Vinyl would find out just how her meal tasted, don't worry. At this point, things like that were important to her. With Vinyl's sudden elation, feeling as if she was taking the first positive steps in her life in a long time, she was easily appeased. The stress and worry from the day before felt almost as if it was a distant memory at that moment, or so she has said. Unfortunately, this was only her first step into recovery.
At this moment in time, as Vinyl scoffed profiteroles and engaged in small talk, she didn't think about her recent outburst. Neither did she think of her unresolved issues, or what the rest of her friendship lessons might entail. In fact, she didn't think about much at all.
This was Vinyl's favoured state of mind, likely because it was so rare. She found it very difficult to dissociate with her surroundings and exercise tranquility, so when the feeling came over her, she welcomed it. For once, her head was merciful, her mind clear, quiet and free, and she was able to truly breathe. When she finished eating, she did not immediately leave for her room, opting to stay and clean up. Such menial tasks were also a chance for her to relax.
Unfortunately, her placidity couldn't last forever, it never did. I've mentioned before that Vinyl is a very intelligent pony, but intelligence often belies sense. While Vinyl may have been good at controlling her life, to a degree, she knew that some things were out of her control. She could not keep her mind quiet, nor could she stop her strength from ebbing away as fatigue set in. She could, however, convince herself that she didn't need her headphones tonight, and would be able to sleep without them. She was wrong.
Begrudgingly comforted by the sound of her playlist, Vinyl would consider many things that night, her mind not the calm, ebbing sea it had been earlier. She would think to the future, considering what was to come next for her. She would think of the ponies that she kept determined for, and of the rewards her hard work brought. I sometimes wonder if she knew at that moment whether she was pushing forward for her own health, or just to make everypony else happy.
As Vinyl drew closer to an exhaustion imposed slumber, the intensity of her thoughts was mitigated. She thought of the ponies she had met recently: The alicorn princess that was to become her mentor, the boastful and cheeky unicorn with the brilliant smile, the strong and caring mother with the equally strong voice, the captivating pegasus with a penchant to playfully mock her. Vinyl thought of all of these ponies, one in particular slightly more than the others, though only her subconscious realised it then.
The next part of the story details Vinyl's adjustment to new friendships, and a significantly more pony filled life. She would learn more of herself as she went, her opinions, preferences, and feelings for others alike.
Suffice to say that she would remain almost completely clueless in regards to romance.
I'm simply not able to keep up with the flow of your story... still really motivated, aren't ya?
As for the previous chapter, I liked how you executed the change in Vinyl. There is progress, but no ultimate reformation - hence the cigarettes. The rest of the chapter was a lil' random with Octavia's sudden change (What the hay did they do to her in the spa?), but after all, the story has a tag for that.
As for this transition... it mocks with the teasers. This is gonna be a long ride, right? Do I get it right from the mention you are not planning to ship them, right? (If that's true, I'm glad. Not much of the cuddly shipping person...) Am I right that I just used three right(s) in a row?
7935446 I'm definitely motivated! Glad to see that it shows. Unfortunately, I am going to have to cease updating for 5-7 days. Me and my girlfriend have plans for the valentines week, which is also my self directed study week, basically the university's version of a half term. As much as I am enjoying this venture, I simply can't be writing out new chapters while I'm meant to be spending time with her. When it's only reading and assignments I have to deal with, however, I'm more than capable. In fact, once this term is over (around April) I will likely become even more prolific than I am now, as I will not be working alongside my writing. But just thought I'd make it clear now: If you don't see a new chapter for a week, it is not because I've given up on this story, just got a lot going on.
I'm glad you liked that, and as for the cigarettes yes, they could be seen as a representation of Vinyl's difficulty in adapting, or as a coping mechanism, either works. Personally, I've been smoking for about 6 years, and have never attempted to quit. Therefore, despite being able to give an accurate depiction of craving, I don't know how well I would portray withdrawal. I try to make it a rule to only write about things I know about. If I wish to include something in my stories that I'm not knowledgable on, I'll go and research it. Octavia's change is, in laymen's terms, her attempt to make Vinyl feel less strange about the reinvention she is currently going through. It's not entirely forced, but she is definitely pushing to be a little less reserved than usual, and for the most part has enjoyed it so far.
The transitions will eventually start to reveal the answers to more questions than they create, but in time. This is likely going to run on for a while, yes. I couldn't tell you just how long it will be when it's finished, but we're not very far in right now, I can say that with a fair amount of certainty. I can tell you now, as you wish to know, that there is virtually no chance of an Octascratch pairing in this story, although that's all I'll say, apart from pointing out the distinct lack of a romance tag. Watch to see if that ever changes.
right
right rightyou are!AAIQU
7935604 Sure, hope you two will have nice time and that your exams will be easy. Me - and the other 22 people tracking the story - don't need a chapter everyday to have a proof you care. Many people update occasional, from weeks to months span between the chapter, just because they are busy. The loyal readers stay and wait for the next chapter
Thank you for the 'Behind the scenes' and clarifications!
This story (or the first four chapters of it) has been Blunt Reviewed.
http://www.fimfiction.net/group/202157/blunt-reviews-group/thread/304574/blunt-review-big-tavi-lil-tavi-cardboard-box#comment/5800730
8023647 I literally cannot add to this. Spot on!
AAIQU