Two Musical Notes
“So when are you going to tell me where we are going?” Octavia asked nervously as Sonata led her through the empty parking lot of their high school.
“Patiences,” Sonata said giggled. Barely able to contain her excitement. “I promise, you won’t regret this.” She frowned as Octavia lowered her head. “Hey, if you’re not comfortable with sneaking out yet-”
“No!” Octavia insisted as she came to a stop looking around the vacant lot. Not that she was surprised, it being a Saturday morning of a three day weekend. Her parents were away for it all, and all her new friend Sonata had told her was to pack a small bag and meet her at the school that morning. “No,” she continued, “This is good for me. Still...”
Sonata walked up to Octavia and, patting her shoulder, gave her a reassuring smile. “Well I’m glad you came. Just one step at a time, okay?”
Octavia smiled back. It was a unique situation, becoming friends with the former siren. What started as little more than a sort of villain reform program from the spectacular seven, had come down to this; finding an opportunity to not have to do what her parents told her to do for three days, and so far not knowing just what they would be doing.
“Well then, let’s not keep me waiting.” Octavia said, taking in a breath and tugging on her neck tie.
With that, Sonata skipped a little while her friend followed behind.
“So,” Octavia started with some small talk, “How’s the new apartment?”
Sonata stopped her skipping. “It’s fine. Quiet without Aria or Adagio.”
“Oh,” Octavia said. “Is that a good, or bad thing?”
“Neither,” Sonata shrugged. “Just something new. Oh good, they’re here!” She beamed, as they rounded to the font of the school, and the wondercolt statue.
Not sure what to expect, Octaiva looked ahead to see, well, herself basically. Standing in front of the statue, was Sunset Shimmer, Twilight, no, not what she recognized as the human one. This one was clearly the pony princess. She could tell both from the way she dressed and stood. However, that was nothing, next to what she was able to process rather quickly, was likely her own pony counterpart.
“So we won’t be staying here long?” the counterpart asked, holding out her hands. “I am not sure if I would like,” she blinked, and looked to Sonata, and her human counterpart.
As they walked forward, the human Octavia stared as well. Likewise, her counterpart was taller. Not by a large margin, but that along with her outfit, jeans with black vest over a white shirt and a golden heart shaped necklace in place of a bow tie.
“Um,” Sonata said, kicking her feet, “surprised?”
“Very,” human Octavia muttered. Breaking her counterparts' gaze to look at Sunset and princess Twilight. “What’s going on?”
“Ah, yes,” Twilight nodded. “So, um, well-”
“I can take over from here, Princess.” Pony Octavia said, stepping forward and reaching out a hand. “So, you’re my human counterpart, yes?”
“Um, yes.” Human Octavia gaped. “But, how would you-”
“I can explain a little better.” Sunset butted in. “So, Sonata was talking abou-“ there was a nudge from Twilight as Sunset seemed to remember something. “Well how you’re into classical music. So, the three of us,” she motioned to herself, Princess Twilight, and Sonata, “Came up with this crazy idea.”
“Basically,” Sonata added, “How would you like to spend our three day weekend in Equestria and get the chance to see yourself perform?” For further demonstration, she pulled out a pair of tickets.
Octavia took a step back, her mind racing a mile a minute. “What? I, I mean-”
Sonata frowned. “Oh, sorry. I really wanted it to be a surprise, and I’d thought you’d love it.”
“No no,” human Octavia said, pulling at her hair. “I love it, but… You really didn’t have too. I mean, um… Being a horse for a weekend. Wouldn’t that be werid?” She chuckled nervously.”
Sunset, Twilight and pony Octavia looked at each other.
“Would you three give me a minute alone with,well, myself.” Pony Octavia asked, realizing how strange it sounded.
“Sure,” Sunset nodded, as she took Sonata’s hand, assuring it would be fine as she and Twilight walked to the other side of the statue.
“So,” the human Octavia said after an awkward pause. “You’re… Me? As an adult, and not, well, um…”
“If you’re wondering just how similar we are,” pony Octavia answered softly. Looking around, she pulled up her left pant leg, to reveal a long healed bruise. The reaction of her human counterparts face was all that needed to be said.
“I suppose that answers enough, nor is there much need to figure out what's the same and different.” Pony Octavia sighed as she lowered her pant leg.
“Yeah,” human Octavia said, crossing her arms. “So I guess the idea behind this was to show me how wonderful life could be as a successful musician?”
“Eh, I’d be lying if I tried to say no.” Pony Octavia answered, stepping forward. “I know it may be scary. I had to deal with the same things you did, and overcame them. I had friends who helped me, and so do you.”
Human Octavia looked up. “And, you’re happy?”
Pony Octavia hesitated. “I wouldn’t say things are perfect, but my life is happy, yes.” She smiled dreamily, touching her necklace. “I remember the first time I did something like this with my own friends. Not sure how many you’d recognize, but they got me out, and from there, I knew what my first taste of freedom truly was. After that, well, let me show you.” She held out a hand. “if you will let me.”
Human Octavia looked hesitant at the hand, but in the end, took it.
****
And so, they went through the portal and into the pony world. Which caused a stir when Pony Octavia, who from then on they simply called Tavia, let out a scream at Sonata’s siren form. Where as human Octavia, now called Octy, wasn’t as put off as Sonata expected, to her relief. However, to keep ponies from asking questions, Princess Twilight had borrowed a fragment of Queen Novas pearl, and after explaining that story, turned Sonata into a regular looking blue unicorn. To which Octy couldn’t help but giggle and call cute, much to Sonata’s delight.
As for Octy herself, a simple mane dye and cutie mark cover up, and the three were more than eager to head to their actual destination, Canterlot.
“Oh wow,” Sonata and Octy said as they looked out the window of the train at the approaching castle.
“It is always a sight.” Tavi mused.
“No kidding.” Octy blinked. “Hang on,” she said looking to Sonata. “I thought you were a native.”
Sonata blushed. “Well, I mean, not everyone has ever been to Canterlot. Plus, when me and my sisters were… You know, Canterlot hadn’t even existed.”
Octy let out an, ah, as the train pulled into the city station. “So, what’s on the agenda for our first big day in the city?” Octy asked.
“Well, what would you like to do?” Tavia asked.
Octy paused. “Um, well,” she looked nervously at Sonata, tugging at her bow tie. “Honestly, whenever I’m on such a trip, my parents would already have everything planned out, and deviation wasn’t very acceptable.”
“You’re kidding?” Sonata said, slackjawed. “That’s awful.”
“You don’t say,” Octy said, gripping her seat.
“Sorry,” Sonata said, covering her mouth. Octy cringed.
“Well how about lunch and I pick?” Tavia threw out. “Already had something in mind anyways. Then maybe we can try the boardwalk for an hour or two, see what there is to see, before checking into the hotel?”
“Okay.” Sonata nodded vigorously.
“Sure,” Octy sulked.
Sonata and Tavia frowned. Sonata started to say something, but held back when Tavia shook her head and mouthed, ‘give her time.’ Sonata reluctantly leaned against her seat.
****
“Oh this is amazing!” Sonata smiled as she dug into her savory dish.
“Yes,” Tavia nodded. “Funny thing too; Canterlot has only recently seen a surge of food innovation in the last couple of years.” She sipped on her drink. “Something to do with one or two of element bearers and a thai themed restaurant. Not sure which one, but maybe if I remember we can give that a try.”
Sonata looked up. “Thai, huh? Never had that before. You ever… Octy?”
Octy jolted at her name as she was scanning the restaurant. “What? Um, I mean,” She let out a cough and tried to act all proper. “it sounds like a marvelous idea.” She paused when neither said anything. “What?”
“Nothing,” Tavia said, shaking her head. “I mean, you know that no one from your world, or who may know your parents, will see you.”
Octy leaned onto her hoof. “Easier said than done.” She let out a breath. “Sorry.”
Sonata fidgeted nervously. “We could always skip the tour and just go to the hotel if it will make you feel better.”
“No,” Octy said, rubbing her head and taking in a breath. “I need this, and I won’t have you missing out on such an adventure just because I’m a little bit moody.”
“That’s,” Sonata said, taken aback. “Okay.”
With their lunch finished, the three ponies made their way down the shopping district first. Which, since the two teenage ponies had little to no Equestrian money, they did little more than window shop. Which wasn’t to say they didn’t have a good time looking at some of the many fine trinkets Eqeustria’s capital had to offer. However, as they entered the Canterlot Carousel Boutique, manned by Sassy Saddles, the two were taken aback as Tavia offered to buy them dresses for the following evening's performance.
“No really,” Tavia smiled, “I can afford that much and it wouldn’t do for me other half to not show up to the concert of her life without anything stylish to wear.”
“Well,” Octavia said, eyeing a black gown near the window display. “I do admit, I’ve had my eye on this one since we’ve got here. But, oh-”
“Oh you should at least try it on!” Sonata encouraged.
“Indeed,” Tavia smiled. “You know, this is very similar to the one,” she blinked. “Say, been meaning to ask. I assume Sonata here isn’t your only friend in the human world.”
“Yes,” Octavia said. “Although I guess none of them could attend. No fault on their end.”
Tavia raised an eye at Sonata nervously shuffling. “By chance you have a Vinyl Scratch in your life?”
“Why yes.” Octy perked up. “One of my first friends actually.” She then told how they were friends first and then met Sonata. “You two close friends as well?” she asked her counterpart.
“Yes,” Tavia added, a bit of smirkness in her voice. “Very close.” She noted how Octy had no reaction, while Sonata’ eyes widened. “Say, Octy, how about you go try this dress on.” My lady!” she called out, to which Sassy saddles assisted Octy to the changing room. Once they were out of range, she leaned into whispering, “Yes, in a romantic way.”
Sonata’s jaw slacked. “Oh,” she mouthed, her main dropping. “I mean, that’s great. Happy to hear.” A pause. “Am I being, that, obvious?”
“Fortunately for yourself,” Tavia giggled, “I was just as oblivious when I was at her stage of life too. Hey now,” she said as Sonata ears flattened against her head. “Why the sad face? I know I could have used someone like you in my life just as badly as my other friends.”
“Even if I’m not the one you fall in love with in the end?” Sonata muttered, then sighed. “But okay, strictly between us; Yes. I have been crushing on her. For a while now. Was one of the first people at school to give me a honest chance, and… Well, she’s simply drop dead gorgeous! Who wouldn’t fall for her if they thought they had half a chance? Still, I guess it’s better than her ending up with some monster anyways.”
“Sonata,” Tavia said in a firm, but gentle tone. “I might not be able to speak for everything you’ve done, but you’re not a monster. A monster wouldn’t have set all of this up to help her friend. And, while I can’t promise if you tried to pursue such a relationship with… Well myself. But if it helps, while I can’t say who I would have chosen if it came between you or my Vinyl, you’re definitely my type.”
“Oh stop it!” Sonata said, flustered under Tavia’s laugh.
“Anyways, don’t let something such as, what might be, stop you. The alternative is for you live your life regretting what could have been.” She let out a content breath. “Vinyl taught me that.”
“Thanks,” Sonata began, only to have a curtain be drawn, and out stepped a nervous looking Tavia.
“How, what do you girls think?”
Sonata mouthed something incomprehensible, her mind broken at just how ravishing Octy looked. A little shove from Tavia, and one glare at the pony Octavia, brought Sonata to her sense to say, “You look absolutely gorgeous!”
“Come now,” Octy protested, face turning red as she looked away.
“I concoure,” Tavia added. “Simply radiant darling.”
“I can third that,” Sassy added. “Now, as for your blue friend there…”
****
An hour later, they likewise found the perfect dress for Sonata, and made their way towards the hotel.
“Enjoying yourself?” Tavia asked.
Octy let out a sigh while Sonata stood in the center of the hotel lobby. Fancy, although the two grey mares had seen fancier.
“It’s a lot to get used too,” Octy admitted.
Tavia sympathetically nodded. “I can imagine.”
“Oh wow!” Sonata beamed, her eyes on their brochure. “They have a spa, included with the room?” She looked to Tavia with a pleading look of a child. Can we go? Can we?!”
Tavia giggled. “Of course. Actually, why don’t you go ahead?”
“Really?” Sonata said with a frown. “I wouldn’t want to leave you girls.”
“It’s fine.” Octy assured. “Really, I’ll join you in a bit. I just want to lay down.”
“Alrighty.” Sonata said, a bit worried, but sure enough from the way Octavia put it that it didn’t come from the same distress from before. “See you girls around.”
“So,” Octy, started, as they headed to the elevator. “How did you overcome your, er, I guess our parents?”
Tavia figdited. “It was… You sure you want to hear this now?”
“I thought that’s why I was here.” Octy said, rolling her eyes.
“True.” Tavia muttered. “You may not like it.”
“I… No,” Octy lowered her head. “Best to just get it over with.”
Tavia let out a breath. “Well, if it helps, I think you’re already on the right path, and past the part of trying to justify their toxic behavior towards you.”
Octy frowned. “Well, I mean, they’re still my parents. Plus, you can't always act like they're always wrong.”
Tavia bite her lips. “True. But you know their wrong on homosexuality at least, right?”
Coming to a complete stop, Octy tensed.
“Octy,” Tavia said, rubbing her head. “It’s not a sin, and it’s not unnatural.”
“N… No it is.” Octy said, short in breaths, pulling at the neck tie her mother had so gracefully bought her. “It’s... People will call me a freak, never let me around their kids, and I’ll be kicked out of my house. You wouldn’t understand.” She cringed as she looked at herself.
She stopped when she turned to look at her pony counterparts downcast expression.
“Of course.” Tavia nodded in understanding, looking down at her golden heart. “Although, it was something I fought with for years, so don’t feel bad if you’re not ready to face them yet.”
Octy slowly looked up. “So... how did you do it? Even with knowing about all of those consequences.”
Tavia took in a breath. “Well first, I wasn’t rash about it. I didn’t just one day straight up leave my home with no plan in mind. I figured out what it would take to move out, all of the expenses, and even someone to live with as a roommate as I got my music career going. Then one day, I talked with them. Gave them a chance. Once I had it all sorted out where, even if they didn’t approve of the lifestyle I wanted, I would be okay either way and, honestly, while the days leading up to confrontation with my parents where very stressful, once it was over, I had never felt happier in all my life.”
Octy stares wide-eyed at the story, in no way believing she was capable of such a feat, and yet, here she was.
“Of course,” Tavia continued, “I didn’t do it on my own. I had my friends who helped me mentally and financially make it to that day.” She laughed. “Sorry. Just thought of all the ways Vinyl would make a joke here about talking to myself.” She then let out a dreamy sigh. “Shame she couldn’t be here.”
“Vinyl?” Octy raised an eyebrow as Tavia was blushing. Something clicking in her brain. “Please tell me, of all people, you two arnt-”
“Er, yes, we are a couple,” Tavia coughed. “Let me guess, not your type, yet somehow you’re the best of friends?”
“Indeed,” Octy blew her lips. “Most annoying people I know, but a good friend. Might not have been brave enough to come here at all if it wasn’t for friends like her or Sonata I must admit. Although, I don’t see her more than that I’m afraid.”
“Hey,” Tavia said, “if your Vinyl isn’t for you, that’s your choice. Don’t think you have to fallow everything I do. That said, by chance is there anyone you may have feeling towards? If I may pry that is.”
Octy kicked at her feet. “Well, not really. It hasn’t been on my mind to be honest.” She bit her lip, then sighed. “And, okay, I am into girls, but really, I’m not interested in a romantic relationship at the moment.”
Tavia frowned, but said, “That’s perfectly fine. Still, friends do have a way of becoming more, especially when they go out of their way for one another. You may even find that out for yourself soon enough.”
Octy looked blinked.
“In any case,” Tavia concluded, “you good?”
“I think so,” Octy said. “Just, a lot to take in. And really, thank you for all this.” She paused. “So, what’s it like to get a massage as a pony? I do admit, since Sonata mentioned it, I’m rather curious!”
****
It turned out not to be all that different from a human spa. The three mares had been pampered and felt all relaxed as they made sure they ate dinner in their rooms. It was at this time, Tavia said she had to turn in for the night, what with the concert the following day. That did not mean, however, the night had to end for Octy and Sonata who, after a little bit of nudging, and given a map of the safe and exciting places to visit Canterlot at night, made their way into the big city.
“You doing alright?” Sonata asked as they were strolling along the streets.
“It’s,” Octy said with a breath, “I’m fine, really I am! I just can’t get the fear I’ll draw some attention from someone my parents know.”
Sonata cringed, but smiled warmly at her friend. “Hey, you’re doing great.” She then paused and looked over the map. “I have an idea.” She said, taking Octys hoof.
“Where are we going?” Octy asked, raising an eyebrow.
“Would you be willing to trust me?” Sonata asked.
Upon that question, Octy felt herself warm up. Maybe it was crazy, maybe it was nothing, but she still nodded and said, “Of course.” And allowed whatever would happen to happen.
Which as it would turn out, was a detour of the Canterlot statue gardens.
“This place is lovely,” Octy nodded. “But why did you want to bring me out here?”
“Cause I want to try a little something crazy.” With that, to Octy’s horror, Sonata jumped up onto one of the benches, and started to howl at the moon.
“What are you doing?!” Octy squeaked. “Someone will hear you!”
“Who?” Sonata questioned. While indeed, a pair of ponies turned to their direction, they minded their own business and left themselves alone. “There aren't a lot of people here, and even then, they’re not going to remember or care about us after we leave. So why care or go through life unnoticed?”
As Sonata howled again, Octy felt a bizarre mixture of cringe, and excitement. Something in the way Sonata so confidently looked silly, and yet didn’t care what anybody would think. I certainly made her heart skip a beat as Sonata offered her a hoof.
“When in town,” her friend offered.
Octy held her breath, face turning red. In the back of her mind, she didn’t want anyone who would tell her parents to see her, as highly unlikely as that was. One the other, and much stronger hoof, she really did want to look silly and howl with Sonata on that bench. As such, she took her hoof, and with a look of determination from the pair, they began to howl into the night sky. Screaming, eventually laughing, and even crying into each other’s hooves, without a care in the world.
****
For the rest of the night, the came, they saw, more often than not they found themselves dancing to various street music, more often then not encouraged by Sonata.
“Come on!” Sonata said, taking Octavia hoof as a group was playing to a waltz’s.
“What, I,” Octy would protest, but always eased up at Sonata’s smile.
“I didn’t know you could dance,” Octy said at another that was playing more renaissance couple themed instrumentals.
“Picked up a few things while, you know, learning how to use music to take over people’s minds.” Sonata said sheepishly, letting out a squeak as Octy held her close to many a slow dance.
They ended up returning to their room late into the morning to see Tavia fast asleep after the funniest night Octy ever had. There was some awkwardness of sharing the second bed, but eager for some sleep, they complied. Octy even found herself snuggling up to Sonata as the sun was rising on a new day.
They spent the majority of the morning checking out a few more sights of Canterlot, and made their way back to the hotel around noon to get ready for the concert that night. Taking it easy and doing nothing, but the kind of nothing friends would do that never felt like a waste of time. As evening rolled around, the three mares got dressed. There was a bit of a hassle as Octy debates wheater or not to wear her bow tie. In the end, she hesitantly left it in the hotel room, although her anxiety were quickly vanquished as she gazed up Sonata in her red dress they had picked out for the mare. As Tavia went ahead with that band, Sonata and Octy were driven to the concert hall by carriage.
“Really wish we could have gotten box seats.” Sonata said sheepishly as they waited for the doors to open in the lobby with the crowd. The pair of them leaning against the walls. “Guess even princesses and doubles have their limits.”
“Sonata,” Octy assured. “This is fine. This whole trip has been nothing short of a fairy tale.”
“I’m glad to hear,” Sonata said, turning away to hide her blush.
Octy tilted her head. “Something wrong?”
“No, no!” Sonata assured. “I mean… It’s kind of silly.”
“Really?” Octy said, raising an eyebrow. “You; something being ‘too silly’ miss, howling at the moon?”
Letting out a forced laugh, Sonata said, “Yeah. Who knew?”
Frowning, Octy took Sonata’s hoof.
Sonata stiffened and tried to pull it away.
“I’m not going to be happy if you’re not happy, Sonata. You’ve been nothing but kind to me, and if there’s anything I can do for you, just name it.” Octy said, holding tight.
“I’m not sure.” Sonata said, looking back at her, butterflies knotting up her stomach as she looked at her beautifully dressed friend. “I know you still have your self doubts, but in all honest, Octavia… You’re beautiful!” she let out, louder than she intended as she covered her mouth with her suddenly free hoof. “Sorry, but it’s true.” She kicked at the ground. “And I just think; what would such a beautiful lady like yourself, want anything to do with a monster like myself?”
Face a tinge of pink, Octavia felt her own heart skip a beat, as she looked over her own beautiful, insecure friend. “Well, I could say the same thing about you, miss Dusk.”
Sonata looked up, a small bit of hope in her eyes.
“I mean, would a monster go out of her way, just for my own happiness? To give me this incredible weekend, where I don’t have to worry about conforming to my parents standards?” She took back Sonata’s hoof and scooted closer.
Sonata let out the most hesitant of joy filled smiles as she and Octavia looked at each other. “You sure? I mean, still,” she shuddered as Octavia leaned her face in closer.
“I’m not either,” Octy admitted. “But, for right now, I know what makes me happy, and,” she pull back on her mane. “If you feel the same way...”
At some point, holding each other’s hooves, lost in whatever feelings the two of them had been developing for one another, they closed the distance. The next thing Octy knew, she was experiencing her first kiss.
Eventually, the doors to the theatre opened. Walking side by side, as close as they could, the two mares made their way inside the auditorium and took their seats. While the crowds around them talked about whatever, Octy and Sonata’s hooves, and tails, intertwined with each other. Shortly after the pair had gotten comfortable, the lights started to dim, and the curtain began to rise as Sonata and Octy raised themselves up as they saw Tavia and the other musicians ready themselves.
Octys perked up from her seat, having rested her head on Sonata’s shoulders for while. To which Sonata had minded. In fact, she was grinning from ear to ear, and her smile got even wider as the first of the many scores began to play.
*****
“That was amazing!” Sonata said with glee as they met up with Tavia backstage. Tavia gasping for air as Sonata pulled her into a surprise hug. Only to let go, an awkward laugh given off by Octy along with a stink eye.
“I mean,” the blue unicorn coughed as she backed off. “It was quite the spectacular show.”
Both Octavias laughed.
“Well, we do our best to make sure everypony gets the best experience we can offer.” Tavia beamed. She then looked to her counterpart. “You enjoy yourself as well?”
“Oh yes.” Octy radiated, walking up to Sonata’s side, their tails brushing against one another. “It was truly something to behold. Can’t think of many who could say they saw how great they would become in a few short years.”
“Oh you’re too kind.” Tavia smiled, blinking. “Although,” she pointed behind them. “Something you both want to share?”
The couple looked behind them, blushing and pulling away as they untangled their tails.
“Nothing wrong with showing love,” Tavia assured, “in any form. However, modest displays of affection are still encouraged in public.”
“Right,” Octy said, pushing aside a strand of her mane.
Looking around, seeing no one was paying them mind, Tavia asked, “So, you two are?”
“I’d like to think so,” Sonata said, flashing her eyes at Octy.
“Very much so.” Octy replied heavenly, the reality of the complications to such a relationship happening when they got home sinking in. “Oh. I mean, well, I can’t act like I don’t have a lot of baggage. But,” she puffed out her chest. “If this is the life I can have if I fight for it, I think I can face any more hurdles that come between myself and graduation.”
“That’s the spirit.” Tavia encouraged, a mischievous grin on her face. “Although, I am feeling a bit tired. Perhaps we should head back to the hotel? Wouldn’t want you two missing the train ride home tomorrow.”
The pair titled their heads, but offered no objections, as they boarded the carriage, to the hotel, and wasted no time heading to their room. However, as they got off of the elevator and into the hallway, Tavia came to a stop.
“Oh dear,” Tavia said, in an unworried monotone as they neared their room. “I think I left my bow string at the theater.” She gave Octy the key. “Why don't you two head inside, and I will go fetch it. Might take a long while before I get get back. May even have to look in many, many places. Wouldn’t be surprised if it took me all night.”
Octy’s look of confusion, quickly turned into a fluster as Tavia winked and motioned to Sonata.
“Dont do anything crazy or what Vinyl and I wouldn’t do,” she said, still monotone, although a fit of giggles found ways to break through her poker face. “Have a good night, ladies.” Before either could say another word, she walked off, grinning ear to ear.
“Um,” Octy said, blushing, as they looked at their room door.
“Hey! We don’t have to do anything you’re not comfortable with!” Sonata said, kicking the ground. “Siren’s honor.”
Octy giggled, and opened the door. “How about we just head inside, and go from there with what makes us happy?”
Sonata smiled, and leaned in for a peck on Octy’s lips. “That would make me, very happy.”
The two mares giggled, and pulled one another into the room. Hours later, nearly morning, Tavia returned to the room, quietly opened the door with the second key, and smiled warmly as she saw Sonata and Octy snuggled up closely to one another under the covers of their bed.
****
“Thank you again for everything,” Octy said as the three stood at the train station, giving her counterpart a final hug as her’s and Sonata’s train pulled into the station. “You really can’t come with us at least back to Ponyville?”
Tavia frowned and shook her head. “I’m sorry. I’m needed with the band here. But you’re both big mares, and will be fine.”
Sonata blew a raspberry. “You know that’s not what we meant, you dork.”
“True,” Tavia laughed. “Still, I was happy to help.” She looked seriously at Octy. “Although, you will be fine? Even if our paths never cross again, you can always try writing me through the princess. No promise on when or if I’ll ever reply, but I’ll do my best if it’s something important.”
Looking to the sky, Octy answered. “Honestly, no. I’m still terrified about… Everything that can go wrong. Not just with being away from home all weekend.” She turned to her girlfriend, then back to her counterpart. “Will things ever just one day be ‘fine?’”
“Sadly, it never will be.” Tavia said, lifting Octy’s chin to meet her gaze. “But it can be dealt with. I’d promised it would be okay, but in this case, I’ve just spent the whole weekend showing you how I can back up that promise.”
“Daw!” Sonata squelled, pulling them into a group hug. “I love you guys!”
The two Octavia’s laughed, and embraced Sonata as the train let out a warning call.
“Well thanks again,” Octy said, letting go of her other half, her future self. “Bye.”
With that, Sonata and Octy got into the train, and kept their eyes on Tavia the whole time, before she, and the canterlot station, were just a blur in the distance.
“Oh that reminds me!” Sonata said, digging into her saddle bag and pulled out a small box. “I got this for you. Or rather, it was Tavia’s idea for me to get it for you so... Just open it before I babble too long.”
Octy raised an eyebrow, but opened the box. Her hoof resting on her face a moment later as she gazed at the golden heart chain necklace inside.
“Sonata… Wait, isn’t this-
“Yes and no!” Sonata said, rubbing the back of her neck. “The chains silver, so we can tell you two apart. Tavia mentioned how her Vinyl got the golden laced one we saw of her when they started dating, and it seemed like a good idea. But if you think-
Octy pulled Sonata into a hug. “I love it.”
Sonata hugged her girlfriend back, then used her magic to fasten it around Octys neck, complimenting the whole time how she was gorgeous.
Octys looked dreamily at the necklace, then recoiled as she realized something. “Huh, havn’t worn my bow tie since yesterday.”
“That a problem?”
“Well… I’ll have to put it back on when we get home. Not quite ready to face my parents yet, but don’t worry!” Octy assured Sonata. “Today was a good start. I promise one day, when I’m more prepared and okay with the consequences, I will be.“
“Good!” Sonata beamed, as they took their seats. “Speaking of thou, we still have a whole day before your parents get home. Is there anything else you want to do?”
Octy looked down and shuffled her hooves. “I don’t know. I mean, I'd love to spend more time with you, but I don’t want to push my luck honestly.”
“Oh,” Sonata said, looking downcast.
“But,” Octy said, wrapping her tail around Sonata, “maybe, I can afford a bit of lunch. El Taco? I’m sure, even if my parents or someone saw us having lunch, it would be nothing to write home about.” She frowned. “You sure about this, Sonata? Us, I mean. Like I said, lot of baggage, and it will be awhile before we can be more open about it.”
“Well,” Sonata answered, taking Octy’s hoof as she intertwined her own tail. “I heard great things about long distance internet relationships working out just fine. What’s one where we can still see each other everyday, even if we can’t act like a couple for a few years. I’m happy with it.”
Octy rested her head upon Sonata's warm chest. “Me too. Very happy.”
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Hi, I'm not sure your Ko-Fi link is working correctly? I usually see them link to the main page of someone's Ko-Fi, like the word 'viewers' on this one. Whereas yours is coming up with a login request
10487293
I’m about to go to bed, but I promise to get back to you, and anyone else, with this in the morning, thank you
This was a lovely read. Octavia's struggle with her parents, her relationship with Sonata, and what you said really resonated with me. I'm in some similar circumstances and it really is strenuous and hurtful. It's nice reading something that gives hope.
10487293
Should be working now, are you interested in sponsoring me?
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That alone made me feel glad I decided to post this story then ^^
I promise things will get better. Without knowing if your circumstances, the first thing you should do that I didn’t mention in this story, is to fully, and objectively examine your situation. Try as much to understand what/why you are stressed as much as you can.
While I may disagree with my parents, I can at see where they are coming from with their concern about me. Short version of their main concerns is this fandoms reputation of child And sexual predators.
Although, once yOu have these facts, and if, say, one of the only outcomes may be to break ties with your family, know the consequences and prepare/be ready to acept them.
Having mine still love me is my main concern, but the majority that really was causing me stress was the financial help they were giving me to own my own house. Although when I first tired to move out, a lot of it was looking into what it would take/cost to live on my own/out of their house. It’s not cheap, but when you do the math it’s surprisingly not as daunting as you may think.
And so, once you have all that sorted out, you know what the stress is, understand, for better or worse, why the act the way they do, and have a plan to be able to deal with the consequences if they can’t accept your lifestyle, talk to them about it. Show you’ve mature and not just acting On a childish whim, and you may actually be surprised, or might finally realize there was never any point arguing with them to begin with. Either way, by that point, whatever the outcome, you will be happy with the results, and have a huge weight lifted off your shoulders.
I wish you well on yours, and to any others who read this and it may concerns, life journeys ❤️
10487857 Sorry, no, I just glanced at the story cover and saw the Ko-fi link was longer than the ones I usually see. I had a look though once you'd fixed it, followed it through to your Youtube channel and stuff. Your cat is pretty
10489544
Thanks 🐱
It's always awkward judging something so deeply imbued with personal significance to the author. It feels almost intrusive to critique the literary merit here, like I'm criticizing your life. Still, these comments are how I keep track of the stories in my final judgement, so here we go:
You have a good concept, but it's lacking polish, and you start in the middle of the story. And not always in a good way. I do like how Octy's parents are felt without ever being seen, this oppressive presence looming over her even when she's in a different universe. Using her bow tie as a symbol for their grip on her was unexpected, but worked quite well. Likewise using the Pearl to give Sonata a form she can walk around in.
On the other hand, we don't get to see her relationship with Sonata build up to a romantic level, which undercuts the confession. You likely know the story there, but your audience doesn't. The story don't always flow organically from point to point or scene to scene, with the pacing getting bogged down at some points and racing through summaries in others. Plus, the story just needs another proofreading pass or two. (Also, the Tasty Treat definitely isn't Thai. Minor gripe, most notably because that world likely won't have a country called Thailand.)
Still, there's definite potential here, and a beautiful message. Thank you for it, and best of luck in the judging.
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Oh it’s fine, and greatly appreciate. From the start I knew this was never going to win (And just now realizing as I was halfway done with this comment you were a judge 👩⚖️:/), And at best might a vague recommendation if reviewed by present perfect. If it wasn’t for what I said in the authors note, I wouldn’t of even published, and would of loved more time to work on it, but was bugged down by everything leading up to my mental health break through.
*present realizing your in charge of the contest* still, helps that you don’t entirely hate it ^^’ glad I was able to at least make it presentable, and maybe one day when I’m free (and the judging over) I’ll see to said Potential:3
Honestly my biggest regret of not having more time is not being able to paint a better picture of why Sonata and not Vinyl ❤️
Also, funny story there 🎀 ❤️ it was actually a last minute addition more thanks to my cover artist. Basically we needed a way to distinguish the two Octavia’s, and we had very little time to make too many changes, so I came up with that very idea on how if we put the bow tie on one, I’d find a way to make it symbolic. Although it wasn’t until I combed through my mental dictionary did I recall authors using her bow as a symbol of a leash, and realized I already had something going where, when they were both humans, I had described pony Octavia as dressing more as if she was a college student compared to human Octavia anyways. Although the bit with the heart necklace was just a little additional add on to that which I’m really glad you noticed ❤️
One quick tip:
Unless you're deliberately employing an echo effect for emphasis or to lead the reader down a series or a chain of thoughts, don't do this. You'll strengthen your writing in the long term by working to avoid re-using the same word in a single paragraph. In this case the repeated word actually causes mild mental confusion, since in this structure it implies negation or contradiction of the logical outcome of the previous statement. Here it feels like a double-switchback and muddles the scene you're trying to convey.
And when you do deliberately repeat a word, do so for a planned effect- to build a cadence, to echo something previous you want to call attention to, to show a character proceding through a train of thought, or to build up to a punchline, like this:
I have mixed thoughts about this story. I like the concept, but it seems as though things go a little wonky about as soon as the story starts. That and I see instances of grammar errors and broken punctuation; the scene breaks could stand to be centered or swapped with the [ HR ] tag, and the tense shifts around a fair bit. If you had the time and resources to clean it up, I think it would have been a pretty good story.
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Thanks for the feedback! Been a busy few weeks, so apology for missing the notification ^^’
While I was a rush job, as said in the A/N, that doesn’t mean I don’t want feedback for growth. I’ll eagerly try to apply what you said to either a reversion of this one day or at the very least to future stories, thank you
Good thinking, if anypony learned of the return of the sirens, there'd be a huge panic going around.
Hopefully they'll be able to revert that back to the way it was after the weekend is over.
Thx to Rarity and Pinkie.
You don't need that " after 'try dress on.'
were*
aren't*
follow*
That makes no sense, I think shocked or surprised would be better.
Remove 'what' in the third sentence.
they came*
Octavia's*
Awww
debated*
was*
A space is needed.
Capitalize she after Sonata says you're beautiful.
Another space is needed.
Proud of those two!
talking*
Yet another space is needed.
Missing a "
Missing another "
haven't*
Mistakes aside, I enjoyed the story, and am liking this ship more than I thought I would.
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Thanks 😊
Haven't wrote this ship in awhile, and your reminding me why I like it 💜
11387762
Your welcome