat. Vinyl gasps in pleasure as the final waves of your love fill her. Slowly, she leans back, head resting against your chest. You look down, and meet her gaze, a beautiful glow on her face as she smiles up at you. “That was incredible.” You chuckle, still breathing deeply. “You were incredible.” She grins, pushing herself into the crook of your neck. She breathes in, filling her nose with your smell, and you lean in, following her lead, relishing the scent of her. “We’re gonna be OK after this, yeah?” You look down, her face betraying a hint of worry. Closing your eyes, you bring your hand up, and begin to caress her back. “More than OK. You’re the best thing to ever happen to me Vinyl.” You hear a chuckle, and a tender kiss finds its way to your cheek. “Thanks. Guess I just wanted to hear it.” You lean down, and return her gesture, placing a soft kiss along her horn. “I… I love you Vinyl.” There’s a pause, a moment of realization as the two of you understand what's been said. And the words you hear back bolster the feelings you both have for each other. “I love you too.” The light of the morning sun pierces your vision, and you groan out in defiance, not wanting to rise. A soft movement against your side heightens your senses, and the flood of memories from last night rushes into your mind. A smile draws unbidden from your lips as you look down at the mare dozing next to you. “Mornin’ V.” Vinyl yawns, a hint of a smile on her face. Slowly, she looks up at you. “V huh? One day in and were already givin’ each other baby names?” “Well, I am at least.” She giggles softly. “Well, make it two then babe.” You raise your eyebrows. “Babe? Heh, that’s gonna take a bit of getting used too.” She lays a hoof across your chest, tracing circles. “Get used to it quick, cuz I’ve got a ton I want to try out Hun.” You chuckle quietly, raising your hand to run it softly through her mane. “Guess I don’t have a choice…” The two of you lay there, relaxing in each other’s presence. After a moment, Vinyl speaks. “You know… after tonight… I’m gonna miss you when you’re not with me. ‘Specially when I head off to my next show.” Your hand falls onto the pillow. A sudden pang of sadness washes through you. “Right… Well, I can always try and swap my schedule around. If you can let me know when your shows are?” “Or I could just hire you.” You look down at her, confusion on your face. “Hire me?” She shifts, pushing herself from her lying position, climbing on top of you to straddle your stomach. A glint of mischief in her eye. “Yeah! You can be my lead audio engineer. You know enough about my equipment and how it works, it’ll be easy. Then I don’t have to contract it out to some other dip.” You’re taken aback by the sudden offer. But, it’s not unwelcome. Doing work you're passionate about, AND spending time with someone you care for? Why would you say no? “Plus.” She grins down at you. “You can help me release pent up tension after each show, so really, you’d be helping me out twofold.” To emphasize her point, Vinyl lays down, her soft fur brushing against your chest. Her head falls, and she smiles softly at you, her nose inches from yours. In her eyes, you see the hope in them, the want to have you near. The choice is obvious. Leaning forward, you meet her in a loving kiss. Your arms wrap around her and she pushes against you more fiercely, wanting more of you. A moment passes as the two of you enjoy the feeling of each other's love. Breaking the kiss, you look up into her gentle eyes. “V, I think that's a great idea.” Her smile is infectious, and you return it enthusiastically. Her voice is quiet, soft, as she lowers herself to meet you once more, and whispers. “I love you.” “I love you too.” As she leans forward to brush against your lips once more, your mind wanders to thoughts of the future, and what it holds. Whatever it was, you know that the two of you could handle it. Together. Author's Note Again, a chapter explodes into a length I didn't expect. But this one makes sense really. Had to fill out the uh... happy fun times scene. And then I wanted to put a bow on it to wrap it up nicely. Here's one final song, a personal favorite of mine. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Bjq3hVcuH90 Hope you enjoyed it! The uh... reading bit I mean. ... And the music. Shits good dude.
SoundcheckAuthor's Note I write in order to listen. The two are intertwined. Can't have one without the other. No words come out otherwise. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SrR5whMTICI Soundcheck “Fuuuuucking Hell…” You were expecting it to be busy, but you’re honestly surprised at how many ponies are present. If you didn’t know any better, you would swear half of Manehattan has shown up for Vinyl’s gig. Which, you're genuinely proud of. Girl deserves it. Vinyl has been your friend for the better part of three years, and you’ve gotten to know each other incredibly well during that time. You remember first bumping into her, or rather… hearing her as you wandered ponyville one day. The electric flow of noise coming out of her headphones caused you to approach and ask for a listen, the kind of music you thought she might be listening to was rare in Equestria, and you wanted to know where you could find some. She smiled and handed her headphones over to you, and as you drew them over your ears, your eyes lit up; the rhythm, the flow, the thumping bassline. It was everything your life had been missing. And as your eyes fell on her, her grin confirmed one thing. You two were going to be fast friends. From that day on, you two met regularly, her discussing the latest music trends, and you giving her as much info as you could on some of your own music from back home. You had nearly lost it when she mentioned she was responsible for close to half the beats you were now regularly listening to, and hearing her regale her experiences at different venues and shows only heightened how much respect you already had for her. She was one of really, only a handful of DJ’s around Equestria. And unfortunately, Ponyville wasn’t exactly destination number one on the club scene. Vinyl traveled a lot. Canterlot, Las Pegasus, Fillydelphia; there were a lot of gigs in the bigger cities of Equestria, and while she didn’t accept all of them, she was still in and out of her home in Ponyville. After an extended trip to the Crystal Empire (Cadence and Shining Armor apparently being more “with it” than other royalty), she mentioned how tough it could get to be away for days, sometimes weeks at a time, traveling from city to city to put on back to back shows. Sensing the unspoken hint, you offered to go with her on her next trip, provided you could get the time off. You nearly couldn’t make it though, on account of having the life nearly squeezed out of you by Vinyl’s unexpected hug. Sure enough, the next trip was a big one. Vinyl had been asked to play at the Chaos Theater in Manehattan. One of the biggest DJ scenes around. Lucky for both of you, you were able to get the time off. The two of you had arrived in Manehattan the day of, and, after helping unload all her gear into the venue, Vinyl asked you to check on the hotel she booked to make sure things were good there, and avoid any complications after the show. Unbeknownst to you, when you finally did arrive, you found out that Vinyl had made arrangements for a single room. With a single bed. With a single, perfectly placed chocolate in the middle of two pillows. You were less than impressed. And also a bit flustered. You were going to need to have words with Vinyl about this. Muttering obscenities, your mind wandering through countless possibilities as to why, you left the hotel and made your way back to the venue. Which led to now. With you standing in front of a throng of ponies who weren’t here before. Staring at one of the biggest clubs you’ve ever seen. The pounding, raucous noise flowing out of the building is energetic, you can’t see inside, but you can hear the symphonic chaos as it seeps out of the building. Ponies in front of you are already bobbing their head to the sound of the final soundchecks being performed before the show begins. Shaking yourself out of your stupor, you head around the line and make your way to the side of the building, Event Staff pass dangling from your hip. One of the perks of helping Vinyl. You're stopped at the back door by a gruff looking pony. He gives you a grin as you approach. Brass Tack, a friend of Vinyl’s who’s helped out at a couple of shows she’s been to. Turns out Bouncers are as much of a commodity as DJ’s in Equestria. “‘Sup Monkey man.” You chuckle, “Sup Brass, mind letting me through?” “Sure thing pal, lemme see that badge though, gotta follow procedure y’know.” “I hear you, gotta make sure you don’t let any unsavory types through, yeah?” Laughing, he gives your ID a once over. “If that was the case, I wouldn’ta let Vinyl in here. You keep her in check for me will ya? I helped out at one’a her shows back in Fillydelphia, girl can get wild when she’s on stage.” Images of Vinyl flash through your head, it’s hard to imagine her getting too crazy. She likes to have her fun of course, but if what he’s saying is true, you may be in for more than just the good music tonight. You wish you had a camera. “If that’s true, I won't promise much, this is the first time I’ve had the chance to be at one of her shows.” “No shit? Well alright then. I’ll let you two get away with it tonight. On the promise you have just as much fun as she usually does.” You bring your arm up in mock salute. “You got it boss.” He chuckles. “Heh, no wonder she likes you so much. You’re just as bad as her.” “I don’t know if I should be offended by that.” “Don’t be, I mean it in the best way possible. Now go on, get goin’. I gotta stand here and look angry for the next few hours.” You hold out your fist and he bumps it with a hoof. “Thanks Brass, take care alright?” “Always do.” You head through the door, but are stopped by Brass shouting behind you. “Hey, do me a favor?” You turn to look at him. “Tell Vinyl, ‘Good luck with both shows tonight.’” You cock your head to the side. “Both shows? I thought it was just the one?” Brass chuckles, waving you away. “You’ll figure it out.” Shrugging, you turn and continue down the hall towards the Main stage. Several ponies rush by, shouting at each other as they check on equipment, lights, and monitoring. You try to shuffle out of the way as best you can, but are still given some curt stares as you mutter apologies, weaving between ponies. As you get to the end of the hall, you round a corner and pull back a curtain, walking onto the main stage. It’s breathtaking. When you first arrived, it was just a big empty room. Now though, it’s exactly what you expected, and more. The only light comes from the stage and above, spotlights shining into the audience area. You can see the strobes and lasers, tucked into the rafter, patiently waiting for their turn to impress. The main stage has been elevated up five feet, Skirting panels and cloth keeping the messy underside of metal safe from audience view. Speakers surround the entire perimeter of the stage, huge and powerful. Short snippets of audio fly out of them, the sub-woofers set against the floor pulse as bass flows through them. You take in the sight, before finally settling on center stage, a single pony bobbing her head back and forth, headphones grasped with one hoof, the other adjusting switches and sliders on her mixer. You can see traces of her fur glisten slightly against the light, no doubt from the heat of everything around her, and the work she’s put in over the course of the day. Her shades set to the side, you can see her eyes, focused on getting everything just right. She leans back, letting out a deep sigh. You find yourself staring, mesmerized by the sight of her. Vinyl Scratch. DJ Pon-3. Your closest friend. Its hard to hide your feelings of admiration for her. The work she puts into her music. The effort she spends creating some of the most bombastic tunes you've ever heard, and the dedication she has to making it perfect. The way she always puts you in a good mood, always laughs at your stupid jokes. How she always wants to see you smile, and goes out of her way to be there for you when you need it. Her gorgeous figure, the beautiful mane, her curvaceous flank. The way she booked only one bed. You sputter and cough, choking on nothing as you try and shake the thoughts out of your head. Vinyl turns and finally notices you, her eyes going wide as she catches you clinging to life amid the coughs, and runs over to help. “Dude! Your back! Why are you dying?!” She pats your back, and you ease out of your coughing fit. “F-Fine! I’m fine! No reason! Just swallowed wrong.” Vinyl chuckles, ”You better be fine. I can’t have you dying before the show even starts.” She pauses, frowning, “Don’t really want you dying after the show either come to think of it.” You flick her ear as she laughs, hopping out of the way of another swat. “Funny girl.” She giggles, sticking her tongue out at you. “Seriously though Vinyl, this is nuts. I can’t believe how much this place transformed, I was only gone for a couple of hours.” She smirks up at you, “Uh, duh? Dude, who do you think you’re talking to? I’m DJ Pon-3. Premiere DJ of Equestria? this kinda stuff is foals play to me.” You return her confident smile with one of your own. “Huh. Is that why when we got here, the first words out of your mouth were ‘Mother Bucker, how am I gonna set this place up?’” Vinyl moves to smack you, but you dodge out of the way just in time. “Whatever! I got it set up, and that’s all that matters.” She looks at you, a tinge of red on her face, “And you helped too y’know. So… thanks. It means a lot to me that you took time off to come help me out, I owe you dude.” Your own face goes red at the praise, and you scratch the back of your head. “Don’t worry about it, I wanted to remember? It’s not often I get to go to a concert anymore, let alone one headed by my best friend.” “Yeah… friend… Hey, listen, do you think maybe, after the show we could...” You look down, and for a split second you can see the hint of a frown forming, but it's gone just as fast as she shakes her head. “Never mind, come over here and gimme a hand with some last minute prep.” You’re about to ask what was wrong, but the thought floats away from you as Vinyl speaks up. “Hey, watch your step around the cables, last thing we want is to accidentally trip or disconnect something.” You look down and notice the taped down snake cable winding around the stage. Looking up at her, you lift one foot up, exaggerating the motion and slowly lifting your leg higher than you need to, and slowly setting it down on the other side. Vinyl gives you a deadpan stare as you repeat the process for the other leg. “Think I nailed it. Thanks for the warning.” You wink, smiling broadly at her. Her expression falters as a grin forms, and she bumps against you with her flank. “Smart ass.” “Hey, I learned it from you.” “And don’t forget it, now grab that Mic, I need to make sure the level’s good on it.” “Yes ma’am.” As you bend down to grab the Microphone, you remember the hotel. “Hey, I gotta ask you something.” Now back at her table, Vinyl doesn’t look up as she responds. “Whats up?” You tap at the Mic, and hear a faint echo of it in the open hall. “Back at the hotel. What’s up with the bed situation?” Vinyl suddenly jerks, twisting a knob violently, and the tapping from the mic suddenly explodes through the speakers, echoing throughout the entire building. Several ponies come out from behind the curtain and look in, checking to make sure everything's OK. Vinyl waves them off, readjusting the dial. “Uh… yeah, about that.” She fumbles with the controls a bit before looking up to meet your gaze. “I figured it’d be cheaper, y’know? Cut costs and all that.” You frown, “Really? Vinyl, I told you I didn’t mind paying for a room. I can go back if you want and-” “NO!” She shouts, taking you by surprise. “It’s… not just that...” You stare at her, and can see the blush forming on her face. You watch as she plays with the knobs on her mixer, occasionally glancing up before looking back down again. The usually confident DJ hesitates before speaking. “I figured, y’know. I don’t really get to hang out with someone after a show, since I’m usually flying solo on these gigs. I thought it’d be cool if we could just crash and chill when it was done?” She looks up at you hopefully, her eyes piercing into you. “Oh… geez. I’m sorry Vinyl, I didn’t even think… Of course. I’m totally down for that!” Her demeanor immediately shifts, but the blush remains etched into her features. “Great! Trust me, tonight's gonna be bucking wild!” You chuckle at her enthusiasm, and once again, the two of you are back to work making last minute preparations. One of you woefully under prepared for just how “Wild” the night was going to get.
The ShowAuthor's Note It's amazing what the whiskey can push outta your mind. What I thought was going to be a shorter chapter ended up even longer. Ah well, So it goes. For your listening pleasure. And what I enjoyed as I wrote. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hK1NLoFpamw (Holy shit a new album?) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VqtDIMn0EGw (Do not sleep on this) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bWjgU3QQW8o (Vinyls tribute song) The Show You find yourself surrounded by ponies. All of them talking amongst themselves, some discussing the latest musical influences, others wondering what songs are going to play tonight, some even wondering if DJ-Pon-3 is going to crowd surf again. That last one got a chuckle out of you. Looks like Brass Tack wasn’t joking about Vinyl’s attitude during a show. Regardless, the hall is full of noise, ponies intent on killing time until the show begins. Which, if you recall, will be happening in just a few minutes. After helping her with the final adjustments, Vinyl asked you to head out and get a spot in the middle of the crowd. This was your first Equestrian Concert, and she expected you to be a part of it the way it was intended. Bumping and bouncing with every other pony out there. So you found yourself in the middle of the audience, waiting, along with every other pony here, for the show to begin. “Well hello there handsome.” A form bumps into your side, and you reflexively move out of the way of a red earth pony mare, offering an apology. “Oh geez, sorry.” Another bump, the other side. One more voice. “No need for apologies, good lookin’.” A green unicorn giggles as you turn. “Oh… alright then. Sorry… er… sorry.” You fumble words. The sudden attention has you at a loss. This is more conversation you’ve had with strangers than you can remember. Especially ones this… forward? Is what you're thinking is happening, happening? “He’s cute when he’s flustered.” The words flutter into your ear, and you jump, spinning behind you to confront the blue pegasus that was hovering near your head. All three softly chuckle as you blush. “Right… uh. Can I help you ladies then?” “Oh I should hope so.” The unicorn speaks, looking towards her earthbound friend. “Oh my yes, you see, we’ve been terribly bored waiting for the show to start, and figured we could do with some entertainment while we wait for the… entertainment.” The pegasus flies up towards you, a sly grin on her face. “And you’re the most interesting guy around, considerin’ you’re like, one of a kind in here.” She floats to the ground, landing between her two friends. “So? Whadya say? Wanna keep us entertained?” Your eyes move between the three, trying to get a read on them. Each one is looking up at you expectantly, all grinning. Lidded eyes waiting for an answer. And as you open your mouth to speak, Your vision fades away as the lights go out. Every voice in the theater falls quiet. A heartbeat, two, and then. The music starts. And the audience erupts. A steady electric note fills the theater, as lights start to come on, two at a time, slowly bathing the stage in a soft blue glow. increasing in momentum, the single note is followed by another as several more lights come to life. The stage becomes engulfed in shades of blue and purple. Lights from the rafters turn on, slowly dancing through the crowd, lighting faces, cheering and laughing as the music continues to energize the crowd. Gradually, a steady synth line joins the melodic hum, rising in intensity. Building as the two melodies join together, embracing one another, weaving through the crowd, teetering on the edge. The tension in the air is palpable. From center stage, you see Vinyl rise from the middle, a grin stuck to her face as an army of ponies all chant in unison. “Pon-3! Pon-3! Pon-3!” Vinyl smiles, and lifts a hoof into the air. Slowly, methodically, the music hits its peak, and lingers achingly. Before finally breaking, as Vinyl slams her hoof down, and a quick, heavy beat punches its way through the crowd. The theater explodes in a euphony of sound and color. Multi-colored lights sway rhythmically through the audience, bouncing into each other, competing against the sounds of the subwoofers that flare as throbbing bass pounds through them. Strobes and Lasers shoot through the air, disappearing and reappearing as each note guides them in and out of existence. You’re not sure what's louder, the music or the crowd. A piercing cry rushes through your ear, and you wince, turning to see the Pegasus mare you were speaking with, now enthralled by the stage. “I LOVE YOU PON-3!” “YOU’RE SO GOOD!” “LET ME TOUCH YOUR FACE!” You stare at the three mares who, just moments ago were so interested in you, are now completely lost to Vinyl’s music. A smile forms on your face as you look up, watching her as she jumps with the crowd, feeding off their energy. She waves at ponies, egging them on, and as she does, you can see her face turn towards your area, you can’t be sure, but you think she might have spotted you. You wave toward the stage, and instantly, a hoof points directly at you. Laughing, you jump up and down, in time with the beat. The track starts to wind down, and instantly Vinyl is back at her station, mixing and flipping into a new set. “HELLOOOOO MANEHATTAN, HOW WE ALL DOING TONIGHT?!” The beat shifts, and the crowd erupts into applause. “PERFECT! I’M GONNA NEED YOU TO KEEP THAT ENERGY UP FOR AS LONG AS YOU CAN BECAUSE I DON'T STOP UNTIL YOU DO! ALRIGHT?!” Another explosion of noise, and new rhythm is pumped into the crowd. And as you watch Vinyl work her magic, you can’t help but smile as you become just another fan in the roaring crowd. It’s hard to tell, but you think half the set has gone through. Amid the lights, music, and screaming yourself hoarse, it’s hard to keep track of time. But as another track begins to die down, Vinyl jumps back on to the Mic. “ALRIGHT EVERYPONY, I’VE GOT A SPECIAL TREAT FOR EVERYONE HERE TONIGHT.” The crowd, energy as high as it was an hour ago, cheers out. “YEAH I THOUGHT YOU MIGHT LIKE THAT!” As the new track starts, and the first few notes make their way through the speakers, the sound of it hits a memory that slowly forms into your head. “This next track goes out to a special somepony in the crowd tonight!” Her voice quiets a little as she speaks. The crowds excited cheers are interspersed with gasps of shock and delight. Wait… what? “You’ve given me a lot of inspiration over the years, and this next song is one you helped me with, gave me some ideas I never considered. Guess it helps you came from… a different worldview.” The music picks up, and you could swear you’ve heard it before. “SO! EVERYPONY! IT'S TIME FOR A NEW SONG! INVASION! LETS HIT IT!” The Beat drops, the crowd explodes, and you remember. Lazy weekends, the two of you lounging on her couch, sharing music and relaxing. Vinyl had been listened to you gush about your favorite musicians from back home, how they performed, the trends they set off, and the music they created. But she didn’t just listen. She memorized. Took it to heart, absorbed every word. And somehow, was able to recreate it perfectly. For you, right now. You can't help yourself. “FUCK YES VINYL! THAT'S MY GIRL!” You jump up and down, waving your hands maniacally in the air. She catches sight of you from her stage, and her grin shines bright against the lights. As the song progresses, you sway to the beat lost in memories of a time long thought forgotten. And then a voice makes it way through your ears. “You’re the special somepony aintcha?” Startled, you turn to find the pegasus mare from the start of the show now focused on you. “Oh, I do think you’re right about that.” You look down, and notice the red mare now staring up at you. “Now isn’t that a surprise.” The Unicorn circles around you, smiling coyly. “Now now, I wonder how THE DJ-Pon-3 ended up with a catch like you?” A pair of hooves drape themselves across your neck, a whisper amid the music flows into your ear. “Wanna show us why you’ve got the hottest DJ in the world in love with a man like you?” You duck under the pegasus mares clutches, backing away from the trio, bumping into another pony as you do. “In love? Ladies I think you’ve got the wrong idea. Vinyl and I are friends.” The red earth mare smiles. “Special friends, sounds like.” The Unicorn Giggles as the Pegasus floats up to you, wrapping her forehooves around you again. “Well if you two are just friends, how about you be OUR special friend?” She smiles, and slowly leans in, closing her eyes as her lips move to meet yours. You lean your head away, trying to avoid the oncoming affection. “Uh, look, I don’t think-” “FILLIES AND GENTLECOLTS!” A blast of energy erupts from the speakers as Vinyl’s voice echoes above the music. “I’D LIKE TO BRING YOUR ATTENTION TO THE CENTER OF THE THEATER, AND FEAST YOUR EYES ON THE TALL, BAFFLED LOOKING HUMAN!” The pegasus mare who was clinging to you pushes away, a blush on her face. “Oh dear.” “Seems we’ve caused a problem.” “Guess you’ll be leaving us then.” Each one of them speaks in turn, as every head in the theater swivels towards you. “THAT'S THE ONE! THE DUDE YOU'RE LOOKING AT IS AT HIS FIRST EVER DJ PON-3 SHOW!” The crowd cheers, and several ponies nearby stomp in approval, patting you on the side. “Welcome to the club!” “Right on man! Killer, right?” “You look weird!” The shift from embarrassing social interaction, to somehow even WORSE embarrassment causes you to smile awkwardly and wave to everyone staring at you. As your gaze shifts around the multitude of ponies now suddenly very aware of you, Vinyl shouts out again. “LETS GET HIM UP ON STAGE! I WANNA HAVE A FEW WORDS WITH HIM!” Your eyes go wide as an assortment of hooves make to grab you. Turning, you see the three mares who were so keen on you wave goodbye, and you’re lifted off your feet, suddenly crowd surfing among hundreds of ponies. In moments, you find yourself at the front of the stage, Vinyl waiting, a wicked smile on her face, and her hoof outstretched. You reach out, and with the effort of several ponies pushing below you, Vinyl hoists you up onto the stage. “Remember dude, when you’re up here, it's all about energy, don’t go embarrassing me now.” You chuckle, grinning down at her. Turning towards the crowd, you pump your fists into the air and bounce on the spot to the rhythm of the music. The crowd roars in approval, stomping their hooves in excitedly. You wave, continuing to bob along to the beat as you follow Vinyl back to center stage, watching as she starts working to lead into the next song. You bob your head to Vinyls recreation of your music, disbelief still lingering in your mind. “I can’t believe you were able to recreate them so perfectly.” She looks up at you, a coy smile on her face. “I told you dude, number one DJ.” “I never doubted it. I owe you one.” Laughing, Vinyl turns to face you. “Naw dude, you owe me two.” She nods her head towards the crowd, and your gaze follows. In the crowd, three mares are shouting and waving, frantically trying to get both your attention. “Oh… heh… that.” “Wanna tell me what they were doing clinging onto you like that?” You shrug, watching as Vinyl continues her work. “They thought we were together, and when I said we were just friends, they started to get a bit more… comfortable, I guess.” Vinyl barks out a laugh. “HA! Who would’a thought you’d be getting hit on at your first concert! Sorry dude.” You shake your head. “Eh, I wouldn’t worry about it, they weren’t my type anyway.” “So what is your type?” You look, and Vinyl is staring at her equipment, adjusting levels. A new track pulses through the audio equipment, the crowd bouncing to the beat. “What?” Vinyl fidgets, it's hard to tell with the lights reflecting and bouncing, but you could swear she was blushing. “Your type. What is it?” You pause. Taking a moment to think. Was she...? “Someone who shares the same kinda tastes as I do…” Vinyl looks up at you, and you continue. “Someone who can make me smile when I need it… and laughs at my stupid jokes.” The two of you share a chuckle. And as you look at her, you realize what your about to say may change things. But in this moment, with the music surrounding you, and the energy all around you, you press on. “Someone who’s there for me, and who knows, at the end of the day, I’ll be there for them too.” You pause, “Someone who I can call my best friend. No matter what.” At that, Vinyl turns away, a smile dancing across her face as she plays with her mixer, she turns to the crowd, and throws a hoof in the air. A chorus of cheers echoes through the theater, and doubles in intensity as you bounce along to the rhythm of the song, waving your arms along with the rest of them. As the track starts to die down, Vinyl turns to you once again. “We’re… best friends. Right?” You nod, turning away from the crowd to look at her. “Of course.” “And… we like spending time together right?” Another nod. “You even gotta ask? I’d be lost without you Vinyl, I can’t imagine anyone else I wanna spend time with more than you.” Vinyl bobs her head up and down, nodding as the next track kicks in. “Good… That, makes me feel a lot better about this then…” “About what?” “HEY EVERYPONY, CHECK IT.” Vinyl jumps onto the Mic again, shouting out to the crowd. “Y’ALL SEE THIS GUY HERE? HE’S THE ONLY HUMAN IN EQUESTRIA! ONE OF A KIND! JUST LIKE ME!” Another wave of applause sounds out throughout the theater. “BUT EVEN MORE THAN THAT! HE'S THE SPECIAL SOMEPONY WHO GAVE YOU THAT NEW TRACK! INVASION!” The crowd stomps in approval, heads and cheers focused on you. A shy grin forms on your face and you bow, waving towards the crowd. Vinyl watches you, grinning at your embarrassment, and continues. “BUT HE DIDN'T GIVE IT TO YOU FOR FREE! HE’S GOTTA GET SOMETHING IN RETURN RIGHT?” The crowd cheers, and like the start of the show, another chant erupts. “WHAT’S HE GET? WHAT’S HE GET?” You feel a tug, and find a glow of magic wrapped against your collar, pulling you towards Vinyl. “HE GETS THIS!” Her magic pulls you down, and before you can understand what's happening, Vinyl has grabbed you, forehooves around your neck. You open your mouth to speak, but before you can get a word out, Vinyl thrusts her head forward, lips meeting yours in a hard, powerful kiss. Surrounded by the flow of music, the feeling of her body pressed into yours. You surrender to the warm glow flowing through you, realizing in an instant how badly you had wanted for something more between you. And now it was happening. As the hundreds of ponies watching the two of you begin to understand what's taking place in front of them, a storm of cheers washes over you. Drowning out the music completely as they continue to applaud the newly formed couple. Vinyl breaks away from the kiss, her glistening eyes meeting yours, an unbidden smile forms on her lips, and you match it with one of your own. "Guess you do get pretty wild at your shows." She laughs. "Brass knows what up dude. Now lets give these ponies a show they wont forget." Vinyl turns, and her tail flicks up at you, swatting against your arm. "And after I finish rocking this crowd, I'm gonna give you your own private show later." She grins mischievously up at you, then turns back towards the crowd, bobbing along with the beat as she spins into the next song. Your mind races as it tries to process everything that's happened in the last few minutes. And as you put the pieces together, another memory pushes its way to the forefront of your mind, a small request from Brass Tack. "Tell Vinyl good luck with both shows." You look up and notice Vinyl eyeing you as she works, and a worried smile overtakes you. "Oh shit."
An Encore“I’m still not sure this is even real.” You walk alongside Vinyl, making your way towards the entrance of the hotel. The show had wrapped up just over an hour ago, and, after packing most of her gear (with the help of Brass Tack, who was grinning like a madman at you both the entire time) the two of you had said your goodbyes to the theater crew and made the trek back. “I mean… did we really? On stage? In front of everyone?” Vinyl, for her part, is taking it much better than you are. She's had a smile on her face since you left the theater, and her step is even more energetic than usual. “Yeah, we totally did. You’re not weirded out or anything are you?” She looks up, genuinely worried. Shaking your head, you smile down at her, pushing the hotel door open to let her through. “No! Of course not. I just… This wasn’t what I was expecting you know? I didn’t have ‘confess my feelings in front of hundreds of ponies to the girl I’ve crushed on for the last several years’ on my bucket list, but I think I should add it on there just so I can cross it off.” Vinyl laughs, bumping against you. “It doesn’t count if you add it after the fact, you’d have to do it again.” She grins, eyeing you coyly. “But uh... crushing on me for years eh? That's news to me.” You smile awkwardly, shrugging. Standing in front of the elevator, Vinyls horn lights up, hitting the button for your floor. “Yeah well, I didn’t want to make things awkward, you know? Didn’t want you thinking I hung around you cuz you were famous and all that.” The elevator doors open, and the two of you step through. Vinyl chuckles as you finish. “Come on dude, I can tell when people are like that immediately.” She looks at you, and your heartbeat quickens at her genuine smile. “I knew from the moment you first listened to my music that we had something going on. All the time we've spent together just proved that my first impressions were right.” A glint of magic lights up your shirt, and you're pulled down to her level, your face meeting hers. “I guess... I’m a little annoyed it took this long for us to get here, but, hey, were here right?” You smile back at her, and the two of you lean in for a kiss. The elevator dings, and the doors part. In front of you is a grey stallion, eyes wide as he witnesses the two of you caught in a moment. He coughs awkwardly, and the both of you turn to meet his gaze. Pushing away from each other, you mutter apologies as you step past him. Briskly walking away from the elevator towards your room, you spare a glance back and notice the stallion eyeing you jealously. You smile awkwardly and give him a thumbs up, before turning to see Vinyl at the door, unlocking it. The two of you step through, and immediately burst into fits of laughter. The awkward situation vanishing now that the two of you were alone. “That guys gonna have a helluva story to tell his friends.” Vinyl laughs harder as you speak, leaning against the side of the wall she gasps out. “No ones gonna believe him! That kinda thing only happens in movies!” You try and control your breathing, fighting back another fit of laughs. As the two of you calm down, you make your way through the entrance area and into the main room. And it’s there you’re greeted with a familiar sight. A single bed. And the atmosphere has become decidedly more different since you saw it last. Vinyl walks forward, a small grin on her face. “So uh… yeah. About the bed.” You look at her, a lump forming in your throat as she walks towards it. “I’ll be honest. I wasn’t sure how I was gonna go about figuring this out. But uh… I guess I owe those three mares who were ogling you a favor. Guess I should find a way to thank them.” You breathe in, a soft chuckle coming out. “Yeah… well, I could uh… always try and track them down? Lemme see if reception knows where they are.” You pretend to leave, heading towards the door, but are stopped as a surge of magic tugs at the back of your shirt, forcing you back towards Vinyl. “Funny stuff dude, but I don’t wanna stop the party just yet. And I think you might want to be around when it really gets going.” You turn to look back towards Vinyl, and your breath catches as you take in the sight of her. Leaning against the side of the bed, Vinyl’s hind legs are crossed, her short blue tail lifted in the air, exposing her marehood to you. Magic surges through her glasses as she pulls them off her head, tossing them onto the nightstand. Her eyes, half-lidded, fall on yours as she wiggles her flank, traces of wetness lining her exposed cunt. At a loss for words, your eyes wander across her body, taking her in fully. Her gorgeous full mane, the curve of her back as she leans forward, achingly, inviting you to take a step forward. Her perfect flank, teasing you to feel it. “Vinyl, are you sure?” In response, you feel a familiar tingle of magic as your belt is violently undone, and your pants and boxers are pulled down, exposing your throbbing member. Vinyl grins, licking her lips. You watch as her tongue lolls out of her mouth, drool falling off the end of it. She pushes off the bed, walking towards you. “I’m sure.” Stopping in front of you, she lies on her haunches. “And I think he is too.” Without warning, Vinyl’s horn lights up, and you’re thrust forward, her lips opening as she envelops your cock. You let out a groan as she swallows your dick. She pulls back quickly, her lips trace your tip, planting kisses along the edge of your member before slowly sliding back down it. Her tongue rolls around your ridge, tracing patterns around you. You buck against the sensation, pushing into her as she swallows all of you, her head gliding along your shaft. As quickly as it had started, it ends, Vinyl pulls away, a soft pop as her lips push away from your cock. You’re left struggling to stand, knees weak, as Vinyl gets up from the floor and struts towards the bed, tail raised, mare juice trailing down her leg. Climbing once more onto the bed, she moves to the head of it. Her forelegs fall as she turns her head to look behind her, at you. She lifts her hind legs, raising her exposed flank high into the air. Her horn glows as the soft blue glow of magic spreads her marehood, exposing herself fully. “Well, you ready now, hot stuff?” The hesitation has vanished, your mind now full of lust. Quickly you push forward, climbing onto the bed and leaning in to immerse yourself completely in her lewd display. Your hands slowly reach out, pressing against her flank. She moans softly as you knead into them, enjoying the feeling of her supple rear. You move your head down, falling level to her exposed cunt. You take a moment to smell her, enjoying the sensation as it rushes into you, filling you with euphoria. Leaning forward, your tongue falls out of your mouth. Slowly, softly, you trace a circle around her lips, gently caressing every crevice you can. You pull back slowly, and breathe softly against her. Vinyl moans out, her voice a gentle reminder of who you’re with right now. You grin as you hear her, and continue your ministrations, your tongue tracing along her pussy, lapping at her juices as they leak out of her. “Please…” Her voice breaks, and you stop, you lean to the side, meeting her gaze. Her eyes are wild, desperate. “I need you.” Her mouth opens as a moan escapes her. “I need you in me.” Hands still grasping her flank, you lift yourself up to your knees. You squeeze her ass, and she cries out in pleasure. “Need me where?” You push a hand off her, raising it up high before bringing it down against her rear. Vinyl cries out, gasping at the sensation. “Fuck me! I need your dick in my cunt, now!” You can’t keep up your dominant act as she cries out, and you quickly lift your cock up to her leaking pussy, pushing against her entrance. “Do it, fuck me raw!” Her desperate plea pushes you past your limit, and you slam into her. The sensation of her marehood swallows you whole, and you groan in pleasure as she cries out in bliss. Slowly, you begin to rhythmically pump into her, filling her as much as you can. Vinyl matches your pace with her own, pushing against you as you grind into her cunt. “Oh Celestia yes, this is the bucking best.” Vinyl groans as you bottom out. Filling her entirely. Your mind goes blank as her pussy clamps down on you, tightening the sensation around your member. The pleasure overwhelms your senses, and in one swift motion, your hands fall from her flank, grasping her by her hind legs and lifting her into the air. Her back falls against your chest as you dangle her between your arms, and begin a clockwork pattern, lifting her up with your arms, and thrusting forward as you let her fall onto your rod. “HO MY GAWD YES!” Vinyl cries out as the new beat punches into her, filling her cunt with more of your member than either of you thought was possible. Her moans of pleasures are matched only by your groans of lust as you lift her up and down, rhythmically pounding into her cunt. “Don't stop, please don't bucking stop, oh my Celestia, this feels so bucking good.” Vinyl continues to cry out as you grunt into her mane, her head falling against your shoulder. She turns to look at you, and your eyes lock as you continue thrusting into her. Swiftly, she leans towards you, and you follow suit. The two of you lock lips, groans and moans stifled as your tongues dart out, dancing against each other as you relish the feeling of the two of you together in this moment. A familiar feeling overwhelms your senses and you break your kiss, Vinyl leaning against you as you pant. “Vinyl, I’m gonna, I think-” “Do it, I want to feel all of you in me.” She moans out as you push against her, filling her completely. The pleasure washes over you as you pour your seed into her, waves of ecstasy rack over you both, and a harmonious cry fills the room as the two of you cum, together. Exhausted, you fall to the bed, knees buckling as you hold Vinyl tight against your chest, you fall forward, tilting to the side so as not to crush her under your frame. Still locked together, she shifts, squeezing the final few remnants of your seed out of you. You shudder at the sensation, a moan escaping your throat. Vinyl gasps in pleasure as the final waves of your love fill her. Slowly, she leans back, head resting against your chest. You look down, and meet her gaze, a beautiful glow on her face as she smiles up at you. “That was incredible.” You chuckle, still breathing deeply. “You were incredible.” She grins, pushing herself into the crook of your neck. She breathes in, filling her nose with your smell, and you lean in, following her lead, relishing the scent of her. “We’re gonna be OK after this, yeah?” You look down, her face betraying a hint of worry. Closing your eyes, you bring your hand up, and begin to caress her back. “More than OK. You’re the best thing to ever happen to me Vinyl.” You hear a chuckle, and a tender kiss finds its way to your cheek. “Thanks. Guess I just wanted to hear it.” You lean down, and return her gesture, placing a soft kiss along her horn. “I… I love you Vinyl.” There’s a pause, a moment of realization as the two of you understand what's been said. And the words you hear back bolster the feelings you both have for each other. “I love you too.” The light of the morning sun pierces your vision, and you groan out in defiance, not wanting to rise. A soft movement against your side heightens your senses, and the flood of memories from last night rushes into your mind. A smile draws unbidden from your lips as you look down at the mare dozing next to you. “Mornin’ V.” Vinyl yawns, a hint of a smile on her face. Slowly, she looks up at you. “V huh? One day in and were already givin’ each other baby names?” “Well, I am at least.” She giggles softly. “Well, make it two then babe.” You raise your eyebrows. “Babe? Heh, that’s gonna take a bit of getting used too.” She lays a hoof across your chest, tracing circles. “Get used to it quick, cuz I’ve got a ton I want to try out Hun.” You chuckle quietly, raising your hand to run it softly through her mane. “Guess I don’t have a choice…” The two of you lay there, relaxing in each other’s presence. After a moment, Vinyl speaks. “You know… after tonight… I’m gonna miss you when you’re not with me. ‘Specially when I head off to my next show.” Your hand falls onto the pillow. A sudden pang of sadness washes through you. “Right… Well, I can always try and swap my schedule around. If you can let me know when your shows are?” “Or I could just hire you.” You look down at her, confusion on your face. “Hire me?” She shifts, pushing herself from her lying position, climbing on top of you to straddle your stomach. A glint of mischief in her eye. “Yeah! You can be my lead audio engineer. You know enough about my equipment and how it works, it’ll be easy. Then I don’t have to contract it out to some other dip.” You’re taken aback by the sudden offer. But, it’s not unwelcome. Doing work you're passionate about, AND spending time with someone you care for? Why would you say no? “Plus.” She grins down at you. “You can help me release pent up tension after each show, so really, you’d be helping me out twofold.” To emphasize her point, Vinyl lays down, her soft fur brushing against your chest. Her head falls, and she smiles softly at you, her nose inches from yours. In her eyes, you see the hope in them, the want to have you near. The choice is obvious. Leaning forward, you meet her in a loving kiss. Your arms wrap around her and she pushes against you more fiercely, wanting more of you. A moment passes as the two of you enjoy the feeling of each other's love. Breaking the kiss, you look up into her gentle eyes. “V, I think that's a great idea.” Her smile is infectious, and you return it enthusiastically. Her voice is quiet, soft, as she lowers herself to meet you once more, and whispers. “I love you.” “I love you too.” As she leans forward to brush against your lips once more, your mind wanders to thoughts of the future, and what it holds. Whatever it was, you know that the two of you could handle it. Together. Author's Note Again, a chapter explodes into a length I didn't expect. But this one makes sense really. Had to fill out the uh... happy fun times scene. And then I wanted to put a bow on it to wrap it up nicely. Here's one final song, a personal favorite of mine. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Bjq3hVcuH90 Hope you enjoyed it! The uh... reading bit I mean. ... And the music. Shits good dude.
