After the battle of Canterlot, during the royal wedding. Vinyl Scratch aka. DJ-Pon3 (Best pony). Notices something different about her marefriend Octavia Melody.
Vinyl Scratch and Octavia Melody survive the attack on the Canterlot castle. The changelings were beaten off. And the wedding finished without a flaw. But something is different about Octavia and Vinyl sets out to figure out what it is.
There we were. The entire Changeling army. Surrounding the big sphere barrier Shining Armor put up. We all waited. Waiting for the signal. I was based on the south side. My job was to round up earth ponies and take them as prisoners.
Suddenly the barrier began pulsing. At that moment we all started slamming into the purple shield defending the town. After a few minutes our leader, Queen Chrysalis, drained enough magic from the powerful unicorn. We broke through the barrier and it shattered as it disappeared.
We flooded the city. Thousands of us swarmed the city. I landed and changed. Leaving my eyes as their original snake like slits. I began chasing ponies. I hate it. Doing all this, changing my form, scarring innocent ponies, all for what? Love? Seriously what’s the point?
If we lived off of love, which we don’t. Shouldn’t our love lives with the other changelings be enough? Yes! But no we survived off of fish, deer, vegetables, and fruits. We were basically ponies that ate meat! I was sick of it! All the invasions and attacks. Kidnapping, hunting, wasting time to take over a place that had no land for farms.
That’s when I spotted her. Her long dark gray mane and tail flowed through the air as she ran. Her light gray coat was covered by a strap holding a large black case over her back. I gave up my chase on a squad of fillies and turned to her. Matching her perfectly. Her large purple treble clef mark fit with her style. The white collar with a pink bow is all I was missing. I changed my eyes even to match hers. The grayish purple took over my eyes as i caught up.
I overtook and jumped in front of her. She quickly turned and I picked up my chase. She kept running through the city. Every tight turn I gained a bit of ground. Then she went down an alley way. And that’s when I saw her. A spear through her chest. It was awful…
The wooden handle was broken in half. Must’ve been a guard fighting a changeling. I walked closer and checked her vitals. Her eyes rolled back in her skull and her heartbeat was absent. At least it was quick. I removed the spear from her and began walking. No changeling bothered me. I took her out of town and began to walk down the mountain.
Quickly becoming bored I changed to my true form and gently floated to the base of the mountain. Using my forehooves I dug out a large grave for her. I gently set her in, crossing her forehooves over a few flowers I picked. The purple tulips worked perfectly. Closing her eyes I prayed for her soul to find peace.
I bowed and gave her a gentle kiss on her forehead. The cold was starting to set in. I climbed out and quickly buried her in dirt. Taking a chunk of bark from a nearby oak tree I used my sharp fangs to carve into it. “Here lies a beautiful mare. One that was needlessly harmed for one’s selfish gain.” Jamming the piece of wood in the soft dirt I gave her a salute and flew back to the town.
As I walked through the entrance I took her form again. Everything exact. I continued down the streets sprinting. They were deserted. No pony or changeling was out. Within a minute of my return a large purple blast came out of the castle. I braced for what was certain to hurt. My face turned and eyes closed as the purple wave washed over me.
I sat there for a couple minutes. “What just happened…” My thoughts were focused on the barrier quickly expanding. I opened my eyes. It wasn’t there. No… I saw it… Turning around I watched as the queen I vowed to follow loyally and without fail. She was screaming and was being pushed away by the barrier. Along with the rest of the army.
That made no sense… Why was I still where I sat? I looked down. My hooves were still gray like that mares. That was it! I was a pony! The barrier didn’t kick me out because it thought I was a pony. I let out a squeal of joy as I stood up and trotted down the street. I passed the alley way.
The large black case was still there. I decided to discover what it contained. I walked up to the oddly shaped case and unlatched it. One on both ends and three spread throughout the front. I lifted the lid open and inside was a beautiful cello…
I couldn’t resist. I’ve studied ponies for years. Hidden as one. They never suspected me to be a changeling. I love it. I saw these amazing works of wood and strings. They made an amazing sound and when this was played my insides melted and I couldn’t resist relaxing.
I ran a hoof along the neck of it. The long black wood neck fit perfectly in my hoof. She was a musician. And she played my favorite instrument. That bass caught my attention right away. The deep sound was powerful and strong, yet it was still able to be light and soft. I lifted it up and stood it on the small metal rounded peg on the bottom. It was missing the rubber piece to cover it.
I stood up on my back hooves. It fit perfect. Whoever this mare was she was an amazing musician to have a perfectly crafted instrument. Finding my balance I plucked a string. Instantly the noise echoed inside and came out the two swirl slots in its face. The sound filled the alleyway and my ears. I knew how to play but never got to actually play. I hooved the notes. I looked inside the carpet padded case. There was her bow. The resin for it. And a pack of strings in case one snaps.
Lifting the small long piece of wood I rested the sinew across the strings. I drew the bow across and the sound filled the alley way. The long note sounded incredible. Being this close was much different than watching through an elementary school window. Those fillies and colts play their hearts out but not quite as elegant as the instrument is meant to be.
I settled down and put the instrument back. Closing it I latched it shut and check out the strap. There was a big pad. On the outside was a clear cover. Inside that was a piece of paper. It had the large purple treble clefs on it and in the middle was Octavia Melody…
Whoa… Octavia! She visited the school one day and played for them. I loved her! I can’t believe I didn’t recognize her!
Wait… My musical idol died because of me! Tears quickly began to roll down my cheeks and landed on the case. I can’t believe it! She was gone because of me… Wait! I can do this! I can be Octavia Melody! She inspired me to learn this instrument in the first place. I’m sure with some practice I can master it as she did.
I lifted the large case, positioning the pad over my chest. Holy crap this thing is heavy. I walked slowly, legs wobbling. I finally got out of the alleyway. Face stained by my tears and I began to head to the castle.
As I approached the bottom of the stairs I looked up to a wave of excited happy ponies. They came flowing out of the castle doors. It was like a tidal wave! I sat and covered my head. The stampede of hooves split in front and they went around me.
I turned and looked and they were all celebrating. Shining Armor and Princess Mi Amore Cadenza walked outside. Princess Celestia and Princess Luna walked behind them on both sides. Twilight and her friends in the background.
“Greetings, Ladies and Gentlecolts.” Shining spoke loudly so everypony could hear his powerful voice. “Today we withstood a major attack on our capital. With the combined efforts of everypony we fought back the changeling armies and saved our darling Princess Cadence. The wedding will continue as planned. This Friday we wish to have it.”
“As the princess of love.” Cadence took over the stage stepping forward. “I wish to send my sincere apologies to everypony that lost their special somepony. I wish to personally thank you for their sacrifice and honor them at our wedding.” Everypony was finally settled down. Seeing the full extent of the carnage that just took place. “And, I also wish to extend an invite to everypony in the city!”
The crowd lit up with the stomping of hooves, and whistles. They all jumped around and quickly dispersed as the royal family retreated inside.
“Hey Tavi!” I heard come from behind me. Some random pony called for who they thought was the real Octavia. I had to play along. Couldn’t let anypony find out that I have taken over her life.
“Yes?” My voice was exactly like hers. Smart, a little stuck up, minor accent that showed higher education. And was as sweet as ever, it was candy to my ears. I turned to see a few earth ponies were standing there. Two stallions, their manes combed and poofy. One was brown with an egg white mane. The other was a dark grape purple with light blue mane. They both sported a white collar with red bow ties.
The brown coated stallion had yellow green eyes. They seemed lifeless and angry. On his rump was two eighth notes. One white the other black. The purple stallion had eyes much like the other but more gentle and happy.
The third pony was a mare. She stood between the other musicians. Her aqua colored coat covered her whole body. Her mane styled with a little flip at the end of the front. The brown mane matched her tail. Her eyes were a soft pink. Her neck covered in her collar. The pink bow tie sat gently as mine did. Her flank sported a sousaphone cutie mark.
“You coming to practice tomorrow? We only have 2 days before the wedding.” Her voice was kinda harsh. Probably from blowing into a sousaphone for so many years. I recognized her though. Her name was Brass Wind. She visited with Octavia when she went to the elementary school. The stallions were new to me though.
“Yeah… I’ll meet you there before we start… Ummm where is it again?”
“Seriously Octavia.” The brown coat stallion sounded angry and annoyed. “It’s right down the street from the school. It’s been there every second of our lives.”
“Yeah, I knew that. I just didn’t know if it was destroyed or not.”
“See Treble.” The purple pony spoke, his voice much calmer than the other stallions and more gently than the mares. “She just wasn’t sure if it changed.”
“Sorry Bass. Sorry Miss. Melody. Just a bit annoyed by the sudden attack.”
“Don’t worry Treble. It’s fine.” The three band members turned and left. I let out a long sigh. This is my life… I walked back around town. It was getting late and I had no clue about Octavia’s personal life. I found a spot in a dark alley and set the large case down. Wow did I feel light when I removed that strap from across my chest.
Finding a spot in the corner of the brick walls I laid down. Lucky for me it was summer. I wouldn’t freeze to death. Even better with the feast from the day before the attack I wouldn’t starve for a few weeks. I rested my head on my crossed hooves and closed my eyes. As the moonlit night surrounded Equestria I fell asleep.
“Okay everypony, measure 8, page 2.” She said. We all found the spot and she began to count the beat. The simple four four tempo was easy to me. I watched the young fillies and colts practice that.
My page was covered in rests. I guess this part was for the sweet cords of the piano and harp working in harmony because brass too was resting. Her lips out of the silver mouthpiece.
After a few measures she raised it to meet her lips and she began to blow. Gently filling the room with a deep powerful noise. I quickly panicked as I saw notes coming up.
Without warning the three stopped. All staring at me. I kinda retreated behind my mane. What little I could…
“Octavia.” Treble spoke. “Are you okay?”
“You look a little green. Do you need to lie down? Bass added.
“Yeah. A bit…” I had to admit it. When they approached my stomach had started to turn into a knot. I would’ve been busted in an instant. They’re only delaying my inevitable discovery. “I must’ve had a bad dinner.”
“Oh… Sorry to hear that Octavia. How about to go to the hospital and talk with the nurse. You have your part down better than any of us.” Brass’s voice was smoother. When she oiled her valves it’s like she oiled her throat.
“Yeah. I’ll go see the doctor.” I quickly packed up and took the music sheets with me. I had to practice. I quickly scooted out of the building and down the street where they wouldn’t look. I went down the street and came across a music store.
Awesome! I could get a book teaching me the notes! I love reading and reading music would only be even better! I’ll be able to actually play and rebuild my safety walls. I walked in and checked out the cello book for starters.
“Octavia? Octavia Melody?! Is that you!?” A light gentle voice came from the counter. I turned with the starters book in my mouth. The yellow coated mare was standing at the glass case holding mouthpieces and reeds. Her black mane ran down her shoulders and her tail dropped to the floor. Her face was buried in a book open on the counter now looks at me. Her blue eyes focused on me. “What are you doing here? And with that book? You’re the best cello player in Canterlot!”
“Oh… Yes I am.” I set the book on the counter. “I’m just buying it for a little filly. My friend’s daughter wishes to learn and, well, where else to start but with the basics?”
She laughed a bit. The unicorn’s horn glowed a gentle blue and she checked the book out. Putting it in the bag with a receipt. “That’ll be 5 bits Tavi.”
I reached into my case and pulled out the stash. “Oh my… I seem to only have 4 on me.” Crap… I would have to give up a night in a bed for this stupid book. I didn’t want this!
“Don’t worry about it Octavia. I’ll cover for you.” She pulled a bit from her purse and combined it with mine. She handed me the bag. I have to admit. I didn’t like this. Being a charity case.
But I had to. I don’t want somepony hurt by Octavia’s less than unfortunate death. I paid for the book and grabbed it. Walking out I went back to my alley way and begun to study the notes and every bit on the staff. Treble and bass clef. To four over four, as well as the most difficult of time signatures.
I finally felt comfortable enough to try and play. In the back was the final song. The Entertainer. The familiar song was most common with ice cream carts. It wouldn’t sound as well being bass but it will be an amazing challenge.
I stood up at the corner. My case open and my bow resting on the strings. I began to play. My hoof was trembling as I read the notes. Each one flowing through my eyes and down to my instrument. It felt amazing! I never thought I would do this. And it felt natural. Like just being Octavia was enough to make me be able to play the cello.
The song came to an end. I gathered a fair crowd of ponies and foals. Fillies and colts bummed out that I wasn’t indeed an ice cream mare. But the older ponies that like it stomped and cheered. A few tossed in some bits. 8 in total. I could get a night in a hotel and some food if I kept this up.
Feeling confident I reached into the case and pulled out the song for the wedding. I played the basic “Here Comes the Bride” and then for the reception song. It wasn’t the main part. Some DJ was supposed to do the after party. I took my bow again and began to play the gentle tune.
A few married couples made some jokes. The stallions stood next to me while the mares walked straight at me and donated a bit or two. They laughed and had fun but I repeated the song. After about the 9th couple I swapped to the other song.
My bow began to dance again. It skimmed across the strings filling the air inside with the harmonic vibrations. It was amazing, I played it perfectly. Kept the beat. Followed the repeats. And even had the pitch correct.
As my bow fell for the last time I looked up. My band members were standing watching. “Well well. Looks like Octavia is all better.” Brass said in her snotty harsh voice. “So Octavia. How was the doctors?”
“It was nice.” I emptied my case filling the compartment again. There were so many bits I had to put some in the main area. “Just a bit of food poisoning.”
“See guys, Octavia is the hardest worker of us all. It’s not right for us to keep criticizing her skipping out on practice.” Bass defended me again. They seem to dislike Octavia. Or was it me?
“Look I know the wedding is Friday. I can’t not practice the song.”
“Yeah you’re right.” Treble let out a warming chuckle. “You would play through anything. Even a changeling invasion!”
I let out a nervous giggle. Did he know? “Yeah you’re right. I might not even notice it.”
The members laughed and all left together. Whew that was close… I decided to invest my extra bits into a saddle bag. It would make carrying them around easier. I packed up the large instrument and strapped it to my chest.
After a few moments I found a tailors. I walked in and asked the seamstress if I could get one. Turns out Octavia thought the same thing. Within minutes I had a prepaid saddlebag strapped to me. I tipped her and left.
The bag was perfect. The strap held me firmly and moved with my body. The large cloth bags were gray like my coat with my cutie mark on the outsides. The tops were easy to open. A simple button held them shut. I returned to my alley way and filled the two packs full of the bits from the day.
I looked up to a nearby clock. It was late. I had enough time to located a hotel and find a room for the night. I walked around and found a nice bed and breakfast. I bought a room and that was the end of it. I went into my room on the second floor and set my case down. Unstrapped my saddlebags and checked my bit count. 23. I could buy a great breakfast tomorrow and live here! It would be perfect! I laid down on the soft bed. The feather pillow let my head soak into it as I laid on my back. Pulling the blanket it and over my chest I went deeper into the bed. My eyes shut and I fell asleep with a smile. I was a changeling. But now, I’m Octavia Melody, cello player.
I awoke the next morning. The sun gently breaching the blinds of the window. I laid there ignoring it as long as I could. After a few moments I was awoken by the staff. They gave me complimentary breakfast and a nice cup of coffee
The sandwich was nice. Lettuce, Dandelions, Freshly picked grass, and some tomatoes. This diet would be difficult to get used to. Especially if I get a craving for the juicy, delicious, tender meat of a rat.
As I finished the sandwich I sipped my coffee. I could feel it working. I loved this drink! The cup was a bit strong with my first sip. I guess I didn’t have a taste for the bitter drink. The tray the food came on had a small bowl of sugar with a spoon and a small cup of milk.
After a few teaspoons of sugar I poured in what I sipped out with milk. Taking another drink, the liquid went down my throat smoothly. Perfect. It tasted great now. Sweet and delectable.
I got up and out of my bed. I felt great, My back wasn’t hurting, my wings weren’t folded in awkward positions. Mainly because I didn’t have them. I guess I should do my daily workout. Wait… No, I’m no longer a changeling. I didn’t have to. Nopony could tell me what to do. All I knew now is I was a free pony.
After a few minutes I investigated my room. There was another door next to the closet. I opened it up and inside was a white tiled room. The walls were covered half height in tile and the rest in a black and white vertical striped wallpaper. At the other side of the room was a large porcelain tub. I walked over to it and investigated. There was a shower head up high and the faucet a few inches above the edge of the tub.
Above the faucet was a simple handle. Left for hot, Right for cold. WIth a simple twist I moved it to the left. Instantly my face was splattered from the shower head. It was freezing. I quickly dried of my mane and noticed a small knob at the end of the faucet was pulled out. WIth a tap of my hoof it went in and the water started pouring out of the metal opening. The shower head turned off and the tub began to fill.
Dipping my forehoof in it I checked the temperature and climbed in. The warm water felt amazing. In the caves we had to stand under a waterfall for anything close to a bath. As I sat in the tub i began to feel rejuvinized. It was amazing. I let myself sink in. My mane and tail spread out in the tub.
After about 10 minutes I climbed out. I stood at the sink and began to comb my mane. I wasn’t any good at it. Being a changeling we didn’t have these luxuries. I finally figured out how to get the front poof correct and I got the rest of my mane puffy and straight.
I walked out into the bedroom and grabbed my cello. As I left the building I heard a few whispers. But I wasn’t able to make out what was said. At the moment that didn’t matter. I needed to go to the castle and prepare for the wedding. It was several hours away but I heard the fancier crowd was showing up early. Maybe I could make some money and provide background noise for them.
I walked through the gates and went to the main hall. The guards let me in. Octavia played here a lot. I felt like a celebrity myself. Finding a spot next to the main staircase I set up. On my way to the castle I quickly stopped and grabbed some songs. More intellectual and difficult.
Before I knew it multiple ponies dressed in big fancy wings and large dresses and tuxedos stood before me. I bowed my head and drew my bow. Playing gentle songs to start and then picking up difficulty.They loved it. Some simply enjoyed the music. Others donated much more than the ponies on the streets.
Hours passed and the band showed up, I gathered my case filled with the gold coins. Filling my saddlebags with as much as I could I walked outside to the stage we were to perform. Leaving my bags and case out of veiw I lifted my instrument.
Me and Treble were to perform the song as a duet. He was pleasent this morning. His coat was shiny, his mane combed, and his eyes looked joyfilled. We made it too the throne room and set up.My cello is all we had. He simply sat down at the organ and pressed a few keys.
Celestia and Luna walked in with Shining. His eyes caught mine as he examined the surroundings. He instantly walked over.
In no time he was standing at me.
“Hello, miss. Octavia. I’m Shining Armor as you know. I also know that you and your band are playing a special song for me and my wife… Are you okay?
I was sweating terribly. Every word he said pierced me. My eyes were shaking as much as my knees. Using my cello for full support I stood and managed to talk. “Yes… Yes that’s correct.:” My voice was shaky and I could barely blurt them out.
“Wonderful! I look forward to it. Also, I know your secret.” He winked at me and he turned and left.
No way! Did he actually know!? How? I’ve been in disguise this whole time. From when I first landed to now. I had to leave. But if I bailed now he himself would hunt me down. I had to wait…
The ponies filed in. Applejack, Rarity, Rainbow Dash, Pinkie Pie and Fluttershy all stood on the left of the stairs leading to the altar. Twilight and a few stallions on the right with Shining. Her horn glowed and she fixed his vest.
Celestia looked to me and gave us a nod. “That’s the cue” Treble said. His hooves came down and began to play the song. When the doors swung open Cadence began walking down the aisle. I joined in the song playing my part perfectly. The three flower fillies jumped down letting their basket swings as the beautiful alacorn followed behind. her face covered by her veil.
As she approached the altar the song came to an end. Treble grabbed my shoulder and we made an exit. We had to prepare for the performance. The relief I felt to get out of that room was unimaginable.
“How did it go you two?” Bass greeted us as he polished his instrument.
“It went well. Brass. Why did you tell Shining about our secret performance for Twilight?” Treble’s normal annoyed voice came back to him. That didn’t last long…
“What? You really thought we could keep a secret like that from the Prince of Equestria?” Brass responded instantly. Well I don’t see why not. I kept my secret from these three ponies.
I finally relaxed knowing it was my actual secret. We all finished and prepared. Setting up we waited in the garden. The eruption of sound from the throne room was incredible. Ponies stomping and cheering.
Within moments of that they came running out. Waves of excited happy ponies took their seats at tables. The overly excited Pinkie Pie already had the wedding cake ready. But it wasn’t our job to observe it was to play. And thats what we did. Provided background music and dance music.
The night set in. Shining sitting at the head table with his new wife. As we came to the final song Brass left to talk with Twilight. I looked at the empty turntable. This wasn’t going to happen without that DJ wherever she was…
With in no time of that observation a white unicorn walked up to it. Her cutie mark was a pair of black eighth notes. Her dark blue spikey mane covered her face. The lighter blue stripes formed rows in it. What her hair didn’t cover her glasses did. The large dark purple glasses with black frame looked more like they were for the day time.
She had no emotions. Like she was depressed. She nodded and her horn glowed. But that’s when her face instantly cheered up. As she reached for the record she saw me. Lifted her glasses and rubbed her eyes as in disbelief. It’s like I instantly made her happy. She put on a big smile as Shining and Cadence took the dance floor. Her glasses returned and she put on the record.
Twilight began to sing her song. I did my part and played the song. The DJ headbanging with Pinkie. It was incredible. I was at the royal wedding peacefully.
The song came to an end and the newlyweds ran out the front with everypony else. Even my band members left. I began to pack up and thats when I was tackled.
“GAH! What’s happening?!” I screamed. I’ve been tackled and normally it didn’t go well. Usually me being punished for being out of line. As I braced myself for the normal whip correction I was instead greeted by a hug and tears falling on my face.
“Oh Octavia! I missed you so much! I thought you were dead!” The white unicorn was on top of me crying with joy. Her voice was harsh but for some reason it made me really comfortable with her. “I thought you died in the attack. Oh I was so worried I lost you forever.”
I wrapped around her to comfort her. Gently patting her back. I had no idea who she was. I’m sure some research real quick could answer that. “It’s okay. I’m here, and safe.” I did my best to calm her down returning the hug.
She finally stopped the water works and looked up from my soaked chest. Her glasses her resting on her horn. “I love you so much Octavia.” Her lips meet mine. I laid there and let her kiss me. I had no idea what to do so I went with it.
“I love you too.” She stood up smiling and helped me up. Her dark red eyes were amazing with her mane and coat. She looked beautiful. Whoever she is, I will gladly let her love me.
“Where have you been? Why haven’t you come home if you were okay?” She began to question. My mind went blank. I couldn’t talk my way out of this. There’s no excuse I have. “It doesn’t matter. You’re okay and I can finally sleep.” She hugged me again pecking my cheek.
“Yeah… That’s all that matters now.” I put my instrument away and grabbed my full saddlebags.
“Whoa. You’ve been making money. That’ll do great for my music production!” She played with the bags of bits and giggled.
“It sure will. Let’s head home.” I kissed her cheek and looked at the turn table. Her banner was over the front. It read “DJ PON3” in large blocky blue letters with a multi shade background. She gathered her belongings and quickly joined me. “Lead the way DJ.”
“DJ? Haven’t heard you call me that in quite sometime. Not since we met back in high school.” She shrugged it off and began walking. She led me to an apartment complex. Opening the door for me and I walked in.
The building appeared in nice condition. Walls painted white. All doors had a nice bronze plaque on them. The stairs were oak wood and went perfectly to the next level. We went up to the third floor and went to the last apartment at the end of the hallway. That’s where we entered apartment 3-H.
She unlocked the door with her magic and we walked in. It was incredible. There was a large window at the other wall looking out over the nearby market. The carpeted floors were a swirl of gray and black. The kitchen had a small counter with a few stools pulled up to it. There was everything in there. Refrigerator, microwave, oven, stove, even a strange looking dish washer…
In the living room next to it was a large couch and a chair. Both leather and very padded. They looked really comfortable. I sat my cello on what appeared to be its case stand in the corner and I found a seat on the couch. The unicorn was gleeful still. Her eyes full with a small amount of water as she looked at me.
“Are you okay?”
“Huh?” She wiped her eyes. “Of course I am Tavi!” Her voice sounded slightly cocky now. “Vinyl Scratch is always fine!” Perfect. She just gave me her name. Now for nicknames…
“Come here scratchy. I missed you so much.” I rolled over on my back and held out my two forelegs for her. She quickly took her spot in them and snuggled into me. She fit perfectly. The more I thought about it the more I blushed. This mare was special to Octavia. Making her just as special to me.
We laid there for what felt like hours. I check the clock. It was 10pm. My stomach let out a loud growl. She giggled and got off the couch. She whipped up two sandwiches like magic and handed it to me. We sat with each other and ate smiling.
“Well I guess we should head to bed, honey.” She let out a loud belch. It was almost repulsive.
“Gah! That’s disgusting Vinyl.”
She laughed loudly. Her horn glowed and her glasses floated off her horn and on to the glass top coffee table. “That’s my Tavi!” She kept laughing as she went into another room. I walked after her and entered the bedroom. There was a large bed in the middle. The headboard against the wall.
Two pillows were at the end. One with my cutie mark and one with hers. She laid down on her side and held open the thick comforter for me. I climbed in the other side. As I walked closer I noticed there was a cabinet and dresser, as well as a nightstand with a lamp on top on my side.
I climbed in and faced her. My hooves pressed against my chest not knowing what to do. Shortly after her horn glowed and there was a click. The lamp was turned off and her hooves had grabbed mine. She pulled them close as she turned around and stuck her back against my stomach. She gave them a kiss. “Good night Octavia, my love.” Her voice was so gentle it made me fall in love instantly.
“Good night Vinyl. My love.” I returned the phrase and gave her a kiss on her head. Holding her close to me. Our heartbeats synced together as we laid there. This was my life. I became Octavia Melody. Mastered the Cello. And found her. My beautiful marefriend, Vinyl Scratch.
I awoke the next morning to the sound of running water and weird pounding noises. Vinyl wasn’t in bed. She must be taking a shower. I climbed out of bed. But as I put my hoof down on the mattress to push off I felt something hard. That must’ve been what was pushing into my back last night.
I reached under it and pulled out a book. There was a small bronze plate on the opening with a hoop. Inside the hoop was a lock holding it shut. This must be Octavia’s diary… Where was that key… I got up and walked to the cello case. Opening it up I reached for the secret compartment and pulled out a small key.
I put it in the lock and gave it a small turn. It opened and I removed it. I opened the leather bound book to a lot of entries. Dating from about a year ago to today. I began to read. It said how she and Vinyl meet in school and how their relationship had begun last year when they meet up after college.
Vinyl came to a concert for Tavi and they became closer than ever. They moved in with each other after a few months and here they are. Tavi called her many nicknames but none never stuck. She talked about many things. How they would go to the park, watch movies curled up on the couch. A few personal things…
The water turned off. After skimming the last few pages I put the lock in the hoop and closed it. Tossed the key in its hiding place and quickly returned the book to it’s. From the side of the bedroom came vinyl. Her mane and tail staightened and wet from the water. She was still making beat box noise as though she was singing some song. It was terrible to Tavi. But I enjyoed it.
“Morning Tavi.” She walked to the bed toweling off and she gave me a quick kiss. “The waters warm. I’d take your shower before the rest of the building wakes.” I nodded and stood up.
“Not necessary. I desire breakfast. How’s… Waffles with butter and maple syrup sound with a nice glass of milk?” Her jaw dropped. The diary said how Octavia would get Vinyl to do jobs by bribery with her favorite meals and treats. “I’ll take that as a yes.”
I walked by her and walked to the kitchen.I dug through the fridge and pulled out some frozen waffles. Tossed a stack in the microwave and grabbed the milk carten. Pouring a glass of milk as she walked out. She was dry. “Did you hang up the towel?”
“No…” Her ears flopped down.
“No waffles then.”
“But Octaviaaaaa.” Her voice was a whine. It was kinda nice to hear. Mademe giggle. She certainly did act like a filly sometimes.
“You heard me. You know how I hate when you toss the towel on the floor. Getting that mildew in our carpet. It’s terrible.”
She let out a frustrated groan and walked back in the bedroom. Her meal was finished and out when she returned. The plate of waffles stacked high had a bottle of maple syrup and milk next to it. Each layer had a dab of butter in between them.
“Looks amazing Tavi!” The unicorn said with glee as her magic wrapped around the first one. The bottle of syrup floated over it and gave a healthy squirt of the thick liquid. She took a bite and her eyes woke up with glee. “Mmmmm! incredible!:
“Vinyl. Not with food in your mouth.” I did my best to impersonate Octavia. Though I have to admit. Being proper is so boring. I grabbed my small cup from the cupboard. The one that is used every morning to make me a nice cup of tea. It’s the only way Octavia survives with a sane mind around this mare.
She finished her meal. She stood up and put on her glasses. “Well enjoy your day off dear. I have to go to work now. Mandatory staff meeting and improvements before tonight.” She gave me a kiss on the lips and she walked out of the apartment shutting the door.
So it’s just me. What could I do? Hmmm…. I got it. I can Read more of the diary. I grabbed the book and unlocked it again. Sitting on the couch with another warm cup of tea next to me I began to read. Every word was writen in amazing penmenship for being an earth pony. Cursive was amazing.
I should begin to practice that. Grabbing another sheet of paper and a pencil in my muzzle I began copying every word. The letters had to flow exactly like hers if I had to sign anything.
I sat there for hours reading and practicing. There was a knock at the door. “Mail’s here!” Just a friendly neighbor that annoyed Octavia. I choose to wait until I was the the stallion was gone.
Grabbing the key for our box I walked down the few flights of stairs. I found the box labeled 3-H and opened it up. Inside was a few magazines. One was for “Lettuce of the Month” another was “Fancy Talks” and the last was for Vinyl. Her copy of “Celestia’s Secret”. In the far back was an envelope. Pulling it out I looked at the front. It was from the royal castle. Turning it over I saw the big red blob of wax pressed into it with Celestia’s cutie mark.
I quickly rushed to the apartment and opened it up. Inside was the check for the performance. 200,000 bits. I was astounded. 3 days as a pony and Celestia was paying me huge bits. I grabbed my saddlebags full of bits and picking up the check with my mouth I quickly left the building and ran down the street.
The bank was a few turns away from the apartment. I remembered it from my escape paths. There was one just behind it in the alley. I walked inside the large boring building. But inside was a different story. A high ceiling with a stone floor and large columns made of limestone ran up the walls holding the roof.
I made my way to the line for a teller and waited. Guards were at every door, window, exit and corner. This place was as safe as the castle. I made my way to the front and the teller greeted me. “Hello.” The young mare sounded excited to work.
“Hello, I would like to deposit this check.” I sat the small piece of paper in the tray and she pulled it in.
“Okay. 200,000 bits to your savings account?”
“Yes ma’am,”
“Just give me your account number and we can get started.”
“Zero five. Two eight. Nineteen. Ninety six.”
“Thank you. And enter your pin.” She directed me to the small pad of numbers and buttons. Octavia made it easy. She used her birth date and Vinyl’s stage name. I pressed the numbers in 7-6-6-3 Pon3. The mare nodded and did some clicks on her computer. “Thank you very much. Your balance is now 374,050 bits. Have a nice day ms. Melody.”
“Thanks. You too.” I walked out of the bank. Whoa… I’m rich! I had to do something. But it was getting late. Vinyl wouldn’t be home until late. I’ll wait with her.
I walked home and walked inside. My nose picked up a familiar smell. Meat. Then in no time my eyes became their natural slits and focused on a rat running across the living room floor.
My instincts took over. I’ve gone days without meat. I instantly pounced trapping the meal. My fangs revealed themselves and I took a chomp into the rodent. Tearing out it’s side I devoured the vermin. Skin and bones. A bit of blood got on the carpet. But she wouldn’t notice.
I finally settled down. My craving quenched for now. I’ll have to hunt small meals if I want to stay sane. I return to the couch and picked up reading. My eyes felt heavy as I finished the diary. Adding my own section about the attacks. Making it seem like I was abducted and walked my way back from the everfree forest,
I shut the book and locked it. Laying my chin on it I drifted into sleep.
It didn’t last long until Vinyl woke me up. It was 1 am. She just got off and with a scream she pointed out the half eaten rat. “Octavia!!! Rat!”
I quickly shot up and began to panic. I used my tail and flicked it into the corner and eventually into the hall.
Vinyl was panting heavily like she saw a ghost. In my bloodlust I didn’t realize I only ate half of it. My mouth still had some blood dried up on my upper lip. “Octavia! We have something in here that ate that rat and left it here!”
“No no no. Don’t worry honey.” I walked over and hugged her close. Licking my lip clean. “There’s nothing here that will harm a living animal. Relax. It was probably a cruel prank from those brats downstairs.”
“Yeah… Yeah you’re right.” She came to her senses and relaxed. “Thanks Tavi. You always know what to say.” She nuzzled me a bit and walked to the bedroom.
“That was too close…” I said under my breathe as I joined her for another night. Kissing her on the cheek she took her position from last night and quickly fell asleep. I drifted off again and went into a dreamland.
It was black but all I could see was multiple scenarios. Me continuing to fight. Octavia without the spear in her chest. Shining catching me. Vinyl catching me… I was more worried about Vinyl than Shining now. I can’t hurt Vinyl. I love her too much. I’ll have to stop all craving for meat. Before she begins to ask what’s wrong.
Time passed. Me and Vinyl became closer and closer. It felt as though we were one pony. It was incredible. She would work late at night and I would leave and perform on the streets. The bits I received were quickly donated to help out orphanages. Those were my favorite to play at.
Watching all the little fillies and colts gather around and hum with my music. It filled me up with joy to watch them all smile. Their lives were tough enough. I just made it softer.
With another morning came the same routine. Vinyl got up, took her shower. I awoke took mine. We meet for breakfast and shared a kiss as she left for the club. She was working so many hours a week. It was like she had two jobs.
Every saturday was date night and today was no different. She had an auto DJ playing at the club she worked at. She was only called in if they wanted a live performer. We both went through or daily habit and retreated into the bedroom. Getting dressed I put on my dress and she her jacket and top.
She certainly liked to be the “stallion” of the relationship. She was laid back, relaxing and always fun to be around. She tied her mane back with a ponytail. Her mane was flat against her head. She held out a foreleg for me and I quickly wrapped around it.
My dress was a bit short. The flower design had two main makes on it. The beautiful blue and white petaled tulips around the edges of the dress. And the dark blue worked for a perfect background.
I wrapped my foreleg around her’s and we began to walk out of the building. Coming into light she flipped her glasses on to eyes. I squinted and dealt with it. We made our way down the road and to the movie theater just like the passed few saturdays.
We bought our tickets and found a spot amongst the other ponies. Vinyl seemed uneasy but with a quick nuzzle on her cheek, she calmed down.
We never paid much attention to them. Usually we nuzzled each other and talked since movies weren’t that popular here. We would eat popcorn and on one occasion we had some… Naughty fun.
After the movie ended, we left and got ice cream. I got a delicious vanilla and chocolate with hot fudge on top. It was awesome. We ended up sitting on a bench in the park as we shared our weeks. Her’s was much more interesting than mine.
I licked up all I could and was immediately was meet by her tongue running up my muzzle.
“Sorry.” She said licking her lips. “You had some ice cream on your nose.” Her horn glowed and her gentle smile matched. The last bit of her cone disappeared in her mouth.
“Oh. Thanks Vinyl.”
“My pleasure Tavi.” She giggled a bit and climbed off the bench.
I stood up and followed her through the park. Our stroll was incredible. The soft dirt under my hooves, the plants, flowers, trees all full of life. The colts and fillies ran around having fun. And the occasional delectable, juicy, blood filled… Squirrel came by…
“Tavi!” Vinyl shouted in my ear.
“Whoa!” I shook my head quickly. “What’s happening?”
“You were drooling, badly. You feeling okay? You seem out of it.” Her voice sounded slightly worried.
“Oh.” I wiped my mouth with a napkin I stored in the dresses pocket. “Thanks. Yes I’m fine dear. Just, zoned out for a moment is all. Where were we now?”
“Time to head home. It’s getting late.” I nodded in agreement and wrapped a leg around hers.
We finished our walk through town and returned to our apartment. She went to the couch as I moved to the bedroom. Removing the dress I started thinking. I’ve barely meet this mare, 3 weeks ago I never heard of her. And now here I am. In her room, stripping from everything even my collar. I’ve grown accustomed to this, and I am absolutely in love.
The thought creeped into my mind…
“Oh Vinyl~” I said in my softest of most sensual of voices. Eyeing my drawer full of clothes. I lifted my favorite items out. Four thigh high pink and black striped socks. I called out again. “Vinyl honey~”
“What?!” She was annoyed. Her show was on but she could never resist these. As I laid on the bed tugging them on she shouted again.
“Come here dear~” I called out again to answer her question. Within moments I heard her hooves against the floor as she moved to the bedroom. The door swung open and her jaw dropped. Within seconds it had begun.
The sun rose. The magnificent orange ball never ceases to amaze me. I woke up with Vinyl on my chest, her head resting gently on my chest fluff. I gave her mane a few swipes and kissed her forehead. I sat up on the bed, gently letting her head take place on a pillow. Pushing off the bed I got on my hooves, still covered by the soft, warm, cozy stockings I wore for our fun late last night.
Turning on the bathtub faucet I checked the temperature, much too cold for me. I quickly looked in the mirror. My mane was a mess. The normally puffy front was a huge mess, multiple splits and flattened chunks. The combed majority had been ruffled and dragged every which way across the bed.
“This will take forever to fix.” I looked in the bedroom again, Vinyl was still dead asleep. I never woke before her, unless she was out drinking or after a good session.
Walking back over to the tub, I gently lowered myself in. My tail and mane spread out on the water top while my body sunk to the bottom of the large porcelain tub. Water raised up to my neck, covering the part where my bow tie and collar go.
It felt incredible to relax. My muscles rested as I soaked last night away. It was magical, the love I felt from her was more than I have from any other pony, but I couldn’t keep it. I almost lost my pony mind seeing that squirrel yesterday, if I feed on love I would instantly become a changeling.
Time passed as my eyes were closed. The bed squeaked letting me know my beautiful marefriend was awake. She walked in the bathroom, her mane was an absolute mess… I loved it. Using her magic she opened the drawer and grabbed her toothbrush and toothpaste.
“Morning Octavia.” She lifted it to her mouth and began to brush her teeth.
“Morning Vinyl, care to join?” I shifted over in the tub holding a foreleg across the back for her. She nodded and continued brushing. After a few minutes she spit out the white fuzz that forming in her mouth and joined me in the tub.
The water came up to our chins so we let some drain lowering it to our necks again. She cuddled into me as the warm water surrounded our bodies. I gave her a kiss on her forehead and dunked under for a second. Popping back up she giggled. My soaked mane was over my eyes, with a quick nuzzle she split it so I could see.
“Thanks Vinyl.” I pulled the sleepy unicorn close and gave her another kiss. Her face looked so peaceful when she was sleepy. We sat in the tub for a few more moments and climbed out.
Vinyl quickly did what she always did and used her magic to instantly dry off. Her mane perfect as it was before. She looked to me and giggled as I struggled with the towel.
“Why don’t you ever help me out?”
“Because the last time I did you yelled at me.”
“I… Yeah…” She did help me once. Only issue is she gave me her mane colors and style. It took us all day to fix it. Vinyl knew her way around levitation spells, but she often messed up on others.
She walked out and I sat in front of the mirror. “Time to style this mess.” My hooves came up to my hair with a comb and began to run it through. I straightened my mane and decided to try something different.
I separated the back part into three strands. I began to pick them up and set them on one another. Pulling them up and across, repeating with each strand in order. Left over middle, right over middle, left over middle, right over middle. This went on for awhile. I was working with the feel of my hooves and the mane over my shoulder.
When I opened my eyes, there it was, the braid was perfect. Just how I imagined it would be. I wondered if Vinyl would like it… Putting a hair tie around the end, I trotted out of the bathroom and to the living room.
“Oh Vinyl,” I walked in and posed holding the braid over my hoof so she could see it. “what do you think?”
Her eyes opened wide. Her focus left from the cup of coffee she was pouring and to my mane. The cup quickly overflowed and some landed on her hoof. “Ow!” She quickly snapped out of her trance-like state and set the coffee pot down.
“So? Do you like it?” I walked next to her and grabbed my tea kettle and filled it with water.
“Octavia… It’s beautiful, but I liked your other mane. But definatly a good second option!” She cleaned up her small mess and grabbed her toast from the toaster.
I had to let out a small giggle. “Alright, I’ll swap back after I get my tea started.” Turning on the stovetop, I set the tea bag in the water and set the lid on top. Joining her on at the counter.
“It is really nice. Just different then what I am used to.” She nuzzled me. I must admit that did cheer me up. It wasn’t difficult work, just took some time.
I nodded in agreement and started unwinding my mane. The braid quickly came out and returned to it’s normal shape. The kettle began to whistle and I quickly removed it from the heat source.
Pouring it in my favorite teacup, hoofcrafted by Vinyl with love, I filled it and grabbed a few breakfast sandwhiches. The small triangle shaped sandwiches had lettuce, tomato, and some mayo. My craving for meat has become stronger every time I see an animal. The prey looks so tender and tasty. Yet I rarely have to leave the apartment so it’s been easy to control it.
We sat and talked. Plans for the day, ponies to talk to, how much we hated co-workers, and how I loved my job. Her job required long hours and lots of other workers. She despised them. Most could barely put a beat to a song, but she did like the company of some.
She gave me a kiss and strapped herself to her saddlebags. Leaving me alone for the day, but I wasn’t alone. There were rats everywhere. I could hear them. The apartment next door was vacant and nopony ever cleaned. It was time to do something.
I walked downstairs and knocked on the door of the largest apartment. The landlord lived there, she was kinda mean, lazy, and cheap. Offering her a free extermination job would be perfect. The annoying noises would stop and she might be able to sell it, a win win situation!
The doorknob turned and it swung in. The mare was standing there she looked, and smelled, like shes been surviving off of… Yeah… Old cheap pasta and take out…
“Hello? May I help you?”
“Yes, please. I was wondering if I could offer to clean out apartment 9-H. I’ll do it for free.”
Her eyes lit up to the word. But she quickly got a look her in face. She thought she could get some money out of me, but that wasn’t about to happen.
“Well, as much as I would love to let you clean it. I simply can’t. You’re not a professional exterminator. So the only ‘legal’ way you could do this was to rent it out and clear it.” She held out her hoof expecting a bag of bits.
“Oh? Okay, and then I can sue you for bad living conditions of a property in your care. How would that sound?”
She cleared her throat and put her hoof down. “Yes. Of course, right. Feel free to clear it. I’ll even give you a discount on next months rent if you don’t mention it to anypony.”
“Of course. Have a nice day.” I took the key from her hoof and trotted back upstairs. My mouth was filling with saliva as I could taste the meat in it. I put the key in the lock and gave it a twist. Pushing it in I instantly was greeted by three rats trying to escape.
With a quick movement of my hooves I stomped on their tails and held them there. When I had a chance I tossed them back in the room shutting the door. The place was dark. The place smelled disgusting. Rat droppings and mildew everywhere. I walked to the window and split the blinds.
It was worse than I could imagine…
Empty chewed up pizza boxes laid strewn across the whole living room. The couch was stained terribly and the rats scattered. There were two inches of disgustingness everywhere. A thick layer of dust covered everything exposed.
“Perfect… For the hunt.” I grinned deviously and shut the blinds. The whole room went black again. A green flame lit up the room as I took my true form. My wings unfolded and I started flapping and flexing them. “Ahhhh…. I haven’t seen these in months.” Using my horn as a light I scanned the ground. Rats didn’t notice this light. They never did, such easy prey.
My mouth opened and my fangs flashed. My hooves pushed off the ground and I cleanly cleared half the room. My mouth snapped around an unsuspecting rat and I quickly devoured it. Instantly I lost control. My body never felt stronger. The love from Vinyl with the correct diet made me feel incredible.
Spotting the next snack I crouched down. With a powerful push I leaped to the corner. My fangs sinking into its skin and quickly devoured another. For hours I hunted, pouncing and chasing and chewing.
It all ended when the final fat rat went down my throat. Stomach bulging as I laid down on the couch. I didn’t care about the stains. Or what they were. It was wonderful to relax with a full meal. I rolled off the couch and stood up.
My mind was clear, cravings gone. I stood up and changed back to normal. Rubbing my forehead I checked for a horn, same with my back for wings. It’s been a long time since I’ve changed. Just had to check. There were tales back in the caves about changelings like me. They said if we didn’t change back and forth often we would become a pony forever.
With the final check of my tail, I left the apartment locking it shut. I returned the key to the landlord. She greeted me with a uncomfortable grunt, slamming the door in my face she began to yell. Why? I don’t know, don’t care.
Returning to the apartment I walked in and took my spot on the couch. Satisfied with today’s hunt, my eyes gently shut and I fell asleep in no time.
I awoke to Vinyl screaming again. Next thing I knew, as I sat up a blunt object nailed me in the side of the head. Everything went black.
My eyes woke up. Vinyl standing in front of me with a taser and a knife in her magical grasp. The room was dark and her face was litten up. I couldn’t see my muzzle, I’m sure I didn’t want to. Come to think of it I could barely see anything.
“Who are you and why are you here?” She yelled in my barely conscious face. Drougily I tried opening my eyes more. They were swollen over and my cheek matched them. Blood dripped from my nose as she shouted again. “Who are you and why are you here?! Come on! Speak!”
I coughed a bit and everything came into focus. My mouth opened. “Vinyl! It’s me! Octavia!”
“Silence!” She hit me again with her hoof. The stinging sensation lasted for minutes as she paced back and forth. “Okay. Who are you? Why are you here?”
I looked down. My chest and hooves were tied to a chair. The uncomfortable position hurt my back and my wings. My wings! They didn’t change!
Slap! Her hoof came across my face again. “Answer me, Changeling!”
“I’m… I don’t have a name!”
“Don’t have a name? Explain, monster.” She held the knife close to my throat. My neck extended up and I immediately was flashed by a lamp. I quickly snapped down back to her.
“I’m a changeling. The queen doesn’t give us name because we mean nothing. We live, we fight, the stallions breed with her. The mares die off or be lucky and replace the queen when she becomes too old.”
“So, what are you? Male or female?”
“Female! I’m a mare.”
“How long have you been here?”
“A few months. Since the wedding. I found Octavia dead-”
“You what!?” The electronic defense weapon was jammed into my collar and gave me an intense shock. My muscles tensed up as I lost all control. Spazzing in the restraints she finally removed it, allowing me to get my breath back. “You ‘found’ her? What did you do?”
Panting heavily I spoke between breathes. “I… Didn’t hurt her… I swear… I didn’t want to hurt anypony… So I took over her life… Abandoning the changelings…” I spit up some spit mixed with blood and a tooth.
She stood in thought. Her hoof under her chin as tears began to form in her eyes.
“Vinyl… I’m sorry. But…”
“But…? But what!? Tell me!”
“I’ve always wanted to be a pony. Ever since I was small. I watched fillies and colts. Mares and stallions. Pegasi, unicorns, and earth ponies. I couldn’t resist this chance.” Tears began to roll down my cheeks and my head fell forward. “I’m so sorry… So… Sorry…”
“Why?”
“Why what?”
“Why did you pick her? There were plenty of dead ponies to pick from. Why Octavia!?” She lifted me and held me upside down with magic. Blood rushed to my head and I began to choke on my own blood. She sat me down and asked the same question again.
“I picked her. Because I always enjoyed music. We never had it in the caves. And the cello is an amazing instrument. When I first imponiated her I was lost. I lived on the streets and played music on the streets for even the smallest of bits. I should’ve told you sooner.”
“Yes you should’ve. It makes this part even harder.” She turned and walked to the phone.
“No please!”
“What?” “Please! Don’t report me! I… I want to show you I’m harmless.”
“I know you’re harmless. But you still attacked Canterlot. Your kind is banned from Equestria and it’s my job as a citizen to report you to the authorities.” She began to punch numbers on the dialpad and held it to her ear. I could hear the ringing.
“If… If you do! You’ll never find Octavia’s body!”
Her eyebrow raised to me. Her eyes curious of what to think of. “Her body?”
“Yes! Yes… I respected her with all I could and buried her. But if you kill me you’ll never find her grave.”
She hung up quickly. Setting the knife down she walked over to me and picked me up by the ropes. “Listen. I don’t want any funny business. We are going to let you recover. Then we will go find her grave. If anything happens. You step out of line. You leave the house. I will hunt you down and personally give you to Shining Armor.”
I nodded quickly. “Yes yes! Of course! I promise! I promise!”
“Good.” The knife floated over again and she cut me free of the ropes. I moved my hooves and body. The ropes left a good dent from being so tight against me. I stood up and she stood giving me the worst glare ever. “You. Sleep on the couch. And wear this.” She tossed a collar to me. The red strap had a large black box with two metal prongs on the inside.
Wrapping the collar around my neck, I clipped it together. “What’s this?”
“Shock Collar. You get 50 feet away from me and 100 volts of electricity will shock you. Every ten hooves. 100 more volts. Got it?”
“Yes ma’am…” I sat on the couch and took my position. Hiding behind my tail. Her door shut and I finally relaxed and fell asleep.
A few days passed. She kept me fed and tended to my wounds. Each bruise and swell on my body went away shortly. She didn’t like it but she had to keep me alive. Our days went without any words. She called in sick and sat home to watch me.
As I finished recovering she decided to go with me. Around 10 am after we finished breakfast she made me change to Octavia. With a few rough shoves and a very threatening message we walked down the stairs and out of the building. Going down the streets I looked nervously around. Unless I could get the bracelet off her ankle I would be shocked.
I submitted to her as we walked through town. She told me when to turn keeping us in the shadows and back alleys. We eventually made our way to the train station gates. Shining picked up security before he left. Everypony had to be identified before leaving. Vinyl let the guards examine our ID’s and cutie marks to make sure we were legal. Letting us pass we began to walk down the mountain.
The rocks were loose and I slide with every step. My head focused forward knowing now she would hit me without care. We approached the bottom of the mountain and walked to the tree line of the nearby forest.
“Here she is. Octaiva Melody’s grave.” I sat down next to the grave. The grass was still growing in and the dirt wasn’t quite settled down. The unicorn came up shortly after and she took a seat in front of it. Her eyes began flowing tears as she cried in silence.
We sat there for 20 minutes. She cried and sniffled. I sat waiting, hopeless to run. She finally stopped and looked to me. Clearing her face she touched the makeshift tombstone and kissed it. “I’ll miss you Octavia… But it’s like you never left.”
Next thing I knew she was in my face. She quickly wrapped around me. Crying gently into my shoulder. I slowly wrapped around her unsure what to do. Patting her back she slowly calmed down.
“Thanks…” She cleared her eyes again and stepped back. “You… You’re free to go.” She removed the collar and turned around.
I turned and faced the forest. Looking back she was still wiping her face. It hurt her to say goodbye to me as much as it was to lose Octavia. I couldn’t do it to her or get caught. I quickly ran to it. Changing to my true form I took flight and disappeared into the sky.
The air was amazing. I missed it so much, The freedom, the magic, the sky, the meat. I couldn’t resist it. I couldn’t go back. I would be dead in an hour. I flew away, tears flowing in the wind. I kept going. I couldn’t stop and wouldn’t.
Going, going, going. I never stopped until the sun went down and the moon came up. Turning around all of Equestria was out of sight. All that surrounded me was ocean and clouds. I found a spot and nuzzled into it. Covering myself with the soft white shape I closed my eyes and fell asleep. My life as a Changeling has begun again.
Waking up the next day hidden in that cloud was hell. I barely slept and what little I did was a nightmare. Returning to Chrysalis and seeing her punish me. Returning to her would be like going to Shining. I’d be killed and used as an example, to the rest of the race, to never act this way. I’d be killed on the spot and without mercy.
The nightmares only made me just want to sit in the cloud all day. But I knew I would have to start again. Make a new pony persona and live that life. So I decided to do it. Poking my head out of the cloud I saw the rest of the sky. It was black, a storm was coming. As angry as Vinyl was.
I couldn’t stand to even be myself right now. I hurt her more than leaving Octavia in the alley. I wanted to run but I couldn’t. All I knew was music and attacking. I needed to return. Get the cello and start anew.
Scanning the skies, I saw no openings. The clouds were thick and black. And all I could do was blame myself. I wanted to hit myself! I was so mad! Because I messed up I’m going to die. Alone, cold, and on an empty stomach most likely.
No. I couldn’t. I owed it to Vinyl to make her happy and that’s what I’m going to do. WIth a nights rest and the belly full of food I should have enough power…
My horn began to glow it’s green flame. Powering up as I focused. It was body or teleport so I had to get this correct. Being so far away I wouldn’t have any power to even move after. I’ll be a sitting duck again.
My magic kept building sending a green light to every cloud around me. The thick dark clouds began to storm. The rain pelted everything hard. My head was being hit over and over by the annoying pellets.
My eyes opened and the green flash dispersed.
Next thing I knew it was over. There were no clouds. There was no rain. Only the soft comfortable couch… In apartment 3-G… I tried to move, but as my hooves made contact with the ground my body tensed up. The pain was unbelievable. All the pain Vinyl gave me was nothing compared to this. And this was nothing compared to hurting her. I had to make it right.
My head laid against the ground and I settled down. I needed to rest. Hopefully no pony would rent it while I napped for a few hours. Spreading out on the carpeted floor my eyes shut and I passed out.
When I awoke my stomach was growling. Standing up I felt fully rested. Checking every joint and movement I could do. Nothing was wrong. I recovered fine. Time to face her… With a quick change I became Octavia again and went to leave.
Opening the door I was greeted by the landlord. Her face covered in a large frown. She. Was. Mad. Furious steam coming out of every opening in her face. “You! Why?!”
“What did I do!?” Backing up quickly. Did Vinyl tell her!?
“You made Vinyl leave! My highest paying resident left! Now I have to clean this mess up and rent it out! My party room is gone! Thanks you useless musician!” She walked in and began to clean mumbling. It would be best to leave her alone. Sliding out the door I walked to the room over.
Unlocking it I walked in. Everything was still in place. Vinyl had her suitcase out. It was time for her to go to work. I’ll just… I’ll pack for her. She’ll be mad but I… I just need forgiveness. Filling the case with clothes, snacks, and other utensils, I zipped it tight and set it up by the door.
Hours passed and she returned home. Immediately I greeted her. Ears down, bowing to her.
“What are you doing here?” Her voice was serious. Her glasses were gone. She didn’t even have them on her horn. This wasn’t good.
“I came to apologize.”
“Apologize… Apologize!? You think you can walk in here with your army, shoot some lasers, kick some ponies, defeat Celestia, kill my marefriend and then take over her life and you think you can come back and apologize and everything will be alright!? Do you!?”
“No… That’s why… I’m willing to turn myself in. If you wish me too. I will go find Shining. And tell him the story. You can even drag me across the world by my mane. I just want your forgiveness.”
She stood there, thinking and answering her thoughts. She couldn’t decide what to do. But she liked my idea. She would love to me hung off the bridge. Or maybe my head fall in a basket from the headspony axe. Seconds felt like minutes. Minutes felt like hours. We stood staring at each other.
I couldn’t stand it. So I had to make her trust me. I took the collar from the counter and put it back on. Tossing her the bracelet. With a quick glance she set it down where I got it.
“Listen. I… I don’t know what to do. I’m so angry I can’t show it. I want to myself strangle you and leave you to the timberwolves. But there’s something…
“What is it…?”
“You didn’t do it on purpose. You tried to defend me. You tried to make it softer. You tried to make it never happen. And you did a great job. But why did you change your wings back?”
“I had a craving for meat… All changelings do and the apartment next door was full of them. So I did some hunting. Stopped my craving. And because I haven’t been practicing changing, I guess I changed in my sleep.”
“I see. Well here’s the deal. Me and Octavia were close to breaking up as it is.A few weeks before the wedding we had a big arguement. I ended up on the couch. Then she died. And I was lost. I came home and sat up every night waiting for her to return. But it didn’t happen. Then the wedding came.”
“Yes. The first time we meet.”
“And you gave me so much hope. You were back. Well, she was. I was so sorry I thought she ran away. And when you came back I was so happy. But the biggest thing, that is making me talk to you now. Is the fact that you rekindled my love for her. And now I realize it’s actually for you.”
Did she just say she loved me? No way!? A week ago she wanted to kill me!
“When you flew off I wanted to stop you. But by the time I decided to you were long gone. I wasn’t able to. So I took the advice my mother always told me.”
“What was that?”
She walked closer. Our muzzles inches away from each other. “If you love something. Set it free. If it comes back.” She magic pulled at the collar I put on as she dragged me to her. “It’s always yours.” She pulled me in. Our lips locked and she began to kiss me. Her tongue entered my mouth.
I was in full shock as she did this. It felt wrong, but so right. I was so confused I pushed her back.
“I… I took your marefriend’s life and you’re making out with me?!”
“Yup. Like I said earlier. It was dying between us. But my first suspicion came when you braided your mane. Tavi never did anything fun and free like that.”
“So… What are you going to do with me…?”
“Oh… I don’t know…” Her voice was carefree and taunting at the same time. “Maybe… Give you to Shining. It’s what you want. I might just keep you as my Octavia sex pet. You obviously know how to do that.” I couldn’t help but blush to that comment. She really did like those nights… “Or, I might do this.”
“Do what…?”
She kneeled down. Her horn glowed and a small large black box floated from her saddlebag. It opened up and inside was a large gold band ring. On top was a large setting of diamonds and amethysts. They matched my cutie marks color perfectly. And that’s when the words came out.
“Octavia Melody. Will you make me the happiest mare in Equestria and marry me?”
I began to tear up. My goal has been accomplished. Become accepted for who I was.
“Yes! Yes Vinyl Yes!” I blurted out. Ignoring all the pain she put me through I embraced her a big joyful teary hug. I couldn’t control myself. I loved her, and I always will.
“I’m sorry I treated you how-”
I cut her off by giving her the most passionate filled kiss of my live. Melting into her hooves as she held me close to her. After a few minutes we pulled apart blushing heavily. “Shush. It’s okay Vinyl. You’re forgiven.”
She nodded and we continued the hug. It was set. We were to marry in the city hall.
Months passed. We were married. Vinyl and Octavia Scratch. I took her name because well… Our relationship turned into a pet and master situation… Anyways ignore that.
We opened a shop. I made some money doing concerts and quit the band. Vinyl left the club and we started a music shop. Exactly in the building I bought my first music book.
Nopony knows Octavia is really dead. But every big event in our relationship we go and place flowers at her grave. She still gets teary but every time I am there for her to cry on.
We also left the apartment. Bought a house in the city and made a life out of there. Until the shop was on it’s hooves we worked hard. I played on the streets and around the castle. Vinyl gave computer and music making lessons.
When we finally managed to get “Melody and Scratch Records” on its hooves we stopped. I still enjoy playing on the street for some bits. But every coin I get goes to recovery from the changeling attack.
Construction was slow. We had a lack of builders because of the new law. Most ponies never registered to get a license if they were outside Canterlot. But it was coming along.
And so was the foal in my stomach. We volunteered for a experiment. They took our DNA and forced an egg to start forming a foal. After a few days they planted it in my womb and were expecting a new one in a couple months.
I wrote this to inspire everypony to be themselves. No matter what, if it’s love. It will work out. The fun we have had has only begun. And it will never end. I hope you liked it.
