Chapters Chapter One: A Rough Start
The air was musky with the smell all kinds of alcohol and the sweat of ponies dancing to the rhythmic beats. Offensive sound thundered making one pony cringed as she followed her friend into the Celestial Lounge. A light baby blue earth pony settled herself into a booth and watch with an amused smirk as her friend settled herself across from her.
"Octavia, lighten up. After all it is your birthday and it'd do you some good to have fun," said Beauty Brass in her first attempt to get Octavia to loosen up on their marefriends night out.
"Beauty Brass of all the places you had to choose, you choose this horrendous nightclub filled with all of Canterlot’s low class ruffians, “snapped Octavia.
Beauty Brass couldn’t help but grin, to see Octavia to out of her element was hilarious. The proud, dignified mare’s unease at the prospect to having fun would certainly make this night interesting. As a waitress came and took their order Beauty Brass prepared herself for most changeling task ever: getting Octavia to have fun.
Their drinks came and Beauty Brass sip at hers respectfully, Octavia however look at her unsure.
"Come now Octy, it’s not that bad. Not as classy as the wines at high society events, but its tastes nice and it’ll get you tipsy soon enough."
Octavia glared at her friend, and then skeptically took a snip. With a sigh she grumbled "Don’t call me Octy."
Smiling, Beauty Brass check off step one in her mind, get Octavia to start loosening up even if it meant she'd have to get Octavia drunk first. The third round downed, it looked like Beauty’s plan was starting to take its effect on Octavia. The pony look more relaxed on her side of booth and could it be; a leg bobbing to the beat. Snickering internally, remembering the grey mares opinion on the clubs choice in music as a vulgar, untalented, blasphemous excuse to be called music.
Looking over her shoulder, Beauty Brass saw the haggle of all colored ponies dancing, then like a lightning bolt to her brain an idea pop into her brain. Step two: time to get the inebriated Octavia to do some fun activities.
With a cough to catch Octavia’s attention, Beauty Brass asked, “So…up for any club actives...like umm dancing” she nodded suggestively towards the dance floor.
Snapping up from her drink, Octavia took a quick glance at the dance floor then back at Beauty Brass before answering, “Absolutely not, I agreed to go out for few drinks out of respect for you because your my colleague and friend, but I draw the line at anything that could in anyway could tarnish my reputation.”
A lost cause as it ever was. Beauty Brass would have try harder later on, but the temptation to have fun herself was calling her towards the dance floor. With one last glance at her friend and “fine then” she trotted off to add her baby blue blur to the colorful mesh on the dance crazed floor.
Grumbling and rolling her eyes, at the uncouth display of the dancing ponies. Her boredom began to make her eyes wander, taking in what little could be seen in the dark nightclub. She could not make out Beauty Brass in the rainbow mesh of ponies, but what caught her attention the source of the irritating noise. The club’s DJ blasting her horrid music and shouting.
“Everypony in the house tonight, let’s keep this party rock ‘in with next the set,” said in sing song voice by a violet, sunglasses wearing white mare with eclectic blue streak hair. Then she followed with, “unfortunately my little ponies, I gotta take a break, but in my steed I give you DJ Colt Fiend .So until my joyous return, Peace out.“ Giving the crowd the ponies of version of thumbs up as the strange mare disappear into darkness behind the stage.
Chapter Two: A New Friend
Octavia’s blissful isolation was short live as somepony brainlessly smashed into her booths table. The pony in question happen to be young grey stallion with a slivery blue mane, wearing black shades. It seemed that his incident with the table didn’t deter him from picking himself up and turning towards her.
“Hi there pretty filly, haven’t see you here before …Hic. I’m Neon Lights, how bout you join me for a drink and a dance …hic. My treat, he slurred as her uncomfortably leaned into Octavia’s bubble.
“No thank you, now please leave me, I’m… waiting on friend," she said starting to feel uncomfortable as he lean even closer. His drunken state clearly had no ability to take a hint. She could smell the alcohol on hot his breath, why did he have to keep on leaning closer?
“Please… just leave me… alone,” she said weakly.
“Ahh ….hic, come on, give me a chance, “his voice starting to get aggressive.
“Please just leave...”
“COME ON! , How hard is it for just one dance you…”
“HEY DIP SHIT! ,” somepony yelled breaking tension for now. Both Octavia and Neon Lights turn their heads sideways to find a white mare wearing violet shaded glasses with the electric blue mane was staring down at them. The DJ PON-3 aka Vinyl Scratch.
Regaining what little composure Neon Lights had he mouth back, “buck off, this is none of yer buss… hic ness.”
“It’s gonna be if you don’t leave the mare alone. She clearly told you, she’s not interested so leave her alone ,” Vinyl Scratch said as she began approach toward them.
Octavia could only sit there with her mouth a gap at what was happening. Her heroine and the brute were starring daggers at each other. Both showed signs that neither would back down till one conceded in defeat or this could possibly end in a violent confrontation.
With an angry snort Neon Lights looked to Octavia then to DJ PON-3 and scoffed, “so this is… hic the friend you were waiting for. Ha I see now, well then…hic have fun filly fooling,” and started his leave, but not without giving Vinyl a hard shoved.
“Keep moving before I kick your bucking flank,” she responded sharply to the shoved while her eyes followed him till he was officially out of the nightclub.
Soon after another stallion approach them, but he was clearly was a bouncer of the club due to his stoic posture and nametag pinned to his black shirt. The faded yellow stallion with a grey mane approached the DJ and started a hushed conversation. He nodded to her and left in the direction that Neon lights had just left in.
“So are you okay?” asked a concern Vinyl Scratch.
Looking up to her savor, all she could do at moment was nod and mouth thank you shakily.Smiling Vinyl Scratch sitted herself in same spot, were at one point Beauty Brass had been. Looking directly into Octavia’s eyes through her shades, Vinyl took Octavia’s hoof in a comforting gesture and began her attempt at a comforting speech.
“Listen, the clubs not always like this, normally our bouncer’s deal with dumb shit like this before it gets out hand. I’m really, really sorry that you had night ruined. If there’s any way that I can make this up to you, please just ask,” she finished. With that done she leaned back into the booth giving Octavia her trademark grin before shockingly realizing something.
“Oh, that reminds me, I never introduced myself. Hi there, I’m Vinyl Scratch or DJ PON-3 when I’m working,” she said as extended her hoof.
“…I’m Octavia,” she replied returning the hoof shake.
“Cool, so Octy what brought you here to the Celestial Lounge? Here to booze it up or were yah gonna just chill with friends? ”asked the DJ.
“Please don’t called me Octy, it’s Octavia and I was dragged here by a friend who wanted celebrate my birthday here,” she answered the DJ, as well taking a quick glance back to the dancing ponies, where the hay was Beauty Brass?
“Wow…., that sucks that your birthday was buck up by that colt…, hey wait I know!”
Vinyl Scratch then gestured for waitress who took her order and soon return with at tray full of shot glasses filled with a magenta colored liquid. Octavia looked skeptical, but Vinyl assured her that shots were part of a birthday tradition at the lounge and that they were her gift to make up for the night.
Looking down at the shots, then back to the grinning Vinyl Scratch, “Why the hay not”, she thought. After all that’d happen so far, the DJ seemed to be somepony she could trust. She made up mind; she’d drink with her new friend.
Together they toasted, “To new friends,” and Vinyl Scratch quickly added, “Happy birthday Tavi,” and downed the first of several rounds.
Chapter Three: Awkward Much?
Waking up was turning out to be quite the challenge this morning. Also add a splitting headache and a throbbing ache in the lower back was making it one of those mornings not worth trying. Rolling awkwardly into a sitting position, Octavia’s first attempt at opening her eyes was met with morning light that stung painfully, that brought a light headiness that made her double over in agony. Taking more a cautious approach, she took her time let her bloodshot eyes to adjust before taking in unknown surroundings.
This was certainly was not her flat, the walls were standard white and by looks of it she was in den area. The futon she lying on was oddly comfortable, but not something she’d ever consider purchasing. Taking in the scenery of the unknown apartment was making her regret ever agreeing sharing shots with that white pony.
Groaning and clutching her stomach, (who was giving a painful reminder of the previous night’s events). She felt the contents of her stomach rise into her throat and with just enough reaction time; she managed to start heaving away from futon. Slouching on the edge she gasped in horror at where her sick landed. The floor would’ve been embarrassing, but at least she could’ve cleaned it up as an apologetic gesture. Unfortunately, fate was taking a more humiliating route. Sprawled out adjacent to the futon laid a pony, who she only recently befriended.
Vinyl Scratch, nursing her own hangover was awakening to the strangest sensation of something warm trickling down her back. Grumbling as she picked herself up, reaching behind her head, her hoof came in contact with some kind of gooey substance. Grimacing at realization of what it most likely was. Vinyl Scratch was briefly distracted as she took in her surroundings before noticing she wasn’t alone in her apartment. As she craned her head, she became eye locked with pair striking amethyst eyes.
“Uhh, good morning” she said to break the tension.
“I... I….I’m… sor”
“Umm do you mind if I shower first? This is kinda gross, “Vinyl interrupted Octavia as she also pointed to her back.
Octavia nodded shyly, doing her best to hide her embarrassment at situation, but failing miserably. She watched the DJ trot off to where she assumed the washroom was. Soon she heard the sound water running. Clutching her head in a sad attempt at hiding her shame she mumbled, “Could this day get any worse?”
The sound of running water stopped and the click of door opening revealed a fresh, puke free Vinyl Scratch. Cracking her back in between a sigh of refresh content, she turned her attention back to her guest to be again locked with Octavia’s anxious amethyst eyes. It didn’t seem possible; Octavia’s pelt was only slightly ruffled, her mane maintained its shape and yet she preserved her classy composure along with that cute pink bowtie, despite a previous night of unruly fun. Perfection: a pony that reminded flawless no matter what.
Coughing to regain her composure Vinyl Scratch said,” your welcome to use the shower and don’t worry, I clean after myself”.
“Thanks, but I’d rather wait till I get home, “Octavia answered weakly.
“Guess I better be a good host and call you a cab then?” Vinyl Scratch suggested while nervously rubbing the back of her head.
“That would be greatly appreciated” reply Octavia.
Making her way to the intercom by her kitchen, an incoherent conversing took place. Finished with machine Vinyl turned back to Octavia.
” So... it’s gonna about fifteen minutes before were beeped when your cabs here. Wanna have a coffee while we wait?” she asked.
Siting at a small table, Octavia patiently waited while watching the white pony use her magic to move cups among other things, as she made their drinks. Plucking up her courage she began a proper apology as Vinyl set their drinks down.
“Listen…I’m really sorry about vomiting on you.”
“Don’t worry about it, dumb shit happens,” giving Octavia one of her cocky grins, “besides it not like you did that on purpose, and if anything, it’ll make a good story for later.”
Vinyl Scratch was certainly an odd pony. Very few ponies probably wouldn’t have handled it as well and for that Octavia was grateful for Vinyl’s easygoing persona. Sipping at her coffee Octavia couldn’t help but wonder where certain piece of the DJ’s apparel was; as she got a good view of somepony’s ruby colored eyes.
“Vinyl, weren’t you wearing sunglasses earlier?”
Vinyl replied with shrugged that suggested she didn’t know, care or that were a lost cause long gone.
“What’s wrong Otcy, my eyes giving you the willies,” Vinyl teased playfully, although hoping that wasn’t true. Last thing she needed was another pony giving her odd looks or becoming scared of her just because of unique eye color.
Fortunately her concerns were cast away when Octavia said, “No, but the black eye worries me.”
Black eye? , looking into back of the spoon she was using for her own coffee, she did indeed have black eye. Lightly prodding it to confirm its existence, hoping that however she got it would not bite her in flank later.
Looking at Octavia she asked concern, “We didn’t get into a fight, right?”
“I don’t think so,” said Octavia as she look herself over, glad she didn’t seem to be sporting any kind blemish that suggested hooligan behavior.
Their thoughts interrupted by a faint buzzing that Vinyl Scratch immediately recognized as her apartment’s intercom. She quickly responded and said to Octavia in her best impression of a butler, “your cabs her, my lady”, opening door with pearly white sheen of magic while curtsying. Rolling her eyes at Vinyl Scratch’s childish antics she preceded out ready to leave this awkward morning behind her.
Chapeter Four: Sordid News
Hitting another sour note her mood fell with it, this was just not her day. Ceasing her bow, she rubbed her forehead as she inwardly grumbled. Frustrated at herself for making such childish mistakes and at how unusually fatigue she been lately. Her fellow cast mates look to each other before silently agreeing it was time for much needed break.
Letting out a weary sigh, she work her way towards the water fountain nearest the practice hall. Filling a paper cup she took a few sips as baby blue earth pony joined her; the pony named Beauty Brass apprehensively watch her friend perplex at how to address her concerns for her friend.
“So…,” she began as she her filled own cupped taking careful consideration of next her choice of words. “Stress getting to you Octavia, or were just adding your own twist to the piece?”
Brushing off Beauty’s attempt to get her to talk, she tried her best to seem impassive, hoping that Beauty Brass would take the hint to drop it. For Beauty Brass however, she took it as an invite to continue her pursuit for answers.
“Cause you’re not one to make mistakes, especially on a piece were all quite familiar with”, pausing to think of a possible excuse for Octavia’s unusual little blunders. “Hmm, could this be about the upcoming Grand Galloping Gala auditions?”
Great, she just had to bring that up although; she’d hate to admit it. She was starting to get quite stressed worrying about this year’s auditions. Last year she had been blessed to play at the gala after going through a gut wrenching audition. It had been such big boost to her musical career. Unfortunately, her gala performance was sabotage by some crazy pink pony requesting them to play the pony pokey. Then adding insult to injury: she jostled poor Frederic while he politely tried play to her request and then gave “a helping hoof” before knocking her to the ground. At least her reputation as a musician wasn’t tarnished, she couldn’t be held accountable for that one disaster of the night.
She cringed remembering what a catastrophe that night at the gala had been. She still could see vivid images of ponies panicking as one disaster followed another; first the palace ballroom became avalanche of debris as it crumbled to pieces. Then add that insane pink pony turning respectable socialite event into a backwash hoedown. Then to everyponies horror the gala became a stamped of the princess’s exotic treasure trove of animals, officially turning the gala into a doomed circus. Putting all that aside, this year she’d redeemed herself. She would ace this year auditions, proving her prowess as one Canterlot’s top musicians, providing that security would be stricter to prevent something like last year’s events from reoccurring. Her life would be complete so long if she never saw that pink pony ever again.
Turning her attention back to Beauty Brass whom she had let continue her ramblings to which she was only half heartily listening to.
“I mean what other reason could it be, don’t you agreed Octavia?”
“What?” Octavia asked back lost since she didn’t quite catch what Beauty had talking about earlier.
“I said could you possibly be sick, since you’re the kind of pony who has tendency to overwork herself…”
“Who’s sick?” interrupted a stallions voice.
Both mares turn their heads at first startle by the intrusion, but relaxed when they recognized the stallion as their pianist, a regal light brown stallion named Frederic Horseshoepin, who happen also have their quiet, purple stallion harpist, Harpo, following behind him.
Three sets of eyes on her all showing genuine concern; Octavia was starting to feel cornered unless she said something to reassure them. Her ears flopped down showing that she was breaking under combine efforts. They were her second family: the siblings she never had in lonely her childhood and at times there were endearing, but she wouldn’t change that for anything.
“Aren't at I least entitled to a bad day once awhile?” Octavia asked them looking worn down.
“True, but wouldn’t hurt to go in for a simple checkup. You haven’t been yourself lately and as your friends, we are just suggesting this because were all concern for you. Last thing we need is our cellist becoming ill. It would be hard to find a replacement that would remotely be as talented as you” said Frederick giving Octavia warm smile.
“You’re not going to let this go till I agreed are you?” she asked her cast mates who all nodded in agreement.
Sighing in defeat, she’d go tomorrow morning before their next rehearsal, just to reassure her friends...
Two days had passed since she went in for a simple routine checkup at one of Canterlot’s local clinics. So far everything seemed to pass by as a stagnant blur for Octavia as she laid on her bed staring into space. Two days or a week it didn’t matter, she rolled out her bed uncertain on how to face the inevitable. She was obligated to tell the ensembles sponsor what was ailing her, but considering what most likely misfortunate consequences awaited her. She still vainly was praying that Dr.Gallop was an incompetent moron and that the news she received two day ago was just figment of her imagination brought on by stress. Thinking back to that fateful morning she still could barely comprehend what happen, but still vividly remember the morning that would make everything she work so hard for becoming wasted effort.
She was starting to doubt the medical community creditable intelligence at who work in it as she waited in Dr. Gallop's examine room. She was feeling a little embarrassed at how she had shouted at Dr. Gallop demanding him to retest her. It was one of those of moments were she was certain that pony incompetence was at hand. . The door creaked open to reveal an orange stallion wearing a standard white lab coat that looked apprehensive at telling Octavia news he had already relayed to her.
“My dear, I have performed several tests one you and still the only one you test positive for being roughly about eight to ten weeks…” said Dr. Gallop as he tried to maintain the calm while, but Octavia was visibly in disbelief.
“It… it... It’s not’s p...p…p… possible,” Octavia said weakly fighting back the reality that was slowly beginning to settle in. It didn’t make sense, she never been another pony intimately recently that could make the orange earth pony doctor results seem in any sense logical to her.
Placing a comforting hoof on her shoulder before saying.
“Listen, I know this at first seems like a disaster, but things will work themselves out eventually. There are support groups you go to for mares in similar situations like you. Here’s a pamphlet, you can use as a guide for things you can do to promote a healthy pregnancy and I’ve also written the estimated date of your conception on the back, so you can make sense of this yourself. Now I recommend you get some rest, stick with your normal healthy eating habits and I’ll see you at end of this month for your first progress checkup”, said the doctor as he did his best to offer comfort to Octavia.
Pity for this young mare he thought, she was such an aspiring young musician in the classical community as he had recognized from a recital he had taken his wife to. Unfortunately in elite, noble community she’d most likely end up dealing with old fashion stigma against mares in her situation. He truly wished the best for mother and foal as he watched her leave his clinic.
The walk from her apartment to the Canterlot’s most premiered institute put Octavia in foreboding mood. Prepping herself for the inevitable one on one with the institute’s head chairpony of the music department and her ensembles sponsor; a stuffy unicorn stallion named Jazz. She knew by end of this day, it would most likely become one of worst experiences of her life.
Today the institute looked even more intimidating than ever as she trotted through the music wing entrance toward the practice where her ensemble was stationed out of. Equestria’s finest studied here and at times she felt homely compare to some the students of this school, but then again most of foals here were from well off families who brought there way in. Feeling slightly better knowing she got here on mostly her talent alone. Her internal ramblings were cut short as she got sight of very pony she was dreading meeting just leaving the practice hall. There stood Jazz in his signature green tartan suit with matching black bowtie seemly doing one of his known routine walkthroughs to keep ponies on their hoofs, making sure his department maintain its illustrious reputation. Catching sight of Octavia, he beckoned her over.
“Octavia Philharmonica I presume, “he said in his deep monotone voice.
“Yes sir”
“I heard from cast mates you took some days off under sick leave, care to explain,” he said looking down at her with the infamous sneer the elite class was known for.
Looking into Jazz’s cold eyes, she had never felt so vulnerable that what she said next could barely be heard, “I…I…I’m having a foal”.
“Pardon, I didn’t quite catch that”.
Recomposing herself, she said louder, “I’m Pregnant”, the words rolled off her tongue felt so foreign.
“I see…, so I assume you and your husband are thrilled then,” said Jazz attempting to be too polite, but something caught his eye. Octavia’s inability to make eye contact with him and her silence lead to her own doom as Jazz soon pieced together her situation from telltale signs that he was all too familiar with.
Taking a moment to compose himself he began, “How unfortunate, but I can’t have your “mistake” tarnishing my department. I’ll be kind and let you go with three months’ salary as compensation so can deal with your situation. Now I think it best if would take your leave today. My sympathies, Miss Philharmonica” he said emotionless as he pushed past her walking away in the direction towards his office. Leaving Octavia in a reeling daze at what just transpired.
Chapter Five: A Vauge Plan
Octavia had very little conscience left since her encounter with her former employer, other than that she had somehow made it back to her apartment safely. As she sat at her makeshift home office, her coffee table, still reeling in a near comatose state at what had transpire earlier that day. Looking to her right she saw a growing stack of mail that consisted of bills yet to be paid and probably some junk mail. At least she’d have money to pay them for next three months hopefully, but what then would become her source of income. Playing her cello was her livelihood not only to make bits, but it was her life’s calling to someday play music that went beyond sounding nice, but reaching a different almost uplifting spiritual level. Now she faced a new issue; within three months if she didn’t manage to figure out a new way to earn of bits, she wouldn’t be able to provide not only for herself, but her unborn foal.
She found herself stranded with the bitter fact that she had no inkling to whom the foal’s father was. Having no explanation to how this whole ordeal was plausible, left her dumfounded and frustarted. It was making her feel no better than two bit hussy. Grasping her head between her hoofs, racking her brain for the non-existent memory to make sense of what was currently happening.
This was not how she envisioned herself becoming a mother. She always thought that she’d be married first, and that she had successful career before deciding to take time off to start a family. Now, she was unemployed expecting mare. There very was little chance she could make a comeback as classical musician seeing as Jazz’s reaction would good indication of other possible future employer’s first impression of her.
Letting out long frustrated sigh in defeat of this sordid day before she collapse exhausted into the coffee table. A dull pain throbbed at where her head came in contact with the coffee table and the crashes aftershock jostled the stack of letters. Resulting one off white letter drifting out the stack towards the middle of the table, landing next to the pamphlet the Dr. Gallop had given her nearly three days ago.
She so badly wanted to cry, but the tears would not come. She longed to cry shamelessly like a filly even if it seemed childish and be smothered with comfort and love that parents were gifted in bring to their child, making any issue seem less overwhelming. She knew better through, she was raised to be a strong self-efficient pony. It went against her proud nature to accepted hangout’s for something she alone be held accountable for. She’d rely on own her ambitions deal with her unforeseen predicament.
As Celestia’s sun vanish below the horizon signaling the days end and Luna’s moon rising, bringing forth the night. Octavia felt herself be hit a bout of fatigue that harshly reminded her how physically and mentally exhausting the day had been. Too tired to bother getting up too make the short trip to her bedroom. She shifted into a somewhat reasonably comfortable position before drifting off into a uneasy sleep.
Waking up with some minor soreness due to poor choice of where to sleep. She managed to rise despite a painfully stiff neck, only to be further disoriented as her vision currently was a white haze. Lifting her hoof to her face to discover a wad of paper comically struck to forehead. Snatching it off dismissively, and then rubbing her sore neck with her left hoof. Her refreshed conscious brought her back to questionable reality.
Royally bucked, it looked so far since the discovery she was to expect a dependent sometime roughly within the next nine and months; putting the foaling day somewhere between mid-fall to early winter. She felt a small amount of relief given a reasonable time frame to prepare considering it was only the middle of February. Then the issue surrounding her manner to earn bits would only continue to haunt her if she didn’t resolve her employment issue before things became dire.
Originally she had work lined up throughout the spring till the Grand Galloping Gala auditions; the most recent would’ve been the ensemble playing at an elite society social gathering during Hearts and Hooves Day. It probably would’ve been an exhibit of many shades of red and pink Hearts and Hooves decorations. It would’ve been a gathering of all sorts of ponies that would either be there with significant others or alone looking to make connections, while the ensemble played with renowned poise in the background.
The sight of stack of wayward bills permeated into her peripheral version giving her no chance to even faintly ignore her bit issues. It brought on some unpredicted sniffles that lead to the abrupt first sign of precipitation that quickly transpire into ironic tears she longed for last night. She became lost in within a wave of overwhelming emotion manifesting itself as heart wrenching bawling. She cried in frustration at the demoralization situation she felt unjustly thrown in. She cried in frustration at how she lack the memory to how all this was possible. Her tears continued to flow down stained cheeks for her botched reputation as acclaimed lady and a respectable musician. Because now she bestowed the impression as knocked-up whore who didn't know whom the brat’s father was.
Her first bout of negatively towards the foal stunned her, did really harbor resentment towards her child? For consequences she was momentarily struggling with. No, if anything she more disgusted with herself for bringing an innocent life into such an unfair predicament. She would not hold the foal at fault; she’d be accountable for stumbling into a single motherhood. With one last sniffle she began to recompose herself, she’d never allow herself to be seen disheveled. She was about to wipe away the last her tears to stop at sudden contact of paper crinkle against her cheek.
She had forgotten she still held the offensive wad that earlier had been struck to her forehead. Discovering it was consisted of two pieces; the pregnancy pamphlet she was long overdue to read and a letter. Inspecting the envelope she found it changeling to read due senders chicken scratch writing, but adorned on its back was a stamp sealing the envelop securely shut, was what she assumed most likely was the senders cutie mark; a backwards double waver. She set the pamphlet aside for now, her curiosity drawing her to find out what the unknown sender had written to her.
With a precise hoof she made a clean opening along the envelopes top to avoid damaging its contents. Giving it a gentle shake, she was shocked to have glow stick alongside a letter land into her hoof. Looking at the glow stick baffled at why anypony would send such a thing by mail. She found the letter written in the same somewhat readable chicken scratch. The glow stick join the pamphlet to the side as Octavia began a modest attempt to decipher the unknown senders writing.
Hiya Octy,
Just writing to ya to say hi, hope things are going well for you. Sorry about the hangover, but at least your birthday turned out to be quite a fun night, I think.... Too bad I can’t remember much of it, but what little I do remember was pretty awesome. You’re quite the dancer after a few drinks and I give you kudos at matching me for drinks downed. Your quite the surprising pony Octy,gue you seem all primed and stuffy, but get you liquored up and your quite the party animal. So if you ever feel like hanging out sometime, just mail me whenever and if don't want ta talk to me again. That's cool, I don't judge.
From Equestria’s most rockin DJ Vinyl Scratch
PS: Don’t get too mad, but I told my friends the story about how you ended upchucking me and they found it hilarious. Also there's a glow stick for you as a birthday memento and good luck to another year older.
Images of the toothy grinning, white pony DJ flashed before her. She wasn't sure what she considered the DJ, a friend maybe. Of what little she did remember of her birthday, Vinyl Scratch didn’t seem that bad a pony. Sure she came off as a little bit sure of herself and a somewhat crazy, but then she recalled how chivalrous the DJ had been staring down a dangerous drunkard. Then again Vinyl scratch was DJ and Disc Jockeys were often involved with the lower deeps of society. Some were accessory with the hard-core partying scene that often was fuelled by vast amounts of alcohol consumption and drug use. Feeling at unease thinking about the possible dangerous things the DJ could be into; it set off an instinctive wave of protectiveness for her unborn child, which led to her hasty decision not to associate with the DJ ever again. Finished with Vinyl Scratch’s letter she set it down and rubbed her temples unsure how to proceed further within this day.
For three days she procrastinated in a vain attempt at avoiding the pamphlet, would somehow make this surreal situation just go away. Finally breaking down she pick it up for first time with intent to read it. It started off with a cutesy title, (Getting a New Mommy Started), which she couldn’t help but roll her eyes at. Giving it the quick scan through, it gave brief information on details like to expect within each trimester and to dos and don’ts to have a healthy pregnancy. Taking one last glance through the pamphlet, she took notice to Dr. Gallop’s scribbled writing indicating her estimated conception date.
From what she understood, it put the fertilization to implantation within a time frame of about a week sometime in the beginning of November. Which she found odd: considering she knew for a fact that she hadn’t been around any stallions other than her band mates, Fredric and Harpo. Also she factor in that she wasn't seeing or with anypony around that time.
She started sifting through her memories of last the November, looking for some form of closure so she may move on. She try her best to recalled that first week, not much had happen other than several rehearsals in preparation for the many different socialite events taking place around Hearts Warming Day. Then she vaguely remembered how let it slip to her band mate and close friend, Beauty Brass, that it was her birthday that following weekend. To which Beauty Brass had guilt trip her in doing something together to commemorate her birthday.
Then things began spin as pieces of the puzzle finally seemed to come together as a revelation dawned on her. There was really only one night she couldn’t account for, that night when Beauty Brass had dragged her to that nightclub. Concentrating all she had she strained her brain, attempting to force out all memories of that night, but all she could recall was arriving, Beauty leaving her , then being save from a drunken stallion by the DJ, then the celebratory birthday shots she shared with white pony, then some hazy flashes of dancing and hearing some pony mention body shots.
She shuddered hoping whatever she possibly did that night wasn’t too atrocious, but it still left her biggest question unanswered. Who did she apparently ended up having a one night stand with? It seemed the only way she might get some answers if she talk only pony it seemed she spent any time with that night, Vinyl Scratch.
For the first time she look downwards at her stomach, through still flat, but now knowing that some little pony was growing within her. It pushed the last of the shocked out her system and was replaced a mothers unconditional love. Laying her hoof across tummy, she muttered softly, “You don’t deserve this little one, but I promise do my best I can.”
Facehoofing in annoyance for if she wanted answers shed have to swallow her pride and eat her own words before approaching the DJ. Looking at Vinyl Scratch’s letter to her, she found relief to see at least the DJ knew how a write letter somewhat properly. Even through the writing was a manageable read, at least it contained a return address which she could as means to make contact with the strange pony. Her decision made that she,d seek out answers first, she opened the nearest drawer of her coffee table and grabbed a pen and paper.
Chapter Six: Go Vinyl Scratch
At first glance into Vinyl Scratches bedroom, one first impression on its current condition would’ve been that an implosion of disaster upon itself that even Discord himself would've been proud to claim as his handiwork. A laptop emitted a bland tune atop a barley desk that shared a similar the guise as the floor. Both were covered in a chaotic blanket that consisted of records, remnants of food wrappers and beer cans carelessly scattered throughout the small bedroom apartment. Tuck away in the corner on top a frame-less mattress: concealed by a makeshift nest of sheets slept a very hangover Vinyl Scratch.
Standing in the door way stood Rhythm, (a cobalt blue unicorn mare, with a silvery white, red steak mane and a two eighth note cutie mark), who happen to be struck with the internal debate at how approach the hangover DJ. It was now three in the afternoon; she had given Vinyl more than enough time to recuperate from this recent weekend’s long array of gigs that they both had worked. Rhythm sighed, annoyed at the fact that she often was way too permissive with the DJ antics, but she guess it came the familiarity with how long she knew Vinyl Scratch who in turn dealt with her annoying traits. She easily could make out where the DJ was hidden, Approaching the pony, careful not to step anything of value. She gave firm prod into the lump to make to contact with what she prayed to Celestia was pony. Not getting a replied she gave a much harder sharper prod into mass to be blessed with Vinyl Scratch groaning in annoyance.
"Come on Scratch, get up, I gots something for you if get up”, Rhythm said sweetly while continually prodding the DJ in vain attempt to coax her friend out of bed.
The DJ in her irritation lashed out by mumbling harshly “piss off” to the blue mare before burying herself further into her cosy nest to show her resilience.
Rhythm not one to easily give into Vinyl Scratches willful nature, gave a pout in mock defeat at her fellow the unicorns stubbornness. She grinned sinisterly as she saw the answer to getting her bedridden friend up. Adjacent to the makeshift bed was a simple crafted nightstand, it bore the half-finished beer a top it, but what caught Rhythms attention was the infamous pair violet tinted shades that the DJ was rarely seen without. Forgoing any hesitation, she snatched the glasses and bolted out the room, but not forgetting to hastily muffle, ‘got yer shads scratch”, to taunt the mare out of bed.
Then with surprisingly speed the DJ lunged out form her bed to begin chase. There were many things associated with Vinyl scratch aka DJ PON-3; like how she was known to be a mellow fun loving Pony that was seldom ever seen agitated. However there was one thing that would set her off. Some pony touching her personal belongings, especially her prized shaded glasses.
They bounded throughout their apartment; dodging furniture and any other loose debris before Vinyl manage to overtake her blue roommate. In which the chase part ended but transpired into a brief grapple. Ending with Rhythm pinned as Vinyl Scratch sat atop her the victor.
Accepting defeat the cobalt blue mare relinquish her hold on prized shades, glad to at least have the DJ up so that they could on with their day.
"Ok Vinyl you win, can you off me now?"
The shades now back with their rightful owner, a smug Vinyl Scratch hop off her roommate and proceeded her way towards their kitchen. A mutual understanding between two was that whoever lost during their shenanigans would treat the victor. The blue mare in this instance made her to their kitchen to prepare quick meal for the two while the proud victor sat patiently for her prized.
"Any particular reason you need me up or you just couldn't handling being without me for too long" the DJ asked sweetly to tease her fellow mare.
Without missing a beat the blue mare answered back," No my dear sweet Vinyl Scratch, I somehow manage, but it seems
"Uuuggggh...", groaned the DJ. Due a mutual agreement made long ago, every Wednesday they would take the time to sort through their mail, organising bills, wayward letter or two, and junk mail. This incredibly boring mundane chore filled Vinyl Scratch with dread. Which often lead to some amusing scenarios where the DJ would attempt to find any possible way to avoid chores she found excruciating boring.
"Geez Vinyl, it's not even that big a stack, it's only the middle the month. “Her assurance towards white mare didn't lift her grim mood at all as she continue to huff. “Can you at least grab the bin while I clear the table?" She asked the sullen mare. Who at despite her lack of enthusiasm towards this chore at least levitated bin of mail to their makeshift home office (the every loyal and multi- purpose dining rooming table).
Dumping the bin unceremoniously onto the table with a swoosh, both mares not thrilled to have to this begun sorting. Junk, junk , court order...more junk, bill...meh ,Junk a letter from Octavia Philharmonica , caught the DJs attention . Hastily glancing to her roommate, glad to see her counterpart deeply focus on her half, she proceed to investigate the letter address to her. Octavia Philharmonica; the name didn't quite ring a bell as somepony she knew too well, but she shrugged it off as she opened the letter.
Dear Miss Vinyl Scratch,
I’m not sure if you remember me and I wouldn't be surprise if you didn't. We met roughly two months ago and spent the evening together celebrating my birthday. The reason I'm mailing you is that I wouldn't mind the chance to have a get together. Whatever works to your convince would be fine seeing as I have a lot free time at the moment. I look forward to your reply and to getting a chance to as you said in your last letter to "hangout".
Sincerely yours, Octavia Philharmonica
Contemplating the meaning "at your convince" , the DJ glanced over at small stack of mail that stilled needed sorting. She then reasoned that this was her most convenient time to excuse or ditch mail day in pursuit of something much less boring. Besides it would nice hang with a new friend that she hadn’t seen in long time. Not like she had to anything worry right now other than Rhythm being royally pissed with her later.
“Vinyl, why aren't working on your half?" Rhythm had finally notice the lack of work getting done by white mare. Also she could read the slight change in demeanor that hinted that the white pony was possibly planning something that probably end up leaving her boiling mad.
"Umm... Something important just came up that I need go deal with... So I better get goooo...." The DJ didn't give her friend the chance to stall her escape as she made a beeline for the door; leaving a an irritated Rhythm left to finish sorting their mail.
Freedoom.Yay
Chapter Seven: Hot Cocoa
The cool February breeze nipped at the pelt of anypony venturing out today. It was being of those winter days that wouldn't end without leaving one last impression before the transition into spring. Octavia being one of the few ponies out today did her best to cope by bundling up in her warmest tartan scarf. Her destination this evening was a quaint little bistro called The Honeywheat Cafe.
Snow crunched with each step and breathe fogged as Octavia made her through the snowy streets of Canterlot this evening. She began to mull over the last few days to past the time as well to ignore the cold. The currently out of work cellist was surprised at how fast she found herself adapting to current life altering events in her life. A small part still hoping that all that happen in last little while was just some horrid dream she cease to wake up from yet. Whatever answers the DJ may have couldn’t be as dramatic or as dire as the ones her frantic mind came up with.
Since discovering she was an expectant mother, the first few days had her reeling in the initial overwhelming fear and shock. She still felt almost soul crunching stress towards the whole situation. The uncertainly surrounding her unplanned families future at first seemed dire. However, the unstoppable force known as maternal instincts were kicking in. This boost (or what felt more like a sharp slap to the flank) to trudge the worst her misgivings.
Finding it pleasant, but odd at how soon the pony named Vinyl Scratch had responded to her invite. Especially since her mail that day had been delivered directly to her by a personal carrier. The pegasus mail-colt dressed in equestrian postal uniform with matching goggles was charmingly sweet and professional. She found herself having the strangest case of deejay-vu towards mail-colt. He was attractive with a lean athletic build, his sweet manner and warm goofy smile only adding to his charm. However she found the shade of his white coat and faded blue man eerily familiar.
The Honey Wheat Cafe now was just one more street corner away. Staggering briefly suddenly feeling faint, as another bout fatigue hit her. Managing to steady herself, she shook it off as just one of the pregnancy quirks she just had to suffer through. Giving herself quick full body shake, releasing off any last minute tension, (disguising it as a polite gesture, flicking off snow that may have settle on her coat), before opening the door into the cafe.
Upon entering Honey Wheat cafe, Octavia found herself greeted by warm gust of air. The cafe today was experiencing a slow day due the weather. The lone waitress running the cafe today looked happier to have the cellist here, her work day more fruitful with another customer today it look so awkwardly empty with fewer ponies who regularly filled them. The chatter of lively ponies not present gave off a feeling emptiness without the warmth its customers provided.
There weren't many ponies out this evening due to the weather,but it seem the few who were gravitated to the cafe. There was an elderly stallion reading a copy of the Canterlot Express in a corner booth sipping at a steaming hot cup of coffee. Two mares chatted away while nursing at their own hot drinks at a window table. The last pony sporting a mess of spiky electric blue mane and pair of amnesty tinted shades. Vinyl Scratch, (or sometimes by DJ Pon-3) seemed oblivious to world, hunched over and sliding her cup back and forth board. The doors chime alerting all to cafe that another pony joined their mists.
Swallowing the nervous lump in her throat, Octavia made her way towards the DJ's table. Without meaning to due to frayed nerves, she plotted her flank down harsher than she had intended. Their hesitation cut short by the waitress checking in on them.
Octavia consider ordering some earl grey tea, but found her nose being drawn to heavenly sweet scent of Vinyl’s drink. Which she recognized as hot cocoa. The chocolaty aroma it wafted encased her cozy feelings of being enveloped in warm embrace of a cozy fireplace, drink in hoof and surrounded by love ones.
"I'll have what my friend is having," Octavia answer the waitress.
“One hot chocolate coming up,“the waitress answer and left.
The ominous tiredness couple with nervous butterflies did not help Octavia's focus now that she finally face to face with DJ. Being the bolder pony, Vinyl Scratch,broke the silence.
"So... , it's been awhile, must be nice to have some time off of busy pony like yourself. You know, how all those high and elite types seem to be always throwing a fancy shindig here and there for whatever reason."
Octavia let the DJ rambled on as her drink now just arrive.
" There not my kinda crowd , but life as a musician, you sometimes can't be picky for bits. So whats new with you-"
She stumbled lightly taking as she took snip of her cocoa. Her nerves somewhat settled. Octavia decided it was now or never, swallowed last of her reservations, clear her throat and let it flow.
"Miss Scratch, I know it been awhile since we last spoke, but it never to late to catch up with "friends".(Vinyl Scratch nodded in acknowledgement),"So what i had hope to..to... ask you may seem uncomfortable and a bit queer, since we haven't really known each other for that long..." -
Why now of all times did she have to stammering again. She was so close ,why did her tongue have become so knotted with emotion. All she needed to do was get it out and go from there. She kept repeating to herself but to no avail did her mouth do as she willed to get her message ascross.
Vinyl scratch seeing Octavia viable distress, growing concern for the gray mare.
" Hay now, just lay it on me. Whatever you got to say can't be bad. So go ahead just shout it out, you'll better feel once it done,"The DJ gave Octavia that zealous grin encouraging the cellist.
Her efforts were rewarded, Octavia blurted out was "I'm pregnant."
Those in the cafe who couldn't help but hear the good news all gave her warms smiles and some even came up to her offering their congratulations. Vinyl scratch remind blank face.
"Thats nice..., not the weirdest thing that anypony ever told me told, but what tis got to do with me,seeing as like you said before. Were not really the closest of friends. Wouldn't this be something you tell mare friends to get giggly with and coo over cutesy foal stuff together."
Regaining control over the volume of her voice Octavia responded with,"True, however I find myself in need of your help to fill certain missing gaps of important details I'm having trouble filling in."
Vinyl Scratch let out an all knowing "oh".
Octavia felt overwhelm chest-fallen, there seemed no point continuing this fruitless adventure with this simpleton of a pony .She knew getting anything clear up nothing short of a long shot. She wasn't sure if she was about to cry, just sure that right now she needed was to get away.This was pointless she keep repeating in her head. She drop the bits for drink then proceeded out the cafe. The tiredness that nag for last while hit tenfold making her strive harder to stay centered and upright.
"Octavia wait up!"
She halted, turned to who her caller was, the DJ cantering to catch up to her.
"Please Vinyl, leave me be ," was all Octavia could muster fighting back tears.
"Just listen Tavi, I know I'm not your favorite pony, but you didn't give me chance to mention that there may be way to remember long forgotten memories. Your Pregnant I'll let it go because you know .See, there this spell."
"A spell?"
" Yeah a memory spell, my friend sometimes casts it on friends, herself to sometimes aid when were trying memorize something difficult or after a night of partying before a show. There only tiny one problem, I don't know how far back she can trigger older memories. Still though, better than nothing and as a friend I want nothing more than to help."
"So when would it the best time to come see your friend about casting this spell?"Octavia asked trying not to sound too desperate.
"Honestly as early as tonight if you wanted,"The DJ answer nonchalant.
Octavia couldn't help what happen next. She lunged at the white pony embracing her in bone crushing hug, surprise to discover how plush and snuggley the white pony pelt was. Vinyl Scratch returned the hug happy to help. However,in the back of her mind she hope her friend would be cooled off by now or lest miffed at her for bailing out on her earlier chores.
Author's Note
