The Band

by Ben Matthews

Rating: everyone
Tags: DJ P0N-3, Sweetie Belle, Lyra, Original Character, My Little Pony: Friendship is Magic, Comedy, Romance, Adventure, Octavia
Length: 11417

Four musical ponies form a band. Can, the young and inexperienced, Sweetie Belle hold the group together as they tour Equestria, or will they fall into disharmony due to contrasting personalities and styles of music?

Four musical ponies form a band. Can, the young and inexperienced, Sweetie Belle hold the group together as they tour Equestria, or will they fall into disharmony due to contrasting personalities and styles of music?

How will Sweetie Belle deal with her Special Talent becoming stranger, as it becomes stronger? Will the relationship between Bon Bon and Lyra survive the Tour? Can Octavia expand beyond her current musical range? Is Vinyl Scratch more then just a disc jockey and roadie for the band?

Belated Author's Note: Set sometime before "Slice of Life" and "Crusaders of the Lost Mark",

Credits:
My Little Pony: Friendship Is Magic created by Lauren Faust, and belongs to Hasbro.

Thanks goes to Rambopvp for the cover art which inspired this story.
Thanks also goes to Songfacts, Wikipedia, and YouTube for musical information and inspiration.

Special thanks goes to all the musicians, past and present, for creating music I love to listen to; But, unable to create myself.

Published 2014-04-27 16:40:02 UTC
Last updated 2020-02-04 23:22:25 UTC

The Basement Tapes

Bang The Drum

The next day, before heading to Octavia and Vinyl's home, Sweetie Belle decided to check the Cutie Mark Crusaders' clubhouse. "Scootaloo, there you are! I have been looking all over for you yesterday. Guess what?" The unicorn flashes her flank at her pegasus friend.

"Awesome! We all got our cutie marks now. No more putting up with being called blank flanks." Then her smile turned into a frown. "But that won't stop those two from bugging the hay out of us."

Sweetie knew who she meant. Diamond Tiara and Silver Spoon. She changed the subject as she looked around the room. "What's with the musical instruments?" In a slight daze, she picked up a guitar with her magic.

"Oh, just figuring out what to keep and what to throw out now that we all got our cutie marks." Scootaloo slid in behind the drum set, intending to bang out some frustrations picked up over the past few days despite achieving her goals: Getting her cutie mark, and the ability to finally fly right was awesome. But, what to do next?

Apple Bloom entered the clubhouse and blinked as what looked like a magic field fading away, "What the hay?! I must be seeing things. I think the paint fumes maybe still lingering."
Both her friends shake their heads as it they were just waking up.

"Hi Apple Bloom!" Sweetie Belle smiles warmly as she puts down the guitar. "Glad you are here. What should we do now that the purpose of the Cutie Mark Crusaders have been achieved?"

Apple Bloom sat down, "Applejack suggested we help other colts and fillies to get their cutie marks; And since we are the last ones in school to get ours; It won't be until next school year before we do that."

Scootaloo nodded in agreement. "Yeah, except for Bab Seeds in Manehatten, we are pretty much done. Unless we fail, we graduate from school at the end of the year."

Sweetie Belle looks at the clock on the wall. "Geez, I'm going to be late for the audition! Scoots, can you take me and Bloom to Octavia and Vinyl's home in the wagon?"

"Sure but why all of us?"

"I want my friends there" Sweetie answered with a nervous smile.

The Audition

In the wagon being pulled by Scootaloo o her scooter. Sweetie Belle yells, "Scootaloo, wait, Stop!"

The pegasus almost crashes the scooter and wagon when "slamming on the brakes". She looks back at the wagon wondering what the problem was. She spots Button Mash as Sweetie Belle jumps out the wagon to greet the young colt. "Oh, more mush, Yuck!"

Apple Bloom admonishes her tomboyish friend, "Don't knock it. there is one for you out there."

"I do hope.." Quickly adds "not" to cover up a growing yearning.

"Hey Button, Can you join me and the rest of the crusaders at Octavia and Vinyl's place? Please." giving her boyfriend, an inviting smile.

Button Mash thinks for a moment "Since I'm not really doing anything, okay."

Sweetie's smile grows into a grin."Thank You."

Button yells back at the house "MOM! I will be with Sweetie Belle and her friends at Octavia's"
"Alright dear; Have fun!"
Button Mash and the Crusaders take a short walk, the rest of the way.

Sweetie Belle knocks on the door to Octavia and Vinyl's residence.
Octavia opens the door, "Hello. I see you made it." Looking over Sweetie's shoulder "Along with your friends. Do come in."
Button Mash and The Cutie Mark Crusaders filed in passed Octavia. "Everyone is down in the basement. Where Vinyl has a small recording booth set up."

Scootaloo looked around the tiny room. "Wow, this place is small, and crowded." Along with the owners, Octavia and Vinyl, there was also Bon Bon, and Lyra in the room. Making a total of eight ponies in this cramped quarters.

"Yeah, but it does make for some interesting sounds" explained Vinyl Scratch. "Okay, Sweetie Belle, Is it?" The DJ sees her nod yes. "Anytime you're ready,"

Sweetie Belle steps in front of a microphone. Glances at Button briefly, then closes her eyes a moment as she takes a breath. Magic from her horn subtly slipping in everywhere.

Apple Bloom stares at her friend in astonishment "That is some fancy singing,"

"Oh yeah, quite cool to hear." Vinyl looks over her equipment and around the room; Then lifts the shades from her eyes and looks at Sweetie Belle with slight suspicion "Okay, let's try something with a little more pizazz."

Sweetie Belle gives a nervous nod, then closes her eyes as she takes a calming breath. Her horn really lights up as she opens her eyes, staring straight at Button Mash.

There is a moment of complete silence as Sweetie Belle lays flat out on the floor in exhaustion. Then everyone else cheers and stomp their hooves loudly.
Then reluctantly, Octavia slowly raises a hoof as if in school. "Why would she need us if she can do something like this?"

Vinyl looks over Sweetie Belle as her young friends gather around in congratulations, and a little concern."I suspect that more actual instruments and voices involved, the easier it is for her special talent to pull off this sort of stunt on a regular basis."

Lyra Heartstrings, a fellow unicorn nods in agreement. "Magic may make things look easy for us. But there is some mental strain just to move stuff. Then there is even physical strain when lots of magic is involved. That singer almost suffered mystical burnout."

Author's Note

The Chapter Title refers to the studio album by Bob Dylan and The Band.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_Basement_Tapes

Added a romantic subplot between Button Mash and Sweetie Belle.
Got the idea while outlining the Detrot story arc.

Supreme Rumours of Twilight Hopping Mad

A day later, the band members meet together in Octavia and Vinyl's living room.
Vinyl Scratch looks around and smiles. "We got a date for a small concert at the Blue Parasprite; Their regular entertainer had to cancel for undisclosed reasons. It maybe a bit of a dive, but we have to start somewhere. Sure, we could produce decent records," Nods with a smile at Sweetie Belle, "But it's the live shows that really bring out the best in us. And not to mention the extra money that a live show usually brings in."

That evening, the band is on stage for their first gig together.
"Are we ready to rock!?" asks Sweetie Belle
"When you are..." Octavia said calmly,
"Let's do this!" exclaims Lyra, with a huge grin.
"Awww yeaaaaaah~!"

The band smiles as they listen to the applause from the audience.
Sweetie Belle grins at her band mates "Okay girls, lets hope this second song is just a good."

Sweetie Belle steps off the stage as the band takes a short break, and heads for one of more private corners of the night club,
"Button Mash, you shouldn't be in here; But, thank you for coming anyways. It means a lot to me."
"You're welcome. You shouldn't be in here either, But I guess the band can't go on without you."
Sweetie answers with a smile."As long as I am with the band, and don't drink alcohol, I am allowed in." Looking around, "I better get back on stage."

During the short break, Lyra sits down next to Bon Bon, who was watching the show.
"Bonnie, is something wrong? I been watching your face during that last song, you do not seem to be happy."
"I am not. I put up with your various eccentricities, because I love you, And they prevent you from going far,"
Lyra narrowed her eyes; she did not like what Bon-Bon was implying,
"I can see and hear that you and the rest of the band will go far. Very far. All over Equestria, and beyond.. Leaving me here all alone. I am very tempted to ask you to quit. But, that would not be fair to anyone."
Lyra turned and watched the band get back on stage. She stood up to join them. "We'll talk later, Bon-Bon."

Sweetie Belle overhead the conversation between Bon-Bon and Lyra, and had chosen the next song while she looked into her fellow unicorn's eyes. What will happen next, she had no idea.
After a quick, quiet discussion about the next song, the band begins to sing again.

"Alright girls, the next song is a slight change of pace."

"Well, that was a bit painful. " commented. Vinyl Scratch."More in terms of tempo, then anything to do with the lyrics.; Which were good by the way."
Sweetie Belle, nods. "Alright, you might like the next one."

After the song, the band stared out on the dance floor.
"Are you sure Twilight Sparkle is a princess?. Aren't dance lessons suppose to come with a crown?", asked Sweetie in disbelief. She remembered Rarity telling her about Twilight's last attempt at dancing.
"Being a DJ, I have seen worse." commented Vinyl Scratch.
:"We all have our eccentricities,"
"Speak for yourself Lyra," sniffed Octavia with disdain. "Thought she had more class."
Sweetie Belle looked at all the band members with hard eyes. "I admit I was taken aback. But she is the Princess, so she can set any trends she wants,"
Octavia whispers "Please, no."
Sweetie continued, ignoring the whispered comment. "I know just the song for her. So lets really show her, and the rest of audience, how to rock on out,"

With a hint of raw emotion in Sweetie Belle's voice "Okay, last song; And this one sums up my feelings more then anything else tonight."

Sweetie Belle sees Princess Twilight Sparkle staring at her open-mouthed, her lower jaw almost touching the floor. Then an intense gleam of interest appears in the Element of Magic's eyes.
A shiver of fear runs down the singer's spine."Okay, We're done. Time to get the hay out of here!" She races for one of the exits, hoping to leave the Princess far behind.

Author's Note

The Blue Parasprite is borrowed from the excellent Piano Mare by Aegis Shield.
http://www.fimfiction.net/story/16080/piano-mare

Bonus Track: Which inspired a previous version of this chapter; Some dropped elements will be added in a later chapter.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k6EeObPCMR8

Warning: Still needs editing.
At least I got most of the stuff I wanted up. Needs more bon-bons though.

The fastest train on the line

Bon-Bon and Lyra looked at each other with sadness. in their eyes "Bonnie..."
"There is not much left to say, Lyra, Except..."

Lyra, with luggage enveloped in her magic, slowly trudges towards the train station where the rest of the band is waiting.

Sweetie Belle, Octavia and Vinyl Scratch stood on the station platform. waiting with Applejack and Apple Bloom for Lyra Heartstrings to show up.

Applejack watched her little sister, Apple Bloom, hug Sweetie Belle; Then turns to talk to Uncle and Aunt Orange. "I hear that you got your very own train." Not without a bit of envy in her voice.

"Yes, we do. We sort of had to; Considering the trouble we had with deliveries last year." Shaking his head over the past headaches he had to deal with. "Your Aunt named it the Orange Blossom Special. She is the fastest train on the seaboard line."

Vinyl watches Octavia look over the colourful train. "I know that look Octy. I usually get them when I am about to create wonderful wubs."
Octavia sighed, "I am not sure I can do it."
"You won't know until you try. When it comes to music, you got talent to burn. It is something musical?"
"Yes. But you will have to wait until we can open our luggage on the train."

Something to do with the fiddle or violin? Same difference. Vinyl mentally shrugs. Only in how it was played. The same debate goes for the cello or double bass. Names didn't matter to the disc jockey, only the notes coming from the instruments did.

Scootaloo lands next to Apple Bloom and Sweetie Belle, then wraps her forelegs around them in a group hug. Then quickly looks around in slight embarrassment. as she breaks off the hug, hoping no one else noticed her being mushy. "Word on the wind is that Princess Twilight Sparkle is looking for you, Sweetie Belle."

"Oh joy. She noticed me spell singing. I have no desire to be a subject of one of her studies."
"Spell singing?" asked Scootaloo.
"Magical Music or Musical Magic? I can't decide what to call it."
"The Princess might suggest something. She is the Element of Magic, after all." Apple Bloom pointed out.

Sweetie Belle watches Lyra get on the train without talking to anyone. "Okay, I got to round up the band; We're leaving now." She looked at her friends, "You two look after each, and Ponyville, while I am gone." Quickly gives her fellow Crusaders a tight hug before leaving, and starts looking around for the rest of the band.

"Oh, there you are Sweetie Belle." The singer breathed a sigh of relief, that it was only Rarity, her sister. "Princess Twilight Sparkle is looking for you."
"I was never here! In a few minutes, I'll defiantly won't be here."
"What ever do you mean, Sweetie?"
Having spotted Octavia and Vinyl in the crowd.:"I'll explain later in a letter. Gotta go!. Love ya sis."

"Well, I never... Humph. Youth today! Always in such a rush." A minute later, Rarity realizes what she just said. "No, I can't be that old!" In dramatic fashion, she falls onto her fainting couch, which somehow appeared out of nowhere, and bursts into tears.

"Octavia. Vinyl. Lyra is already on the train. Let's go, now."
"What is the hurry?" asks Octavia.
"Twilight Sparkle is looking for me. If we meet, there may not be a band, never mind a tour. Unless something drastically changes. my spell singing seams to be harmless."
Vinyl Scratch has nowhere near the vast knowledge of Magic the Princess has, but she has her own experiences and instincts to rely on. "Alright, I trust you to be honest about any serious changes." Sweetie Belle simply nodded. "Then let's blow this pop stand."

Octavia looks over the small instrument. It was certainly easier to carry then the cello. And far more versatile then she allowed herself to be.
Releasing a breath, she picks up the violin, (fiddle in the more rural parts of Equestria) and the bow laying beside it. Then walks out of her room in the sleeper car, and into the passenger section. Vinyl flashes her an approving smile.

Looking at her band mates with growing confidence "Here is what I am working on..."

Author's Note

Bessie Banks is an American soul singer, best known for her original 1964 recording of "Go Now," successfully covered in the same year by UK band The Moody Blues.

Orange Blossom Special (song)
Orange Blossom Special (train)

Danger, Still Under Construction:

Wild Purple One

Midnight Train to Manehatten

The band members looked out the windows as the train pulled into Manehattan's Grand Central Station.
"Thank you, Sweetie. You live up to your name." Lyra Heartstrings was nowhere near exuberant, But, for the moment, she was no longer crying her eyes out, either.

"Eh, All I did was lend you my ear and shoulder." Sweetie looks at Octavia Melody and Vinyl Scratch sitting together. "Any idea where we will be staying?"

"Uhhh. Not sure at the moment.Too many ponies, and not enough couches."
"Vinyl Scratch! You mean to tell us that you never booked any hotel rooms?"
The DJ shrugs. "Nope, I thought somepony else would take care of lodgings".
Octavia face hoofs, and sighs, "Well, this trip is off to a lovely start!"

Sweetie Belle started to get a bit worried. She was having second thoughts about this trip. "How many bits do we all have? If we have to, we can sing for our supper."
Octavia gave Sweetie Belle a reassuring smile:"Manehattan is a tough city, but there is enough bright spots to make it worthwhile. If I have to, I'll use my cello to keep ponies in line; Starting with Vinyl."
"Hay, no need for that!"

After lugging their luggage all over the city in search of a place to stay.
"Well, its better then sleeping out on the streets," Vinyl shudders as the band looks at the run down hotel. The DJ admits to having low standards; But she still had some.:

The Band visits a nearby music store. Inside, Sweetie and Vinyl drifted over to the more modern instruments, The DJ lingers over several electronic keyboards. Then glances at the younger unicorn, and raises an eyebrow. "You're glowing."
"Oh.uhm. " closing her eyes for a moment. "Something tells me you should play."
"Alright. We are going to talk about this later." Vinyl Scratch stood over a keyboard that somehow felt right. and her own horn lights up as she feels Sweetie Belle's magic seep into her.

"That was frighteningly cool.We should collaborate more often. My mad skills and your valuable voice will blow everypony away."
Lyra and and Octavia wanders in.
"No skills, Vinyl, just madness."
"Get with the times, 'Tavi; Metal masters wood."
Sweetie Belle looks at Lyra. "Do they always fight?"
Lyra just grins, "Pretty much. Gets the creative juices flowing, I suppose. If the variety of insults are any indication, Metal, nah. I like to have wood."

"Why don't we check out the competition?" asks Sweetie Belle. while pointing at a poster advertising a music concert.
"If there is free food to go with the free show, I'm in." says Vinyl,
"Forget food, I want free drinks!"
Octavia shakes her head at the antics of Lyra and Vinyl. "I suppose we will all go; I got nothing better to do."

A Wild Concert

Near the front of the stage, the band waits for the show to start.
"I wonder how good this Wild Rover is?" inquires Sweetie,
A black coated pegasus with silver mane and tail trots onto the stage; followed by three other ponies, one of each race.
Vinyl Scratch lifts her shades up for a moment. "A beer mug and electronic guitar for a cutie mark? This could get interesting. Probably a drunken disaster."

"Hello, I'm Wild Rover; And hopefully, it will not take a long time for all of us to have a good time!"

Wild Rover picks up a banjo for the next song.

Octavia shakes her head slightly "What an ego."
"If what my sister, Rarity, told me, Not as big as that showmare that visited Ponyville a couple of times. I think her name was Trixie."
"You got to admit, the tunes are kinda catchy. " admits Vinyl. "Not the usual stuff I listen to,"
"Oh a nice looking stallion too."
"Lyra! Shhh, Not so loud!" Sweetie Belle smiles in agreement, along with the rest of the band. But silently hoping that this is not the start of Lyra's rebound from Bon Bon.

Lyra Heartstrings begins to get her old grin back. "That sounds like an impressive pony.

Sweetie Belle nods in agreement, "That could be a great cutie mark story. Would have been really nice to have heard it long before now,"

"Okay, enough stroking my own ego," grins Wild Rover unrepentantly, "I'm going to stroke some serious strings instead."

"Excuse me while I kiss this guy."
"Vinyl! That was not how the lyrics went."
"True Octy, But talent like that deserves a reward,"
Lyra bounces up and down, "I saw him first. so I get to kiss him instead."
"Girls! Enough. "Sweetie stomps a hoof on the ground, hard. "We will all meet him back stage. I am getting an idea."
"Whoa, who knew you were such a party animal?!"
Sweetie Belle shakes her head, feeling her face getting warm "No, Vinyl. At least, not yet. Business before pleasure."

Sweetie Belle leads the rest of band backstage after the show; in the search of Wild Rover.
"Ah, there you are. Can we talk? And before you get any ideas, this is strictly business."
Wild Rover looks at the mares, and nods."Sure, I can spare a few minutes." A grin begins to grow. " and maybe a few hours, if things go well."
Sweetie Belle says. "We would like you to join our band..." Then with insistence. "Professionally."
"Since I am in a kinda of rut at the moment, and need to expand my musical horizons. I would gladly accept your invitation." Smiling, "You seem to be in charge; for such a young mare."
Sweetie Belle blinks in surprise. "I am?!" Looks at the rest of the band, all of whom shrug their shoulders.
"You kinda fell into it," explains Vinyl Scratch, and grins. "Besides, you know when to put your hoof down. Can't let 'Tavi here have all the fun in taming us." Winks, good naturally.

Meanwhile, back in Ponyville...

"Twilight, dear. Do calm down. There is no need for you to be so...." Rarity stalls, trying to come up with the perfect word to describe Princess Twilight Sparkle's current state.
Sighs. giving up. "Sweetie Belle maybe trouble; Especially with the rest of the terrible trio known as the Cutie Mark Crusaders. I doubt very much that my sister is in serious trouble. She is with Octavia." Then Rarity begins to whimper, "The only mature pony with her...Maybe you're right to panic. What was she thinking? Leaving like that?!"

From above the room, Rainbow Dash pipes in "Hay, what's the big deal? It' s just a book. A silly song book at that."

Princess Twilight Sparkle glares up at her loyal pegasus friend, :"It's not just any book. It has the same signature as that comic book Spike had. I am sure of it, If only the blasted thing didn't disappear on us. I would be able to run a comparison."

"Easy sugar cube, just take the songbook to wherever Sweetie Belle is."

"That's it! Thanks Applejack. You're always the sensible one here."

"Aww shucks; Just being practical."

Twilight sighs, :"If only Apple Bloom and Scootaloo had found that book sooner" Then looks up and round the room, with renewed determination."Spike! Take a letter..."

"Dear Princess Celestia:

I may have found the reason for Sweetie Belle's sudden and immense magical ability. Thanks to the rest of the Cutie Mark Crusaders for finding it. This song book has a similar signature as the comic book that turned us into Power Ponies. Unfortunately, a comparison is unlikely due to the comic book's disappearance.
I intend track down Sweetie Belle and try to match energy signatures between the young filly, and the songbook.

Signed,
Still your faithful student,
Princess Twilight Sparkle"

Author's Note

Credit:
Beer and Guitar picture belongs to Peter Griffin.
Used with permission.

Either I got bad ears or electronic music just sounds the same to me.
Tough choosing between: Themes from Airwolf, Beverly Hills Cop, and Miami Vice,
This old fogy is disappointed with himself for not picking anything more current,

My OC Wild Rover replaces Bon Bon as part of the main cast.
In the words of Ben "The Thing" Grimm: "What a revoltin' development!"

Hey, if Bo Diddly can sing about himself...
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BKYSAfbOCPc&list=FLxyizUZ_xXATRjMzXk6kN5w&index=5
The little girl on the hill makes me think of Megan from G1 for some reason.
http://www.deviantart.com/art/the-return-of-megan-211249564

Jukebox Hero replaces Chuck Berry's Johnny B. Goode
Needs more editing; But I think I got what I was aiming for.

There are times I feel like a marathon runner hitting the wall.
Writing while tired leads to trouble.

Bonus Tracks: Midnight Train to Georgia

Funky Bits and Pieces of Downtown

The Manehattan Project

Sweetie Belle and Vinyl Scratch are back in the music store, at the disc jockey's request.
The store manager/owner and a few other ponies watch as the musicians move electronic keyboards around until they are satisfied with the layout.

"Okay Sweetie, you ready? Then, light it up!" The pair of unicorn's horns glow, and their combined mystical energies touch the equipment;

Lipps Inc. - Funkytown

A member of the impromptu audience steps forward. The red coated earth pony introduces himself; "I am Town Crier. In charge of The Manehattan Promotional Board. I would like to use that song to promote the city. If you can come up with something else as well, that would be great. I'll pay double the going rate."
Sweetie Belle and Vinyl Scratch look at each other in astonishment, then silently nodded yes to Town Crier.

"Vinyl, you handle the deal while I work on that extra song." Sweetie Belle closes her eyes, feeling the energy and inspiration building within her. Any and all recording devices were turned on. She did not want to repeat this stunt.

"You're hired!" exclaims Town Crier.

"Thank you:" Sweetie said softly in a tired voice. "But, no thanks. I am quite happy being where I am right now."

With hope and despair in his voice, "Anytime you change your mind..."

****

Wild Rover watches and overhears his band mate, Lyra, argue with another mare; Who had taken a train ride here from some dinky little town near Canterlot. He mentally takes note of some of the words and phrases used. Then walks away towards his hotel room.

"Hello Rover. May I join you?"

"Hello Octavia." flashing a welcoming smile" You can join me anytime." Opens the door to his hotel room and they both enter.
Octavia looks around, and raises an inquisitive eyebrow at several string instruments that were scattered around the room. "I see you have a banjo and a violin, to go with your vulgar taste in electric guitars. How good are you with a bow?"

"I also have an acoustic guitar. I like mixing traditional and modern styles. Keeps things interesting. As for the violin, I am quite good with it. You play the cello, so you might be half as good as me."
The grey-coated earth pony narrowed her eyes at him."Oh. I don't think so. How bout we have a little contest?"
"Make it on live stage, and you got yourself a deal."
Octavia blinks and almost considers backing down. Then a secretive smile begins to form."I accept those conditions."

***
If I can make there, I'll make it anywhere

That night the band takes to the stage, with it's newest member.

Octavia looks over at Lyra with concern. Some of the words in the song match what she overheard Bon Bon and Lyra said to each other. "You okay Lyra?"
"Eventually. Lets just get through this first."
"I am gong to put Rover in his place." Wanders next to Sweetie belle and whispers in her ear, the plan. Then says loudly."Alright Rover, it is time to prove just how good you really are." Both musicians switch their instruments to violins.

Sweetie Belle watches the violinists get ready. Slowly lights up her horn and extends her mystical field over both, instead of just Octavia. She wanted both to be at their very best. Her Special Talent seems to enhance musical talent in others, as well as herself. The effects were more so if she did it consciously.

"I have to admit that you are the better violinist, Octavia." Wild Rover exchanges the violin for his electric guitar. "But, you can never match me when it comes to wielding an axe." Octavia nods in silent agreement.
"Lyra, for you, a small apology..."

Author's Note

The first time I heard "Downtown", I though it was an ad!
Leading to the creation of the first part of this chapter, and a slight reference to the "I Love New York" advertising campaign.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/I_Love_New_York

A day in the sun (Intermission)

After a quick band meeting, granting everypony a day off; Sweetie Belle watches fellow band members head out of the room to do their own thing. She follows, and goes off in her own direction.

Sweetie Belle walks down one of the many streets of Manehattan, with no real destination in mind.

From behind her, a voice, "Hello, can we talk?"

Sweetie Belle glances over at the yellow coated unicorn. "Um, sure. I am not doing anything at the moment.:"

"Oh good. I am Solid Gold, manager of Capitol Records, in Canterlot. I like what I hear and see."

Sweetie smiles shyly at the mare, "Except for my talent I am nothing special,"

"You and your band are special enough to be signed to major a record label."

The singer's smile grows "Oh thank you. I'll talk to the band tonight, and let you know what we decide."

Octavia Melody, with cello on her back, walks into the park near the hotel where they are staying. The grey earth pony desired something more sophisticated; but considering the neighborhood. There is no class to be had. With very little money to go upscale, she has to create her own class by practicing some classical music.

Lyra Heartstrings: grins as she heads towards the museum. She was able to get a major part of the band's spare change. May have to do some busking soon; if the concert promoters don't pay up. As Lyra steps in through the museum door, she shook her head. "Worry about it later."
Wandering through the exotic creature section."The Everfree Forest sure likes to throw up a lot of mystical mishaps." Aside from the minotaurs, bi-pedals seem to be rare. "Two legs good, four legs better?" Fortunately or unfortunately , she is unable to spot what she was looking for.

Vinyl Scratch looks around before stepping inside the comic book shop. She did not want her band mates and friends to know about her guilty pleasure.
Walking up to the counter and then asks the clerk; "Do you have the latest issue of Songbird?"
"We do, plus a crossover with the Power Ponies."
"Awesome. I'll take both!"
"Judging from your cutie mark, I can see why you like the singing superhero."

Wild Rover wanders alone down the street in a rare contemplative mood. He had some success, but there were times when he wrecked his good fortune. Now, with these new friends, the opportunities are simply boundless. But a tiny part of him worried that he will live up to his name, again, and ruin everything.

The band meets back in one of the larger hotel rooms.
Sweetie smiles at everyone, eager to spread the good news "Okay girls, Now, that we are all together, How was your day?"
"Hay, I am not a mare. I am all stallion!"
"Nah, you are one of us now" Vinyl grins at Wild Rover. He tries to frown, but seeing the accepting smiles from everypony in the room, made it hard to do so.

Author's Note

A short slice of life chapter.

Coming up with names for ponies is hard; But sticking with a musical theme kinda helped.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Solid_Gold_%28TV_series%29

I thought I was being original; forgot about the formerly named Screaming Mimi
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Songbird_%28comics%29

Wild Rover was originally intended to be a pony version of Roy Clark.

Only Time For Magic

The band stands outside the hotel, watching a colorful wagon go by. pulled by a blue coated unicorn. Then stops in the hotel's small parking lot. As the mare unhitches herself from her wagon, she spots the band watching. Then rears up on her hind legs, stretching her forelegs up and out in the air. "The Great and Powerful Trixie has arrived! Come watch the most powerful unicorn in Equestria perform for you tonight."

Sweetie Belle just rolls her eyes; As boastful as Rarity said she was. Then shrugged her shoulders. Unlike her sister, Sweetie knew you needed to have a bit of an ego in order to be on stage. And boasting is quite alright; As long as you can back it up. if necessary.
Wild Rover simply stares at the new arrival in a complete daze.
Vinyl Scratch yells "Yo Rover, don't go all wild on her.. She's not all that great, or powerful."

Later that day, The Band runs through a practice session.

The band notices the extra passion Wild Rover puts into the song, and begin to wonder who it was about.
With no pressing need, and a bit of boredom, Trixie Lulamoon watches them play, An idea begins to form. and as they take a break, the showmare approaches them.

"The Great and Powerful Trixie has a excellent proposal for you. How about joining my act? We'll call it "Trixie and The Band"
For a minute or two, the band stares at the stage magician in stunned silence.

"Despite our growing success, we can't go any lower with her; We have no class to begin with." comments Octavia.
Vinyl adds, "We could use a bit of sound and light for our show. But the decision is up to you, Sweetie."
Lyra and Rover are silent, for different reasons. The green unicorn has no real opinion, one way or the other. The black coated pegasus on the other hoof is smitten with this brash pony.

Sweetie Belle looks at her band, then at the showmare. "Okay, Trixie, you can join us, We could use your talents and experience, especial when we go on the road."
"Trixie accepts your part of the deal. But maybe Trixie should watch you perform live on stage first before making such a rash decision."

Later that night,The Band gives another small concert in Manehattan.
After some thinking before hand. Sweetie Belle sings the first song:

With Trixie in the audience, watching the show. Wild Rover sings the next song:

Princess Twilight Sparkle steps into the small theater , finally close to her goal; After having spotted that poster when she first arrived in Manehattan.
Twilight Sparkle got closer to the stage as the band performed, but used the shadows and other ponies to stay out of sight as long as possible. When she got close enough to use a subtle detection spell on Sweetie Belle, the Element of Magic pulled the magical songbook out of her saddlebag. Then carefully compared the mystical signatures between the book and the singer.
Twilight Sparkle nods to herself, just as she suspected; They matched! Sweetie Belle's talent seems so complex and powerful, It's a wonder that the young singer wasn't a Princess of Music.

When the band finished the latest song, Twilight Sparkle steps out in front of the stage, "Hello Sweetie Belle, we need to talk."

Sweetie stays up on the stage. "Hello Princess, go ahead and talk."

"Sweetie, that song book you found has greatly effected you. I want to study what it did to you, and maybe reverse it."

Sweetie Belle takes a defiant stance, having no desire to be a subject of study. Besides, she has grown to like her special talent. No way was she going to loss this now, along with her cutie mark."No. I am staying with the band."
The band members quietly gather around her in support.

To everypony's surprise, Trixie gets off her seat and approaches the stage, "The Great and Powerful Trixie with defend the young singer from the Tyrant Princess Twilight Sparkle."

Twilight face hoofs, This is not going the way she planned. Then looks at Trixie Lulamoon, "What happened to the 'Great and Apologetic Trixie?'"

Trixie flashes a brief apologetic smile, "Still working on that."

Vinyl Scratch steps in front of Sweetie Belle and addresses the Princess,"Why don't Trixie and me study Sweetie while on tour with the band. My knowledge of music, combined with Trixie's own magical experience; we can keep a good eye on her. "

Twilight thinks for a minute, and then nods. "Deal. As long as I receive regular reports."
The stage magician looked stunned for a moment, then smiles broadly. "The Great and Powerful Trixie would gladly help. Especially when it will improve the act, Trixie and The Band."
Sweetie Belle breathes a sigh of relief, then glares at Trixie, "Okay, Trixie; time to see if your magic can match the music."

Author's Note

Last part of the Manehattan arc

Yay! Finally got over that stumbling block. All that is left is (endless) editing.

Yes, my writing needs improvement; No need to mention that; But, do so anyways.
I might actually learn something, (As long as the comments are constructive)

This Wheel's on Fire

On the road to Detrot, a couple of days out of Manehattan; Trixie's wagon, pulled by her, stops. The band gets out and stretches their legs for a bit.

Vinyl Scratch smells smoke and runs to the source. "Hey, this wheel's on fire!" Then notices Trixie with a sheepish look, "Um, what happened?"

"Needed to change wheels, and got a little frustrated taking it off."

Sweetie Belle shakes her head at how this trip was going,"Okay, this may be a good a time to stop for a rest anyways. The wagon is a nice way to travel; If only it wasn't so crowded!"

Trixie briefly glares at Sweetie. "You could help pull. My magic may make the load lighter, but it is still hard, and boring, work pulling it long distances."

That night, the band sits around the campfire. Wild Rover brings a couple of instruments with him. He puts the guitar aside,and then plucks the single string attached to a wooden board,creating a buzzing single note.
"What the hay is that?" asks Trixie
Lyra answers before anyone else,"A monochord. an ancient musical and scientific laboratory instrument."
Wild Rover begins to sing.

"Well that song was different.and slightly depressing," comments Vinyl Scratch."Got any other song that would get this party started?"
Wild Rover nods as he grabs his guitar,"I might, and it seems appropriate."

Wild Rover hands Lyra the guitar, "Practice while I go and grab my banjo." He picks up the monochord as he heads for the wagon. Lyra strums the guitar, getting a feel for it.

Rover comes back with his banjo, "Not bad, Lyra." She smiles at the compliment."Okay, I am sure everypony has heard this song at summer camp."

After a couple more campfire songs, the band members settle down to sleep.
Princess Luna flies overhead checking up on the band after having read Princess Twilight Sparkle's letter to Princess Celestia. She was a bit concerned about Sweetie Belle's growing power as well.
Landing softly, and quietly walking among the sleeping band members. When near Sweetie Belle, the Princess of the Night subtly probes the singer. It wasn't just the raw power, but how complex and sophisticated Sweetie's talent was; Almost like Princess Mi Amore Cadenza's gift with love. Thankfully, nowhere near the power levels of any of the Princesses.

Luna raises an eyebrow as a mystical field seeps from the sleeping singer towards her follow band members. The Princess closes her eyes, and steps into her lesser known role, as the defender of dreams.
Carefully entering the now shared dreams of the band. This kind of thing was very rare; and only happens to those closely associated with each other, and under great deal of stress.

Sweetie Belle looks around. Why is she and the rest of the band in a classroom filled with such strange creatures? All of whom were wearing clothes. Lyra is grinning widely and vibrating with excitement. The rest of the band looks puzzled.
Then a similar, yet slightly older, creature steps into the room. A teacher?

Wild Rover approaches Sweetie Belle to ask what is is going on, the atmosphere and scene changes all around them.

As Lyra Heartstrings steps forward to explain what is happening; there is another shift,

Vinyl Scratch having a hint of what is going on, steps into the growing circle with a smile, eager to see whats next.

The disc jockey, grinning, turns to her friend, Octavia, "Come on, 'Tavi, your turn to join us,"
The classical cellist hesitates for a moment, "Oh all right, if you insist." The atmosphere and scene changes as Octavia joins with the rest of band.

Octavia cries "Why!? Such beautiful music used in a beastly manner like that!" The others are in despair as well; Even Lyra, with her obsession with humans, is crying.

Luna steps forward. "All this is a dream, a shared one at that."
Everypony turns, "Princess Luna!" and they all bow down to her.
Then Luna speaks in Royal Canterlot Voice, "Time For All of You to Wake Up...NOW!"

Trixie wakes up as well, "What is going on here?" Then bows as well. "Princess Luna!?"
"Sweetie Belle here has quite a gift for magic, especially when it comes to music.What surprises me, and likely everyone else here was the shared dreams. That only happens under extreme stress with close associates."

"Trixie sadly hasn't been with the band long enough to be friends." Shakes her head, then smiles "Trixie has her own dreams, some that might give Princess Twilight Sparkle nightmares. For Trixie is the most powerful unicorn in the world."

"Technically true." Luna nods at the boastful showmare, "But, don't let your arrogance make you forget that the new princess is still the Element of Magic."
With a contrite voice,"I won't"

Wild Rover gives Trixie a hug, "You are a friend, Trixie. I think the dreams were meant for musicians only." Directing a question to both Princess Luna and Sweetie Belle. "Care to explain?"

"Except for the last one, the dream sequences represent your own desires and personalities. Sweetie Belle wants to sing a style of music. Unless she really wants a physical chunk of earth." Everypony laughs.
"Can't have Tom, Rarity already has her hooves on him."
"Who's Tom?" asks Wild Rover.
"Discord's trick with my sister. She thought a huge boulder was a diamond." Everyone chuckles lightly, imaging the cruel but funny scene.

"What's with the clothed bipeds?" Asks Rover, The pegasus was quite impressed with this Waylon, and how he played the guitar. "They sure can play music."

"As Miss Lyra Heartstrings would rightly tell you, they are humans. A long lost race in this world, but alive in others."

Octavia asks, "What was with the last part? Why so violent?"

Luna nods thoughtfully. "I can't really explain why. But, remember: Humans and ponies are both complex creatures, similar in many ways to each other. .
Equestria wasn't always a paradise, especially during Discord's reign. Some ponies, including Celestia and myself, had to do terrible things in order to have a chance at taming the land." She shakes her head to dispel some of the dark memories.
"Humans have their own struggles. In some universes, they have been able to tame their more darker impulses. Although they are still predators at heart; Very much like griffins. We ponies have our own natural instincts to overcome as well. In order to build and maintain a stable civilization, the struggle never really ends."

"Will we meet them?" asks Lyra, hopefully

Luna shakes her head no, "Unlikely. solid objects have very little chance of crossing over into other universes. And they rarely survive intact. Only concepts, dreams and ideas are able to crossover dimensional barriers. They can be picked up by a few special ponies; Aside from my sister and myself." Then Luna frowns, "And Discord as well."
Then the Princess smiles softly at Lyra and Sweetie. "Lyra Heartstrings and Sweetie Belle are two here who can also do the same."

Luna starts stretching her wings. "I must go, I have other duties to preform."
She flies away as they all say good bye.

Author's Note

Chapter title is named after a song written by Bob Dylan and Rick Danko.

"This Wheel's on Fire: Levon Helm and the Story of The Band" is the 1993 autobiography of actor and musician Levon Helm.

I am really struggling with sentence structures, and spelling! (Thank goodness for spell checkers)

Switched "dream" videos for Lyra. From "R.O.C.K. in the U.S.A. (A Salute To 60's Rock)" to "We Didn't Start The Fire"
Trying to give a sense of human history, Although, some of the events mentioned may fly over the heads of some of us. (including me!)
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/We_Didn%27t_Start_the_Fire

Sounds of the Motor City in Four Part Harmony.

Four Part Harmony (Intermission)

Trixie's trailer arrives on the outskirts of Detrot. "Any idea where we can park the trailer?"
"How about a park?" suggests Octavia,
"Don't trailer parks attract tornadoes?" asks Lyra
"In Trixie's case, it's ursas." jokes Vinyl.
Trixie grimaces, "Please don't remind me."

After some searching, they park the trailer in an abandoned, empty, lot.
Sweetie Belle watches Trixie cast an illusion spell, hiding the trailer and its contents from plain sight. Then looks at the rest of the band. "Everypony remember where we parked."

Sweetie Belle threw the newspaper into the trashcan in disgust. For such a booming city, there is surprisingly very few jobs available, They must have been snapped up so quickly. What's worse for the band; All the concert venues of any type are booked; Even some of the dive bars that were likely to be worse then the Blue Parasprite back home in Ponyville.
Sweetie sighed as she got back on her tired hooves to pound the pavement again, in search for work of any kind.

Trixie Lulamoon and Wild Rover walked down the streets; searching each others eyes more often then the want ads posted on some of the walls.

Lyra Heartstrings grins as she watches the new couple walk away together. As Rover and Trixie fade away in the distance, so does her smile. Magically manipulating pen and parchment out of the saddlebag she is wearing. Lyra composed a letter to Bon Bon. Sometimes drawing a line through a word or sentence,
When done, she folded up the letter, to be mailed latter. Placing it, and along with the pen, back into her saddlebag.

Octavia Melody looked up at the sign."Hitsville, Equestria. Quite pretentious for such a small recording studio." The cellist shrugged her shoulders; She has been accused of the same.

"Well, we have to start somewhere, All the other places have been booked for weeks. We don't have the money to wait for a random opening. Great! I am talking to my self!" Shaking her head as she goes through the door "Hope I don't start answering myself."

The manager, Berry Hits, greets Octavia, a fellow earth pony. "Hello, what can I do for you?"

"Hello, my name is Octavia Melody. The Band, which is the actual name by the way," The musician briefly shakes her head, "would like to record a single or two; to be played on the radio. Unfortunately, we don't have plenty of cash. The promoter from our last concert is slow in paying us."

"We might work something out, depending on how well your group sounds. I am looking for new acts. If you are as good as you look and sound..."

A dangerous glint appears in Octavia's eyes, "Don't get any bright ideas! I am only here to play music. And Sweetie Belle, the lead singer, is not so sweet when band members are taken advantage of."

Berry raises his right front hoof, "Easy there.Those thoughts barely had a chance to form. Besides, I don't have time for that sort of nonsense. This operation is barely surviving as it is."

Meanwhile back in Ponyville...

Button Mash was actually cleaning his room at a good and efficient pace. With Sweetie Belle away, his passion for video games has somehow diminished; Which gave him the opportunity to get into other kinds of trouble he normally didn't get into.
His mother was worried that that he was sick or something. Button nodded to himself; Yeah, he caught a bug, the Love Bug. How gross!

Sounds of the Motor City

"Octavia, are you sure we can afford this? We simply do not have the money for a recording session. Even if its in... " Pauses as Sweetie Belle looks over the old building. " a place like this."

"I made a deal. If they like one or two songs of our songs, they will record us at a discount. I haven't made many recordings, But I doubt that is a normal arrangement."

"If this back fires..."

Wild Rover.said with reassurance,"Don't worry. Sweetie; With your Special Talent, they may even record us for free." Then he smiles, "I may even have the perfect song right now.:"

During the break, Lyra asks, "Rover, is it true?"

"What is true?"

"That Trixie and you ran into your mother."

"Yeah, and lets just say that they did not get along very well, at all."

After the break,Wild Rover records another song

Berry Hits, approaches, the band. "I heard him sing a couple of songs, and they are good. But, I would like to hear one of the ladies sing as well."
Sweetie Belle nods at the manager,"I have a song I would like to sing."

As soon as Sweetie is done Berry Hits shouts, "Print it! Print them all. We got ourselves a winner here."
Octavia approaches, with a dangerous glint in her eyes. "So the deal is still on? A discount for three songs."

Berry Hits knew that look in her eyes. Despite hard times, he tried to run an honest business,He had no intention of cheating."Forget the discounts. I am letting you record these free, I will make up the costs of the recordings when we sell millions of copies!"

The band cheers, realizing they may have hit the big time.
Even Trixie lets loose a few fire works, to the horror of the record manager. Fortunately for the studio equipment, the display was an illusion.

Author's Note

A couple of (planned) chapters that I merged into one.
Still editing to clean up the collision,

Bonus Track: I Heard It Through The Grapevine

Night and Day in Cloudsdale

Under Cloudsdale

The band members, along with Trixie, their unofficial tour manager, look up at the floating city of Cloudsdale.
"How do us non-flyers get up there?", asks Sweetie Belle.
Wild Rover answers, "I can get you up to the city, But, the tricky part is staying up there."
Trixie points to herself, "Speaking of tricks; Trixie will cast a cloud walking spell on all those without wings. Then Rover will really earn his, by carrying us all up there."
Octavia asks, "What about the trailer?"
"Unfortunately, Trixie hasn't found a way to take it up with her; Yet. That is one aspect Trixie dislikes about Cloudsdale,; Aside from that other place, this was Trixie's least successful show; due to the shortage of my usual props."

After casting a series of spells on non-pegasi, and their stuff they are taking up with them; Trixie worns, "Remember, this spell is limited to about a day; So be careful where you walk, or you might fall through the clouds."
" You know, we could have rented a balloon; Instead of working me like a dog, carrying all of you, and your luggage, up here to Cloudsdale.."
Vinyl Scratch comments, " Rover is the usual name for a dog."

In Another Pegasus Pub

The Band looks over the crowd in the small pub as they take to the stage.
Two unknown ponies sit down next to Trixie at a table near the stage.
"You're Trixie Lulamoon?", inquires the new white coated pony with a pink mane.
Grinning, "You have heard of the Great and Powerful Trixie!"
The thestral next to her asks, "What are you doing up here in a pegasus bar like this?"
The blue unicorn points to herself, then at the band on the stage. "Trixie is their tour manager, as well as their special effects artist for the bigger concerts. May Trixie know who you two are?"
The pegasus points to herself, then at the thestral, "Sunny Days, and my sister, Windy Nights.

Windy Nights has a huge smile as she leaves the dance floor and heads back to her table.
"Sister, I didn't know you can dance!"
"I had to, the song moves me."
Sunny Days gets on the dance floor as the next song starts.

Sweetie Belle jumps off the stage and embraces her orange coated pegasus friend. "Scoots, what are you doing here?"
"I'm with Rainbow Dash for the next Wonderbolts show."
"Want to pound the drums for our next song?"
"Sure."
They both get on stage. and Sweetie introduces their guest drummer, "This my dear friend, and fellow Crusader, Scootaloo."

Wild Rover steps up to the mic for the next song.

Sweetie takes over the front mic, "All right ponies; last song for the night, and your last chance to dance!"

The band join Trixie and her two new friends, Ordering the last round of drinks for themselves.
Sunny, "My sister and I have some connections; Maybe we can get you to perform for the Wonderbolts at the colosseum here in Cloudsdale."
Scootaloo thrusts her front hooves into the air, "That would be awesome! I'll see if Rainbow Dash can help set this up."

The Cloudeseum Concert.

Sweetie Belle smiles at Spitfire and the rest of the Wonderbolts. They begin their aerial stunts as she starts to sing:

The Wonderbolts land in their seats as Wild Rover steps up to the microphone, "This is for one of the ponies who helped us make this concert possible."

Sweetie Belle switches places with Wild Rover, "This is for another pony who helped put this together."

Sweetie waves Wild over, "Let's slow things down a bit, for our next song we'll sing."

Wild Rover points the microphone at the band's manager and illusionist. "This one is from me to Trixie."

Sweetie Belle takes center stage. "The next two songs are for Scootaloo and the Wonderbolts, especially the last one."

As the last notes of the song drift through the air, two griffons land in front of the stage breathing hard, and looking exhausted.
"Gilda!" Rainbow Dash lands in front of the griffons. "What are you doing here?"
"Let, huh, me. huh, catch, huh, my breath."
"My name's Gabby." said the grey feathered griffon. "I flew with Gilda to ensure the Princesses get our message,"
Spitfire pulls off his sunglasses and seriously looks at the griffons, "What message would that be?"
Gilda answers, "A new griffon general, named Garibaldi, plans to reunite the Griffon Kingdom. He wants to include Griifonstone. But, he will have to fly and or march though Equestria to do it. Most of the time, you ponies are a bunch of losers. But, that does not mean I want a war between our people."
Sunny Days and Windy Nights approach. "Me and my sister will fly to Canterlot to inform Celestia and Luna."
Spittfire nods, and looks at his teammate. "Rainbow Dash. Please inform Princess Twilight Sparkle what is happening.."
The blue coated pegasus, with a multi-colored mane, gives a sharp salute then rockets into the air. and flies down towards Ponyvile.
Sweetie Belle looks at her fellow band members , and Trixie. "Let's head to Griffonstone. We may not be able to do much, but we may be able to slow things down to buy time for the Princesses."

Author's Note

After ages, a wild chapter appears.
I am not that happy with this chapter; my paragraphs are a pathetic mess. I am still confused about separating speaking lines.

Bonus Tracks:
Another Irish Drinking Song by Da Vinci's Notebook
The Irish Pub by The High Kings

Griffon Risorgimento

Avengers Assemble!

The Band arrives in Griffonstone after a long walk from the train station, who's railway tracks have not yet reach the former griffon capitol.
A very pink earth pony suddenly appears among the band members, "Hiya everypony, I'm Pinkie Pie. Welcome to Griffonstone! You arrived just in time for the biggest surprise party I ever organized on such short notice."

Sweetie Belle tries to interrupt Pinkie's flow of words before it becomes a flood; "Pinkie, the griffons may not care for parties; Unless you count war parties."

"Nonsense, everypony loves a party. I got food and games ready to go."
Octavia glares at the Pink One, then takes a calming breath; Trying to put Pinkie Pie's involvement in the disastrous Grand Galloping Gala a few years ago, on the back burner; "Hope you have included some music. We are here to perform, if nothing else."

"Oh, I hope the new griffons are willing to participate. This may become the biggest bash in Equestria's history."

"Speaking of new griffons, Trixie sees that they have arrived." The showmare points down the street, as a virtual army streams into Griffonstone. Most of them wearing red scarfs around their necks, and a gold ring on one of their claws.
Wild Rover does a quick and dirty count. "There may be a thousand of them."

"More the merrier!" Pinkie Pie rushes towards what she assumes was their leader.

Gilda intercepts Pinkie's rash rush as she lands in front of the growing crowd of griffons."Slow your roll, Pinkie. No need to rush things." Gilda turns towards the lead griffon. "General Garibaldi, I presume?"

"Yes. And what's with the pathetic ponies here in Griffonstone."

A buzzing sound rises, then stops as Scootaloo and her scooter suddenly appears before everyone; covering those around her with a cloud of dust from the dusty trail she blazed. "We are here as guests; More importantly we are here to help save Griffonstone. If we can't, we will damn well avenge it!"

The general gives Scootaloo an incredulous look, "How? I have an army."
"We have an Alicorn!"

Princess Twilight Sparkle lands in front of everyone, "Actually, we have four alicorns; Five if you count Flurry Heart, but she's still a foal. General Garibaldi, how about we sit down and negotiate some sort of peaceful deal?" Twilight looks at all the red scarfed griffons. "In the meantime, your followers can enjoy the festivities Pinkie Pie has set up here."
Gilda leads the general and the princess into her bake shop for the negotiations between them.

Showdown at the Shindig

Pinkie Pie glances up and watches a threstral circle overhead a couple of times before landing.
"I am seeing a lot of bat ponies these days." comments Sweetie Belle.
Ignoring the common insult, the new-comer inquires, "I hear you need a few singers for this get together.";
"Hello Night Rose; You're a singer as well as a member of the Shadowbolts?!"
"Wait, how did you know..."
Sweetie Belle covers Night Rose's mouth with her hoof, "Best not to ask how Pinkie knows or does things, that way leads to madness; Just ask Princess Twilight Sparkle."

Pinkie exclaims, "Time for us to get this party started!"
The three ponies stomp together in rhythm towards a recently constructed open air stage.

A griffon lands on the stage after the song. "My name's Geovonni, and I am second in command of this flock of wild feathers." He nods towards the large group of red-scarfed griffons. "Now, its our turn to perform. Let me introduce Arturo; he's our best singer."

Pinkie Pie bounces back onto the stage, and briefly talks to the audience. "Who has the moody blues? Wild Rover and The Band will tell you."

Geovonni whispers in Pinkie Pie's ear. "Let's do something different together."
Pinkie nods yes with a smile, and motions to her fellow MC to take the stage for the next introduction.

Princess Twilight Sparkle. General Garabldi, and Gilda walk out of the bakery. She looks around and smiles, "I see everyone is getting along. The general and me have reached an agreement, although a temperately one. More negations will be in Canterlot, with rest of the Princesses. "

General Garibaldi assembles his men.
"Fall In!" He then turns to the ponies and the local griffons, "I leave you with a warning, and a gift." He raises his fist into the air; the gold ring on his clawed finger glitters in the sunlight. Every red scarfed griffon does the same, and they all shout, "Long Live the Legion!"
Then they begin to sing:

Twilight watches a legion of griffons take to the air as their song ends, and they fly towards what she presumes is their home.
Twilight turns towards Sweetie Belle, "You and your friends are required to be in Canterlot; For a discussion with the Princesses, including Candance and me."

Author's Note

The Chapter Title is in reference to the Italian Unification, also known as the Risorgimento, ( meaning "Resurgence").

A story recommendation: The 8th Rank by Winter Quill.
Which sort of inspired this chapter.

I slide in a couple of small science fiction references; Let's see if you can spot them.

Summertime Blues

Sweetie Belle is laying on the floor of the Cutie Mark Crusaders Clubhouse, alone, flipping through the pages of a song book she bought from a music store.
The other members of the CMC were busy elsewhere. Apple Bloom is doing repairs on the Sweet Apple Acres farm; Due to their last crusade for their cutie marks. Scootaloo is with Rainbow Dash celebrating her recently acquired cutie mark.

Who knew pigs can actually fly?! And without Discord's help too! Thanks to excellent teamwork: Sweetie Belle's idea and planning; AB's construction of the catapults, And finally, Scootaloo's amazing rescue of the crash-landing pigs, with the use of the orange pegasus' scooter.

Sweetie sighed as she flipped another page with her snout, not bothering with magic from her horn or even one of her hooves. Feeling a bit bored, and lonely. “ One down, two to go. I doubt Apple Bloom would get hers. Doing boring chores.Yuck.” Thinking of the amount of damage the crash-landing pigs did ”Then again, there maybe a few surprises under all that rubble.” Sweetie made a small smile, and wished her friend luck on gaining a cutie mark while making countless repairs.

The young, white coated, unicorn glances at the next page, reading the title of the song printed on it. "Yeah, it's turning into a cruel summer."
Having read a couple of Rarity’s romance novels, imaging herself in the song writer’s horseshoes; Adding another layer of feelings on top of the absence of her fellow crusaders. Unnoticed, her horn lights up as she begins to sing.

Done singing the song, Sweetie shook her head hard, as if trying to break out of a trance. “Must be going crazy with loneliness. Thought I heard some ponies singing along with me.” With a half-hearten glance at her flank, not really expecting anything; her jaw drops in surprise.

After cheering loudly, “I got a cutie mark!” Sweetie Belle quickly got up and ran out of the clubhouse, racing across Sweet Apple Acres towards the main buildings near the center of the farm; eager to tell Apple Bloom and her family.
Thoughts of what to do after telling Scootaloo and Rarity began to appear. “Took long enough to get it. But what to do now that I have my cutie mark? Worry about that later!” Almost matching the galloping speeds of Applejack and Rainbow Dash, two of the most athletic ponies she knew.

As Sweetie Belle got near the main barn on the farm, she noticed Apple Bloom with a hammer in her mouth nailing boards together. “Apple Bloom, I got it!”

The young earth pony dropped the hammer from her mouth. “Got what?”

Sweetie showed her flank. “Hey, you got one too!”

Apple Bloom glances at her own flank.

“Well I’ll be…No wonder I was having an easy time putting this place back together.”

“I gotta tell Rarity and Scoots! Bet, I’ll be there and back before you are done.”

Apple Bloom grins at her fellow Crusader. ”Challenge accepted.”
Sweetie Belle races down the main path on the farm towards Ponyville, the sounds of Apple Bloom hammering away quickly fading.

Sweetie Belle enters the Carousel Boutique, and her home, ”Rarity, are you busy?”

“Just a minute, dear.”Sweetie watches as her sister moves a couple of rolls of fabric with her magic,. placing them on the shelves. “There, done for the day. I have enough material for the next project, or two. “Rarity looked at her younger sister, and did a double take; “Oh my, is that what I think it is?”

“Yep, and it’s not fake. I wasn’t in the mood for tricks at the time I got it.”

“I can see that. It is no way related to that terrifying tale Applejack told me” Rarity makes an overly dramatic shudder. “Unless you are planning to sing about pigs that can fly?” Rarity gave Sweetie a questioning look. Wondering how her sister escaped some sort of punishment, when she was the real mastermind behind that crazy attempt for the Crusaders to gain their cutie marks.

“Eeenope,” imitating Apple Bloom’s brother, Big McIntosh. “But thanks for the idea.”Sweetie grins back at Rarity. “I got to find Scootalo and tell her that the Cutie Mark Crusaders no longer have blank flanks.” Smiling broadly

“Apple Bloom has a cutie mark too?”

“An apple, of course. Plus a paintbrush. Might be from rebuilding the fence..among other things." Sweetie Belle winched at the memory of the messy aftermath; including the inevitable tree sap.
“See you later Sis.” Sweetie Belle turns around and heads out the door in search of Scootaloo.

Author's Note

Credits:
Cutie Marks created by Creshosk
http://creshosk.deviantart.com/

Chapter Title Track: Summertime Blues by Eddie Cochran

First time submitting to this site, so help would be appreciated.
Plus, of course, constructive criticism.

Ugh, my attempts at editing is making things worse!

Dueling Strings

Sweetie Belle wanders into the park in search of Scootaloo. Stopping by one of the park benches just as a pair of musicians start up a new tune. Lyra Heartstrings, a green coated unicorn, was sitting in her weird upright way on the bench holding a lyre in her hooves and letting the magic from her horn pluck the strings. The grey earth pony, Octavia Melody, stood on her hind legs playing the cello.

When they finished Lyra grins at Octavia. "One more song, as a challenge? Bet you can't keep up copying me." Then plucked the strings. Octavia nods with a disdainful sniff and copies the cords.
Lyra plucks a few more strings, this time faster and longer. As they continue playing off each other, the tempo picking up speed until the unicorn ends the song with a fast flourish.

Some of the crowd drops bits into the two tip jars set aside by the musicians. Most of the ponies are amazed that Octavia came close to matching the fast paced finale despite being an earth pony.

Sweetie Belle smiles at the musicians, "You two are good!, Can I sing a song with you?"

Lyra shrugs with a wide grin, "Sure, why not?" Octavia flashes a small smile and nods in agreement. Both prepare their instruments, Unnoticed by many, Sweetie Belle's horn slowly lights up again as she starts to sing.

Afterwards, a white coated unicorn with electric-blue mane and wearing large purple shades, approaches the musicians "Cool stuff! We should all get together and form a band. We'll Wub Equestria!"

Octavia put her hoof on her chin in a thoughtful manner, and after a moment nodded, "This is one of those rare times, Vinyl, that one of your suggestions is actually agreeable."

Sweetie Belle jumps up and down in excitement"What do we call ourselves?"

Lyra flashes a huge grin. "The Band."

Octavia simply shakes her head, "I suppose there is virtue in simplicity. Unless. we want to go through the hassle of a contentious contest."

Vinyl Scratch's own grin grew. New material to work with. "Tomorrow, how about we meet back at mine and Tavi's place for practice and a recording or two?"

Octavia gives a long suffering sigh, covering up a tiny smile. "Why does she always shorten my name?"
Sweetie Belle chuckles along with Lyra as she goes back to looking for her friend. Scootaloo.

Author's Note

The Band is, of course, named after the real world version.