//------------------------------// // Chapter 4: Presently Past // Story: "Life has a Volume Knob" // by Vermilion and Sage //------------------------------// Chapter Four: Presently Past Audio walked out of the front double archway of the school and took in the surrounding sights. The same plain Cloudsdale greeted his eyes. each building, the sidewalk, the lamps, and every last piece of scenery made out of the same white cumulus clouds. Everything aside from the ugly gray mass of the weather factory that is. He let his gaze linger on the factory for a moment, a place whose management he had gotten into several arguments with in the past for dangerous experimentation on local weather climes, one of which caused a seven day downpour that flooded much of the surrounding area, and had seen the Darkwatch teaming up with the day crew and busting flank together to get it cleared up, something that hadn’t happened before or since. After the storm was finally broken apart Audio had personally went to see the head staff, threatening to arrest them all for endangering those below and demanding that they cease their experiments, to which they quickly agreed to. Audio was a very persuasive pony when the occasion called for it. Audio dragged himself out of his remenissions with a sigh and let his gaze wash over the scenery once more. He saw everything and nothing all at once, noting it all but not finding anything important. As soon as he trotted down the stairs to street level, somepony streaked past, and Audio instinctively dived prone. Getting back up, he rolled his eyes. Why would anypony be flying in such blatant violation of the speed regulations? The offender slowed enough for Audio to recognize. Rainbow Dash. He should have known. Audio has always respected her fighting spirit and fierce loyalty, but her disregard for the rules had been a bone of contention betwixt the two in the past. She had tried to join the Darkwatch at one point, but Audio had turned her down. Too independent. Even as talented as she was, she wasn't able to work as a cohesive unit, which was a must for the Darkwatch teams to make it home in one piece. Dash hurried over, an expression of concern hurriedly shoved onto her face. She hadn't appeared to recognize him, which he put down to his now-natural coat color. Audio ran an eye over himself, brushing himself off and pulling some of the fabric of his jumpsuit back into place. “hey, are you alright?” Dash asked, setting down a few feet away. “nothing’s broken or damaged, so yes. I am fine. Cloudsdale has rules on flight-speed in city limits for a reason, y’know.” He said dryly, running a practiced eye over Dash. She could still make an excellent Darkwatch candidate, but again, her personality just wasn’t built for it. “Yeah...rules...uh, what are those again?” Dash asked, holding a straight face. Audio was almost impressed until he realized she was being completely serious, and he felt affirmed in his past judgment calls. “Never one to care much about rules much, eh Rainbow Dash?” Came a familiar voice from above. Audio craned his neck to see Spitfire lazily gliding down to them. Peeking over at Dash, he could see that she was desperately trying to keep her cool. “Uh, not really, no. Rules just hold me back!” replied Dash with a healthy measure of defiant confidence. She grinned, still trying to cover up the nervousness. “Heh, ain’t that the truth. So Audio, you ready? Soarin' got everything ready, silver-tongued devil him.” Spitfire said to Audio with a half-smile. “To be honest though, it didn't take much more than him asking nicely for a reservation.” Spitfire was truly an awesome friend, her and Soarin' both. Audio looked over at Dash, who was staring at him intently, as if trying to visualize him wearing something other than a black tracksuit. Her eyes suddenly brightened. “...no..it can't be...Audio...Shock? As in Lieutenant Shock?” she gaped, to which Audio responded with a winning smile and a warm tone. “Once upon a time Rainbow, but now I'm just Audio Shock. Now you'll have to forgive us, but we've got important business to attend to.” Audio propelled himself into the air. “Let's go Spitfire, time runs short.” “That it does Audio, see you around Rainbow.” Spitfire said in parting, giving her number one fan a wink and a playful push on the shoulder before taking off after Audio. She caught up after a few moments. “I can't thank you enough for this Spitfire. Without you and Soarin', I don't know how I would have gotten everything done.” Audio said sincerely as they flew over the streets. “Hey, it's not a problem at all. I was wondering when you planned on doing this actually. Cloud has been one of my best friends for years. I'm glad she has somepony who loves her as much as you do.” Spitfire responded. The two old friends traded banter as the city streets gave way to the city limits and then the open sky. About halfway to Ponyville, Spitfire challenged Audio to a race, to which he quickly declined. She was time and again faster than he was, and they both knew it. He could have accepted and been beaten badly, or decline and let it go. No shame in admitting he couldn't win this one. Even without racing they soon arrived at Audio's place. Spitfire took an offhoof interest in Audio's decor from the moment she got inside. “Nice place you got here Audio, I'm impressed.” Spitfire quipped as she looked at the flight suit she'd given him all those years ago. She regretted not having enough time to spend with him and Cloudtamer, but her own schedule was chock full year round with shows and other events, on top of managing the team. “Thanks Spit. It's changed a bit since the last time you and Soarin' were over, but nothing extreme. A few new decorations here and there, but it's more or less the same.” Audio said over his shoulder as he walked to his room. He entered his sanctuary and crossed over to the desk, covered in several stacks of books. He figured Cloudtamer had noticed the disarray and fixed it up before they left, but that was neither here nor there. He opened a small drawer and removed a long black case, stowing it in the flank pocket on his jump suit before closing the drawer. Spitfire was patiently awaiting his return in the living room, gaze still captured by the walls. That gaze was stolen by the small case Audio was holding out for her inspection. “Well? Don't keep me in suspense! Let me see!” She carefully took the case he offered. Opening it she let out a short whistle of appreciation, to which Audio grinned and blushed slightly. The bracelet inside was an exact replica of his cutie mark, the black being made of a glossy obsidian, and the white notes constructed out of diamonds, all fused by a thin gold chain. “You think she'll like it? He asked, though he could already guess what Spitfire was going to say. “I'd be more surprised if she didn't, Audio. This is...wow...” Spitfire said, closely studying the piece of jewelry. “It's beyond description, and your cutie mark makes it all the more personal.” She closed the case and tucked it away for safekeeping, as they had discussed earlier that week. Just another part of the plan to keep Cloud in the dark until the last minute. Audio had spent far too much time and effort to let this get ruined. “Thanks Spitfire. I owe you one. Just let me know if you need anything ever, alright?” Audio said appreciatively. Asking for help without paying it back eventually just wasn’t how he did things. “So, 9 at the Crystal Pony?” “Yep. And don’t bother thinking you owe me one. You’ve helped out the team enough in the past to call this one a freebie. “Spit responded, smiling. “Alright...we've got a few hours then. I'm going to take some time and clean up around here before heading back to Cloudsdale to get Cloudtamer.” Audio said while eying the mess lurking in the kitchen. “Sounds good, don't you dare be late though!” replied Spitfire with a chuckle. She knew Audio wouldn't miss this night if it killed him. Still smiling, she gave him a farewell and exited the homestead in the direction of Canterlot. Audio waved a hoof goodbye and glared toward the dishes. He didn't want to look at them anymore. While he started to rinse off the plates and bowls before putting them in the dishwasher, his eyes wandered over to a framed picture residing on the windowsill above the sink. There he was at the Gala a few years ago, a wide smile on his face and a foreleg around Cloudtamer. ---------------------------------------------------------------------- 3 Years Ago Audio gazed over the perfectly clear sky, taking in the orange remnants of the sunset before turning to observe the ponies filling the Gala ball room. He loved leaving clear nights like this one for ponies to enjoy, and it was just a few hours ago that he and two of the Darkwatch had finished their work. They were now enjoying the festivities while he stood lookout. Or pretended to anyway, as he had found that the appearance of being busy was usually enough to keep him from having to socialize with the guests, keeping him away from their posh nonsense and frills. He could do well enough without those. The moon rose to find the ballroom full of well-dressed nobles and fancily dressed attendees, but Audio liked how it reflected off his officer's dress uniform more than anything else he saw. It was black with blue trim, sporting silver buttons and clasps, and his dull silver Darkwatch wings that rested on his chest. All of which contrasted with his white coat well. He glanced back toward the crowd to see couples dancing and talking, but was content to keep to himself, his thoughts carried away by the ebb and flow of the music wafting up from the orchestra. “Hey LT, what's up? Enjoying your night?” A smooth voice came from behind to knock him out of his reverie. Turning to face the source of the voice, Audio saw Spitfire approaching him with another mare in tow. Audio almost did a double take at the sight of Cloudtamer. While he knew the two to be friends, he wasn't expecting her to be here tonight. She hadn't appeared to have recognized him either. The last time they had spoken was several years before, and his coat was gray back then. “Reasonably quiet, all things considered. Overall yes, I am enjoying myself, thank you Spitfire.” He replied in a clipped military tone, causing Spitfire to roll her eyes and give a half grin. “Alright there Lieutenant Shock. You’re among good company now. You can drop the stiff and regimented military tone.” She said laughing. “Cloudtamer, this is Lieutenant Shock, the pony in charge of the Darkwatch.” “Oh wow! I've seen some of the stuff you get into. Quite impressive actually.” While she spoke, Audio watched her eyes. She was telling the truth alright, but seemed to be awfully interested in him, as if searching for something. Just as he was about to speak, her eyes lit up and recognition played across her features. “Spitfire...did you say Lieutenant Shock? As in Audio Shock?” Her inquiry was greeted with nothing more than a sly wink from Spitfire, who said nothing more before leaving the two and blending into the crowd. Cloudtamer blinked a few times in confusion and turned back to Audio. “It has been a while, hasn't it?” Audio said. His heart was pounding so hard he was certain that she could hear it too. That tricky mare Spitfire. He was going to kill her for this. Before he could say any more, Sergeant Skyfire sidled up to Audio, and began making conversation. “Evening Shock. I'll take over from here. Go enjoy your night.” Skyfire gave a quick shove to Audio to get him going, and winked at him. Audio made a mental note to get him back the next time he had a chance to spend a couple hours alone at the office with some power tools and high quality bolts. “Let’s go for a walk in the gardens…catch up a bit?” Audio suggested, his voice as confident and smooth as ever. “I…think that would be wonderful Lieutenant Shock.” Cloud said, addressing him by his rank. She giggled inside as she did so. She wasn’t sure why it made her so giddy, but it did and she liked it. “Miss Cloudtamer…I know it’s been a long time…but it feels strange to have you address me like that. Audio will do fine, if you please.” Audio said, airing a professional tone “And you Staticbrain, can just call me ‘Cloud’. Just like old times.” She said, smiling up at him. “Indeed…just like old times…” He replied, eyes glassing over for a second before they walked out into the cool night air that filled the gardens. Cloudtamer stood next to Spitfire, taking in the sights of the Gala.Spitfire had gotten her hooves on an extra ticket this year, and decided that Cloud should come along for the ride. What Cloud hadn't been expecting was just how many ponies would be there. Hundreds, and the was just those still milling around outside, let alone all those already in the main ballroom. They were all dressed as posh as equines came, making her feel more than little self-conscious. In addition to the guests, a few dozen members of the royal guard were present, wearing the golden plate armor of their service. They stood stoic at the portals and passageways, save for one who milled about a balcony on the far side of the room. He was wearing a uniform of blacks and blues, and if it were possible, he might have been standing up straighter than the rest of the guards. “Who is that?” Cloudtamer asked, gesturing the the darkly dressed Guard with a hoof. “The the commander of the Darkwatch. Tough fellows them.” Spitfire motioned for Cloudtamer to follow her as she took off toward the balcony. “C'mon, let’s go talk to him. He's a real nice stallion once you get past the rough and tumble attitude. I think you'd like him.” Cloudtamer hesitantly followed Spitfire to alight next to the strange guard. He didn't turn to face them or even acknowledge that they were there. “Hey LT, what's up? Enjoying your night?” Spitfire asked casually as she sauntered up to the stallion. As he turned around to face them, Cloudtamer felt a shiver run down her spine. Spitfire was introducing them, but she wasn't paying enough attention to do more than mindlessly exchange hellos. He looked so familiar up close, and she just couldn't place it until she looked into his eyes. Something clicked. That cutie mark...those piercing blue eyes, it was Audio Shock! The colt that she bickered with so much back in school, and wound up falling for so hard that she didn't dare speak of it. A moment later Spitfire ran off the join the other Wonderbolts, leaving her to fend for herself with Audio. Hey! She was supposed to help me say hi and... They were not given much time to enjoy the peace as another pony dressed in the same palette as Audio trotted up. He started talking to Audio, and then gave him a gentle shove in order to take his place. Audio looked briefly exasperated, but then looked at Cloud and smiled. He beckoned to her with a forehoof, and she happily trotted over to his side. He'd grown since the last time she seen him, and now the top of her head was almost level with his chin “Let’s go for a walk in the gardens...catch up a bit?” Audio suggested, his voice as confident and smooth as ever. “I...think that would be wonderful Lieutenant Shock.” Cloudtamer couldn't help but giggle. He looked so uncomfortable being addressed by rank. “Miss Cloudtamer...I know it's been a long time...but it feels weird to have address me like that. “Audio will do just fine, if you please.” “And you Staticbrain, can just call me 'Cloud'. Just like old times.” She smiled again, he sounded so formal. It was such a farcry from the pony she'd known all those years ago, but somehow...he hadn't changed a bit. “Indeed...just like old time...” replied Audio, his eyes glassing over for a second before they walked out into the cool night air of the gardens. The walk to the gardens passed in a quick blur for Audio as he listened eagerly to Cloudtamer relate the events of her last two years to him. Before he knew it, she was asking him the same questions, and he desperately tried to get his mind back into gear. Back in flight school she was a pretty filly, but as a mare she was attractive enough that Audio had to actively work to keep himself from staring. Tearing his gaze away yet again, he scanned the heavens for any clouds that could have formed, but it seemed that Skyfire was taking good care of it. Inevitably, Audio felt his eyes wandering back over to Cloudtamer. After about half an hour of this, the couple sat down on a bench, and an amiable silence reigned. Audio was enjoying Cloudtamer's company with every fiber of his being, and sincerely hoped she was doing the same. Judging by the fact that each time he went to look at her, Audio caught her staring back, she might very well have been. To vent some of his tension, Audio shuffled his wings around a little bit. Ever since he'd been little, it had worked just fine, to the point of becoming a nervous habit, and unfortunately it drew Cloudtamer's attention. “Nervous about something?” Cloudtamer asked lightly. “No.” lied Audio. “Your wing twitched. You only do that when you're restless or nervous.” “You still remember that? I recall you mentioning it once in school, but I didn't think you'd remember something so small now.” Audio replied, astounded by her observation. “I remember a lot about you Audio. You're a hard pony to forget. Always walking around...lost in your music...paying no heed to the rules and throwing all caution to the wind, rising to even the stupidest of challenges.” “And I remember you never letting me off the hook for any of it.” Audio returned with a grin. “Oh don't act like you didn't like the attention.” teased Cloudtamer, giving his shoulder a push with her wing. “Alright, alright. You got me. I did like it.” Following those swift words, Audio extended a wing and wrapped it around Cloudtamer, pulling her close. She yelped in surprise, but didn't pull away. Hours later found the moon high in the sky, and the young couple still trading stories of their lost years. Doubtless they would have done so until morning had not Skyfire found Audio to tell him that the event was about to close up. Audio and Cloudtamer waited for a few minutes before following suit. It was noticeably less crowded in the ballroom than it had been a few hours before, which suited Audio just fine. Aside from concerts, he'd never like large crowds much. Pausing by the gate, he began to give Cloudtamer his farewells. “I apologize Cloud, but I have duties to attend to here...perhaps we could spend some more time together soon?” suggested Audio. “I would love to Audio. Classes are out this week and I got my grading done ahead of time, so whenever works for you.” replied Cloudtamer as she looked up to him, smile on her face. “Alright, I don't get on duty until the evenings, so I will have most of the day off.” Audio spoke hopefully, his face starting to mirror hers. “Then it's settled. It was wonderful to see you again Audio...” she said, leaning up and kissing him on the cheek before making her way down the path that lead up to the castle. Audio watched her for a few moments, still reveling in the enchantment of young love. Audio was snapped back to the present as the bowl he was cleaning slipped out of his grasp and landed in the sink with a clang. The smile was still on his face as he retrieved the bowel and placed it in the washer. That night was one of his very favorite memories. Even better than his promotion to Lieutenant and commander of the Darkwatch. Tonight however, was going to be one of the fondest memories he would ever have. About an hour later, Audio found himself standing in front of the mirror hanging from his bedroom door. Staring back at him was a pegasus clad in an officer's dress uniform, the veterans 'V''s on the collar now perfectly straight. It sure beat the hell out of a regular suit, and saved him the expense of renting a tux. Tonight was going to be perfect...absolutely perfect. Satisfied with his appearance, Audio left his room and tidied up the rest of the house. Once that was also in order, Audio set out for Cloudsdale. The trip was uneventful, though the wind was picking up as the weather teams pieced together a large storm. Audio picked up some altitude to get above the storm, just in time to see a pegasus shove the last clouds into place. Below him a maelstrom raged, making up for the dry spell for the week prior. Ahead and above, Cloudsdale awaited. Audio gently landed on the cloudwalk outside Cloudtamer's home, and rapped a few times on the door before entering. The house was unusually dark for the time of day. Usually Cloudtamer would have a few lights on at the least, but it was very gloomy and Audio had to strain his eyes to make out the room. “Cloud, sweetie? Where are you?” asked Audio nervously as he hoof-tipped his way further into the cloudhome. As he walked into the living room, a muffled slithering noise, like a tail over carpet caught his ears. He tried to turn around, but couldn't turn to face his attacker in time before he was knocked to the floor.