//------------------------------//
// Hint of the past 
// Story: Keys to the Heart 
// by BakaBoy 
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The applause was tremendous. 

Although it was typical for a performance to receive an applause of a similar nature and so was something that Frederic heard all the time there was one major difference, it was all directed solely at him. Taking a bow, Frederic could not help but swell with pride and joy from the reaction he had received from the crowd.

To say he was happy was an understatement, he was absolutely elated. It had been a long time since Frederic had played a solo piece. Piano's among ponies tended to be a group instrument, especially for Earth ponies since they usually were unable to manipulate the piano and its various assortment of keys to their full extent. Pegasi and Unicorns have the advantage of being able to use prehensile wings or precise magic respectively. Of course, all this did not really matter if you were a master pianist like Frederic.

Frederic wasn't exactly arrogant, he certainly was proud though, having been taught by high-society parents tends to create a sense of pride in one's self. However, his pride was not one of empty value, he fought for his place in the Canterlot music society. Years of dedicated study in playing the piano along with the some of the best music schools and the best tutors money could buy, wealth tended to help in the training of a prodigy.

Sometimes Frederic regretted those parts of his life, especially his childhood which was nearly non-existent from the rigorous tuition he received. Only ponies in a similar situation to him were ever considered his friends, specifically ponies like the members in his quartet. There is a reason they all work so well together, each and every one of them knew the similar feeling of regret upon reflection of their past and so they all understood each other. They understood the pain and frustration that hours upon hours of constant practice would give, they understood the crippling solitude that was felt nearly all the time, they understood why there was a near infinite amount of dedication that they each gave to their respective instruments. But most importantly they all knew what it felt like to be standing in the spotlight, to hear the applause of the crowd, to see the sheer numbers that acknowledge the amount of skill that the performer has in their craft.

To feel that all those wasted years paid off for something.

Each and every quartet member knew the feeling, it was a topic rarely discussed but was clear to see on each member. Every single one of the members were a master in their craft, years of practice honing their skills to be as close to perfection as a mere mortal could ever hope to achieve. 

The applause slowly died away, the audience had expressed their thanks and were clearly wanting more. Fancypant's quickly trotted up to the edge of the stage, signalling Frederic to retreat momentarily. "Ladies and Gentlecolts, may I say that it has been my absolute pleasure to host such a musical gem for tonight's entertainment!" said Fancypants, the way his voice carried showed years of experience in addressing crowds. 

In the meantime Frederic trotted behind the curtain towards the backstage, he was glad to see that the rest of the quartet were ready. Octavia and Harpo were both helping each other with stretches, it was strenuous work standing on their hindlegs for a performance, especially for a full concert. Beauty Brass was also preparing as well, breathing exercises tended to help her not to pass out mid performance from lack of breath. Frederic trotted towards the group, a small smile on his lips, when an alabaster hoof timidly nudged him on his shoulder blade. 

"That was pretty smooth playing there" Said Vinyl, though she did lack the Baltimare accent that was present before. She gave a small yet sincere smile, it was a warming sight for Frederic. There was something strangely entrancing about the way she smiled and it seemed rather nostalgic, like a distant memory that was just out of reach. 

"...played the piano for so long"

Realizing that he had spaced out Frederic quickly blinked away the small haze that seemed to be clouding his vision, Vinyl had already realized Frederic's absent-mindedness and was smirking as he recovered. Seeing the smirk Frederic realized that he had been caught day-dreaming and gave a sheepish grin in response.

"Sorry, would you kindly repeat that? My mind seems to have joined the pegasi for a second".

Vinyl started giggling softly, playfully punching Frederic on his chest. "You really haven't changed much have ya Freddy" her Baltimare accent was definitely there this time, but Frederic's mind was currently occupied by what Vinyl just said. Apparently Frederic had known Vinyl some time ago but currently Frederic did not have a single clue as to when he and Vinyl had met.

"Wait, what do you mean..." Frederic began, he was promptly cut off by a grey hoof grabbing his shoulder blade. A glaring Octavia stood behind him, her cello could be seen on the stage waiting to be played along with Beauty Brass, who seemed curious about what was happening, and Harpo, who was impatiently tapping his hoof and glaring straight at Frederic.

"Come along now Frederic you are keeping the crowd waiting" hissed Octavia, the irony was not lost on Frederic, he was about to retort when suddenly Vinyl spoke up, her voice equally laced with venom. "I'm sure Freddy doesn't have to have you drag him onstage, it would look pretty stupid too don't you think?".

The air between the two mares seemed to heat up exponentially. Unfortunately for Frederic he was right between the two and they both seemed to take no notice of his increasing discomfort. However, it did confuse him that they both appeared to be fighting over his name for whatever reason. His thoughts were shoved aside by his priorities when he heard the amused chuckling of the crowd, it seemed that Fancypants was delaying for them for as long as possible. Not wanting another incident to occur, which would delay the performance even further, Frederic decided to diffuse the situation as quickly as possible.

"Very well then Octavia, lets not delay any further shall we?" Frederic said briskly before trotting towards his piano hoping to direct the attention of both mares to the stage while also hoping that he wouldn't hear any sounds of impending doom and destruction behind him. He was immensely relieved when he saw Octavia just a few paces behind him, although her face was tinted slightly red from what appeared to be barely contained anger. Vinyl was no better, stomping back towards her equipment.

Frederic sighed, 'This is definitely going to be an interesting night'. He didn't even want to start imagining what it would be like after all the performances were done, there was no need to restrain yourself if you didn't have any significant events afterwards.

Dismissing the distracting thoughts, Frederic went up to the piano and sat comfortably on his stool. After a moment to make sure the rest of the quartet were ready he signaled to Fancypants, who was still standing on the stage, to begin his introduction. 'Better get this over and done with as soon as possible I suppose'

"Ladies and Gentlecolts! It is my great pleasure to bring to you today Canterlot's finest musical quartet!"

After a small applause, followed by Fancypants' exit of the stage, the quartet started to play...