//------------------------------// // Part 2: Calling - Philharmonica // Story: The Big Moment // by Koregazz //------------------------------// What is in a dream? No, that's not right. What is dreaming in general? It is just a convoluted, corporeal reality. Thoughts, aspirations, meanings in the symbols are lay out. That is all a dream really is; a place to store our desires. I used to believe I could harbor all that in those sparse moments of tranquility. Terrible day? Maybe a crowd threw profanities my way? All of that would store itself deep in my mind, where dreams lay. That is how it used to be. Now when I relinquish myself into the vapors of a dying wish, I dream of more. My dreams are filled with memories. Or maybe it is the other way around. I truly have no clue. What I see in my embrace - listening to the lullabies of unknown souls - are those memories that have stuck with me. Memories of things I never did, but wanted to; and there of things I did, but wish I hadn't. They are with me. Constricting me with a longing to never be forgotten - choking me. I must live with them, die with them, and transcend next to them. An orchestra of my contempt is what they are. Shifting in nature to a will I don't fully understand. I relive the best and worst of my past; bearing the brunt of the damage done. It isn't until I wake, that I can differentiate between the dreams and the memories. "I cannot wait any longer! Only four more weeks till graduation!" Vinyl was bouncing up and down, her mane slapping hard against her face. Compared to the previous few weeks, she was an absolutely different pony altogether. Happy. Just like her old self. This in turn made me smile. Her happiness was mine. Being best friends did that. "I can see you're in a good mood, hmm? I inquired. "Heck ya! Why wouldn't I be? No more classes, or tests, or having to study, or-or...uh..." She took a moment to stop the incessant bouncing. Her face contorted in such a manner, she looked to be in physical pain. "Bah! There's just so much that I won't be forced to do". "Well I do have to admit I may have been some of that pressure". "Nah. You motivated me to pass". She served me a helpful smile, showing her words to be true. "I just hope Mr Winds doesn't have any hard feelings against that prank I pulled. Boy was his face reeed!" "You know very well Mr. Windsong was only trying to help correct?" "Yawellhecouldhavebeenalittlebetter," she spoke in hushed tones quickly. "What was that?" "Ooooh nothing Tavi". She trotted a little brisker, pulled ahead to avoid eye contact. "Right then". Mr. Windsong had been our wind instrument adviser for the past year. He was a very accomplished musician - his fancy partaking in the flute. Being as experienced as he is, there were bound to be a few who did not like him. Vinyl just had to be one. He was especially hard on her for the past few months. His reasoning was that Vinyl needed to be strictly taught, if she had hoped to have any chance on passing his class. Most - including I - would say otherwise. A week or two into the year, she planted a stick of soap and a bucket near the door for him. Needless to say it was quite a rough tumble out the second-story window. There was a turn ahead. Taking it, we continued on to our destination. It was a clear, sunny day. Birds swarmed the skies, florists displayed their finest flowers, and everpony was celebrating the spring. I'm sure Celestia herself was enjoying the beautiful day she created. I quickly caught up to my companion, who was paying no heed to the scenery. "You know...you could stand to apologize before the year is up," I stated with a pandering glance. Breaching the subject before, I expected the same response. "I'll get on it eventually," she mindlessly answered. Our light trot was interrupted by Vinyl pointing me to our destination: it was a small boutique placed on the corner of Mane & 3rd. Sparkling light glittered the windows, reflecting the majestic wares inside. A wide-variety of clothing was set up, adorning the cheery atmosphere of the place. Turtlenecks, the latest line of Hoity Toity's hallmark dresses, mitten caps leftover from winter, and even...ahem...uh...socks. While my eyes were invested at the quaint shop, Vinyl rummaged through the satchel hanging limply across her back. Managing to tear out a scrap of paper from the packed bag, she took a glance up at the boutique's sign and the paper slip. "Ya, this is the place. Sharenell's Boutique. I mean unless this is wrong." She suspiciously eyed the paper, trying to make it confess. "Well let's find out shall we?" I said leading us inside. We were instantly overcome by an intense fragrance. It was overpowering; taking up use of my other senses. The more I moved around, the more potent it became. It was as if the air was replaced by this pungent odor. Quickly, I took up both hooves and clamped my nose shut. Giving me solace - freedom - from the scent. Scanning my eyes past the entrance, I tried to find the owner, somepony, anypony to flock to safety. Stinging. My nostrils were on fire, burning a course throughout my entire body. What is this!? My eyes started searing as the tears trickled by. Shutting them closed, I was still being wracked with the air. With my eyes shut, I wasn't able to see if Vinyl was in the same excruciating pain. Did my hearing go away? In fact there was no sound to speak of. This was just another side-affect of the odor. "~~~". What? "~~v~". Somepony was shaking my shoulder. The gurgling noise's touch was numb. "Hey Tavi! You alright?" Vinyl? I decided to be brave and peek at my surroundings, if only for a second. The boutique's lovely scenery greeted my sight. Looking up, Vinyl was sure enough poking my side, hoping for a response. She appeared perfectly fine. She wasn't alone. A tanned pony, with a swirled, brown mane accompanied her. She was just as worried, but kept composure at my act. Releasing the tight grip on my nostrils, I found that the air became more pleasant. I smelled lilacs. "We were worried you were gonna puke or something". The nameless pony next to her nodded. "I'm terribly sorry ma'am. I should have seen you two earlier, or this would've never happened". Though my body was still a little frayed, I managed to bring myself back up to four hooves. "I-I don't understand. How are you at fault?" She bowed her head in shame. After a few docile seconds, she brought up the courage to speak. "I guesstimate an explaining is in order. A while back, whilst moving across several cities, I acquired a pouch of powder from a prominent shaman. This powder, which smelled positively revolting, was well and truly the most beautiful fragrant I had ever smelled. It was my favorite scent - fleur d'amour. I was just as shocked to find the truth in it. The shaman best explained it in riddle". She cleared her throat, and began to rhyme: A pungent poison hangs in the air Robbing ponies of their hair But soon enough It will transform Into the scent of a beautiful mare "You see," she began again. "The powder begins as the most horrific thing you can imagine, but soon turns into your favorite smell. Quite a sleeping beauty is it not?" The mare asked with a chuckle. "I would say so Miss...?" It had occurred to me we weren't aware of her name. I assumed she just worked here. "Oh! A thousand apologies. I'm Sharenell, and I am the proprietor of this little shop". As she said this, she brought her hoof into a sweeping motion to announce the surroundings. "Although Share is just as fine," she added. "It is a pleasure to meet you Miss Sharenell," I said outstretching for a shake. "My name is Octavia Philharmonica, and this is my friend Vinyl Scratch". "Yo", "Charmed," Sharenell said with a pleasing smile. That was something that caught my eye: her smile. It was glued to her face in a permanent state. "I assume you both have reason for being here? We do have a new line of spring wear over to our right," she said. Of course. I almost forgot why we came her in the first place. "Well actually," I started fumbling for a paper in Vinyl's satchel. "We came for some school-related business. Our graduation is coming up, and we were told to come here for gown sizing". She took the slips, scanning their contents quickly. "I believe I can do this," she said with a smile. "If you'll follow me...?" "Octavia," pointing a hoof at myself. "Right then, let's go girls..." Her cheery response lightened my thoughts. Today felt wonderful. --- We made our way to a concealed dressing room, with a podium in the very center. A large three-way mirror was erected behind the podium, adorned with jewelry, cloths, and faded pictures. I took a closer look at the aged photographs. They went as far back as before colored pictures existed, to what looked current. Most were customers - wearing their fancy gowns and suits. A tiny filly was even a customer; dancing in place with her bright blue dress and princess cap. Of all the photographs however, one appeared the most valuable. It was a simple photo of Sharenell and a rugged colt. She was much younger in the old memory - with her lush mane flowing over her petite figure - than when they met her. Whoever was with her must be special, for her to dedicate next to all those other photographs. I pulled away from the mirrors, as Sharenell called to us. She had returned with a dozen or more materials and baskets filled with thread and pins. Carefully setting them down, she joined us. "Now then, I looked over your desired outfits, and with careful consideration have decided against them". "Wait what?" Vinyl blurted out. "What do you mean 'decided against?!" "I think what my friend means is, what isn't satisfactory about them? Our school decided on..." Well your school has some tacky ideas to say the least," she pronounced I fumbled with words that wouldn't come. She was against what we brought. Mr. Windsong did warn us about her personality; but to express against a customer's wishes? Blasphemy. "Please Ms. Sharenell, if you could just..." "No". She was dead set on denying me. "Fine. Then we'll just have to take our business elsewhere. I'm sure others would be more than happy to..." "I wouldn't count on that if I were you". For such a charming mare, she sure like to interrupt. "If I deny you any service, it will get around quicker than you think. I may not hold a large shop, but I do hold a great amount of influence. I didn't get popular or famous for just handing out simplicity for simplicity's sake. No. I got to where I am through the willpower to strive farther than those who imagined less. You came to me - and in doing so - have acknowledged my own thoughts". My eyes met her own in a fierce battle. It wasn't against her own thoughts, but the way she put them to use. Without so much as a glance, she tossed their own works away. Yes, the were simple. So simple, that I and Vinyl could just get through with graduation. It may not mean much to me, but to Vinyl it was a monumental challenge. "Care to take that chance with me, Miss Octavia?" Her own eyes shone with a passion I only ever saw in my own. A passion I was quite losing. I wanted to fight her. However...I was never the fighting type. "No, Ms. Sharenell. I-I don't believe I would". Lowering my head, I gave in. Out of he corner of my eye, Vinyl's feelings were hidden. Although I knew how she felt. "I didn't mean to fight you on this. It's just I didn't understand". Sharenell pulled her mane back, taking a deep breath. "Actually...I am the one who should apologize. I can get really heated on easy demands like this. I guess I enjoy the challenge of a beautiful design more than anything". She walked to the mirror, staring at its contents. I was a little off to tell properly, but it looked as if she was staring at that picture of her and the colt. Or possibly more just to herself. "If you'll forgive my attitude," she silently wept, "I would love to make your gowns". She had already gained my forgiveness, but what of Vinyl's? Looking to her for an answer, she angrily turned towards me. Her eyes were on fire - dancing in the light. Soon enough, she smiled. Good answer. "It would be our pleasure," I said to with open arms. "Oh yipee! I have the most fabulous designs in mind, just you wait!" Not the reaction I expected from her, but she was quickly off to the baskets, unfolding the materials and getting to work. Today is a good day. --- Music is one's own way to flesh out the soul, and share it with like-minded... Sharenell was busy with Vinyl, which allowed me to delve into my studies. School may be over for Vinyl, but I was still very much into learning and refining my knowledge. A tedious task that I do so enjoy. Chorusing voices found their way into my ears. They were just background noise however. I was much more interested in my book. Drive passion and... "Sorry bout this Tavi!" Vinyl's voice found its way into my thoughts, and the next thing I knew my cheek had softened to a wet tongue. I felt my face go red with fury and surprise as she swiped it up. "Vinyl!!!" Loud chortles from the perpetrator echoed at my rage. "I-I-III'm sorry Tavi! I c-could-n't ttthink of anything el-lse!" She was nothing more than a bowl flopping around. My rage didn't quell as I shouted at her. "Rrrr Viny!-" "Miss Octavia," sang a cry behind the room opposite our own. "Miss Octavia, it is your turn". "Coming," I shouted back, bringing my eyes back onto the rolling unicorn. That is when I noticed she was wearing something odd. It appeared to be an ordinary graduation gown, but it also had her cutie mark on the side, and was colored to fit her fur and hair. "Is that supposed to be your gown?" I asked. "Huh? Ya. Why? Do you like it," she said baring her sneering teeth. "It looks very...you," was all I managed. Sharenell had called for me again, and this time I heeded it. Groaning slightly, I pointed a vehement hoof at Vinyl, and followed into the room. Getting the outfit fitted didn't take long. My own gown was a mixture of my fur and hair - much like Vinyl's. However what was so different was the added combination of colors. A purple hue radiated along the ends, stretching into a starlight sky. It reflected joyously around me. Pins stuck in odd places around, for later readjustments if necessary. Sharenell stated I looked 'gorgeous'. With the clump of ill-proportioned folds and bunched threads, I found it highly unlikely. "And you're certain it will fit come graduation?" "Yes indeed. Now then, why not show your friend! I'm sure she'd love to see". A small laugh escaped me. "I'm sure she'd love to alright. I'm sure she'd love to laugh too," I retorted with as much sarcasm as I could muster. "Well then that's good enough!" Soon enough, she was shoving my cluttered mess into the podium room. With one last nudge, I toppled in front of Vinyl. Brushing myself off, I awaited her hysterics that were sure to come. Her it comes I thought. Squinting for a peek at my humiliation call, there was something altogether much different. Vinyl's cheeks turned rosy red and her eyes tinted before my eyes. She gulped before flustering, " You-you look nice". Quickly retreating into a shell to avoid me, she pretended to read my book I left out. I don't believe she was the only one to blush at my dolled-up figure. "See?!" Sharenell jubilantly said. Looking back, I flashed a simple smile and said it was reasonable. We paid the fees, and left to pick them up when they were fixed. One thing that I noticed on the way back was even in the glowing afternoon, Vinyl's cheeks still stayed red. ... --- I felt myself plunge back into reality, as I awoke. The morning once more greeted with a helpful ray of sunlight - breaking the dark remains of wherever I was. Confirming my surroundings, I was in fact back home. Same mirror looking back, same bed holding me together, same...Vinyl. I nudged closer to her, my body trying to close the gap between us. Vinyl's body warmed my own, her fur sliding along my face. A slight stretch, and I was comfortably hanging off her. I stayed like that for a bit, letting us caress in silence. The blissful seclusion was interrupted, as I retracted my hooves, which were just a few moments ago gripping the other occupant - such as an anchor to a ship. It was morning, and I was still groggy; so maybe I fresh start would get me back to my senses. Making sure to stay silent, I slunk out from under the covers. Tossing a glance at Vinyl, she was still very much asleep, however now taking up the warm spot I relinquished. Somehow my semi-conscious state brought me to the bathroom sink, splashing cold water on myself. The previous night's events were a blur in my mind. The alcohol and rough day overall accounted for that. Yet there was one clear image that did come up: Vinyl's actions. She was brave to stand up to that brute. No, more like reckless; insane really. I guess I can chalk that up to Vinyl be Vinyl. Still... More or less awake, I traversed the rocking hall - shifting with each step - to the kitchen. A fresh brew of tea always picked me up. Grabbing the box of tea, I halted. Lying next to it was a container with a label of coffee grinds. Tea always brought me back to my senses yes, but maybe something stronger was needed. Replacing the box with coffee, I poured its contents into the machine. I placed myself at the table, taking light sips from the steaming brew. It left a burning sensation after every touch; scalding the roof of my mouth, but keeping me refreshed. Now I know why she lives off the stuff. There came a knock from far away, banging against the walls. Vinyl. Sure enough, a stumbling zombie of ragged white fur and mangled hair emerged. She stalked into the light, hissing menacingly for it to disappear. From the pit of her throat grumbled, "Mornin'," before sitting across my own seat. Not much more passed between us, as I handed over a newly-filled cup for her. Vinyl took a swig of the drink, lapping her lisp in complacent calm. I may have been new to the bitter taste, but she was a seasoned veteran. Once she mentioned they should host a contest for drinking as much as possible for prize. I laughed it off as a joke; but of course she was dead serious. Looking at it now, she would definitely be a strong finisher. "So Tavi, feelin' any better?" The question caught me off guard, but thankfully she was in a talking mood. "Much better, thank you". Her deadpan face craved more from me. "In all honesty, I was just foolish. I'm an adult however, so I'll learn and move on". Hopefully that would suffice. She grew a pleasant smile. With her mind at ease, we moved onto topical conversations. Vinyl began to rave about a new Deadhor5 song. I mostly listened, but did express my concerns that we needed more groceries, and to pay some bills. Just another routine morning. --- We finished up our meals – my plate cleaned spotless, while Vinyl’s still had some scraps. I placed the plates in the wash, picked up the spare keys to the house, and left with a bag in tow. Deciding the grocery shopping should be done sooner than later, I took off. Our neighborhood was clear for the most part, as most other neighbors stayed indoors. Such a shame I thought, since the day was quite nice. The grocery store was only a short trot away; taking my time as I went, checking out the local scenery. Living in an almost remote section of Manehatten, there wasn’t much in terms of modernized scenery. We instead had lush grass adorn small fields outside of the city sidewalk. There was a family out kicking a ball. The father, it appeared, dashed between his small foals – one a bright pink with gold locks, and the other spotted, with a small tuft flailing after him. While he and the children played, the mother sat watching the game. A family outing on a day like this was wonderful. Watching still, the father suddenly tripped over his own hooves, knocking the ball out of reach. Trying desperately to get his footing back, the little ones – with their stubby legs wobbly charging – tackled the fallen colt. They stumbled over him as he rolled, smothering him with their dainty ligaments. It would seem his ruse worked; he rolled onto his belly, jumping up, knocking them off, and lifted one into the air, a magical swirl catching them. The other – helpless to stop him – was struck with many successive raspberries. Her only defense was to endlessly giggle at the triumphant victor. The mother left her spot, joining the battle by toppling her husband; his field broke, causing the spotted one to plop onto the colt’s stomach. I left after they all had a good laugh, returning to the game with the ball. To see that family have such an enjoyable time brought bubbles to my heart. Children were adorable, although a pain in the rear in later years. Still…adorable. I’ve wondered what having foals would be like, but only sometimes. Vinyl was the complete opposite, usually spouting kids are gross! They are so annoying! Believe me, I was one, it sucked! Still it was an interesting thought, if only as a dream. Walking a short distance further, I came up to the store, entering through the double doors. Inside, a rush of cool air swarmed; aisles full of fresh fruit, celery, snacks, and desserts filled the building. “Welcome,” came the cheerful call of the kindly old unicorn who ran the place. From short conversations, he’s been around longer than we have, dating back to before our parents. Searching the aisles, I easily picked up our list’s items. We usually managed with the same each week, sometimes with me fixing up special meals on occasion, which Vinyl enjoyed wholeheartedly. Items bumping around in my bag, I set a trail to the counter. “How are you this mornin’ Miss Octavia?” His voice rasped, with only a few remaining teeth whistling between breaths. He scratched his wrinkly beard – white as bone – growing down to the floor. “Pleasant, and you Mr. Kipp?” The worn cashier continued to stroke out dirt from his facial hair before realizing I answered back. The floppy sacks of skin, loosely dangling, had heard much in their time. Mr. Kipp used to be in the army back in his youth. Before time took over, he went on excursions to far lands, scouting and researching of all things. Leading a battalion had once been his job in those wilds, combating the terror that overtook zebra groups. But those glory days were gone now, being remembered as a lonely memory. “Doin’ well these days o’ course. Seeing pretty youn’ things like you ‘taint too bad neither,” he responded, plastering an obvious wink. “You’re sweet, but I’m taken”. Sharing a laugh, I left with my purchases, heading back near the field. The family previously romping around there had left, their joyful shrieks no longer taking up the sounds of passing birds or growing grass. I returned home, putting the groceries away. Whilst placing down some fresh tomatoes, a small card caught the corner of my peripheral vision. It was Mr. Harsk’s business card. After yesterday, going back to him would feel shameful. His dissatisfaction with me left a lasting image. And yet Vinyl would be the one telling me to mare up! That’s Vinyl for you – always pushing. Adjusting my bowtie, I headed out the door to his office. Time to prove my worth. --- There in the far corner it stood, waiting for me to return. Leaning off its case was the ancient cello. Mr. Harsk’s moving lips brought my attention back to him. “-Another chance?” Only guessing at his question, I nodded, keeping a stout posture. “And why should I let you back? From our last session, you didn’t seem too keen on continuing with my lessons. With that in mind I can deny you forthwith and keep a clean conscious”. He’s being cruel, but nonetheless right. Why should I expect him to reason? Because I can prove my worth. “Mr. Harsk, I don’t expect you to listen to my excuses, but take them into consideration”. Not saying anything against my wishes, I continued. “I’ve been terrible as of late. Bringing my troubles to you has been unfair, and I’m sorry. I believe I can prove to you I am far greater than that. That I have worth. Will you not give me a chance?” He looked me over, mulling over his answer. “N-” “Mr. Harsk!” Shouted Ms. Taft from behind. She had been silent thus far, but something in her snapped. “How can you turn this poor girl away? She’s trying her best to change your mind, and you’re still stubborn!” “Was this your trial, Ms. Taft?” “No. But I trust her! Enough to know you’re wrong!” Harsk straightened his tie, fussing with it. Menial annoyance away, he found stalling wouldn’t work. “One chance, Miss Philharmonica. One”. All I wanted! I went to the dreaded corner, and took the instrument in hoof. The previous days’ encounter was gone. My slow breathing subsiding all the fear and loathing. This – in all respects – was my cello. If I wanted it to work with me, I first had to treat it as an equal. It caused much mental stress, but only because I fought it. Now was different. This time we would play in tangent, and let my passion play. Raising the bow, correcting my posture, and sweeping the first note – I played. This time I chose an upbeat tune. A marching tune without a drummer. Each note echoed another softer one. I kept my eyes closed, thinking only of the song. Instead of being in his office, I was in a road, in a field, alongside other musicians. We wore green garbs that bore the sun of our fearless leader. She was far ahead, leading us to a battle sure to be remembered. How many of us were there? I couldn’t tell. Troop, cavalry, squadron, it didn’t matter; all of us were equals heading to this fateful destiny. Together, chanting the song of victory. The last note faded into an obscure realm, to that distant world. Starting upbeat, it sadly ended on a dark tone. Ms. Taft covered her face as she cried thin films of tears. She wept and thanked me for my performance. Graciously – with a humble smile – I bowed. She plucked hordes of tissue, and blew like a boar into them. More than I expected, but it was nice to hear. A strong hoof grabbed the cello, pulling it from my loose grip, and slamming the case. Mr. Harsk took the case to a closet without so much a word. He went to his desk, and still did not respond. I would be lying if I wasn’t a little impatient. Before I could speak up however raised a stern hoof. “I’ve heard enough, Ms. Philharmonica”. My confidence plummeted. His monotone response left a pit in my stomach. Readying myself, I took my leave. The door barely pulled out when the passive stallion cleared his throat; loud enough to beckon me back. “I said I came to a decision. I also would’ve hoped you’d have more confidence in my answer”. “What do you mean?” My heart fluttered. What if… “I mean to say you’ve improved. Vastly. You’re what I’m looking for in a pupil, congratulations”. Did my heart stop? A steady beat washed that thought away. One second I was standing there – hearing those longed words, then I lifted off the ground, and flew. I didn’t have wings, but was flying high. Nothing came to min d that would be as beautiful as what he said, so I hugged him. My arms tightly wound around his neck, squeezing until the familiar sounds of suffocation caressed my ears. If it weren’t for the immediate danger he might have been in, I would have kept up until the moon rose. Mr. Harsk rubbed his supple, bruised neck. “Yes, well…I’m glad you’re happy”. His hawk eyes piercing me said different. “This however doesn’t mean your sessions are getting any easier. In fact, starting tomorrow you better get enough sleep for two!” I took my leave with an equally excited Ms. Taft. She praised me for my success, wishing me a good day. A good day. A routine day.