Octavia is really really bloody bored with her mundane life at school. She doesn't care about the everyday intrigues of life. But then the thing we all knew was going to happen happens. Eyyup this is an Octo Scratch fic. Hope it's not over generic...
Urgh, dullery, after dullery after dullery. Does it matter that Honeycomb is cheating on her sister's best friend cousin's boyfriend? Certainly not in the mind of Octavia Melody. the annoyed cellist caught up in a school, she simply hasn't the time for. Look Midnight, I can do my own intro Sorry... Well you've put me off now. Yes where was I? So recently, like I've said life is really really dull. But perhaps, just perhaps, it might be looking up for me. Earlier the new Girl, the white unicorn with the dodgy specs, and the dodgy headphones, and dodgy tastes in music, arrived in my music hall. We had a nice chat, and not to be presumptuous, but I think I've made a new friend. Result!
Okay you've got the premise out of the way. May I please do the tags, and the technical stuff? But of course, that's your line of work, you're the writer. I'm just the protagonist. I'm not really sure what I'm doing in this part to begin with. *sigh* Neither do I. Thank you Octavia
There will be no explicit content here. Although it will be heavily referenced, so you'll know about it if it happens. I'd just rather not write that stuff. Honestly, dirty minded Midnight. Oh wait... Look it's essential to the plot. But yes, for an asexual, I'm pretty dirty minded. Asexual? Nevermind Octavia. I hope you all enjoy reading this as much as I enjoyed writing it. Source to Cover Art: Here
All chapters post chapter 4 have been kindly edited by the wonderful Forgotten Existance
“So she said to me…” Urgh, I simply cannot abide by this this anymore. Bloody idle gossip seriously gets on my nerves. Simply put, I could not give a fuck who’s fucking who, pun certainly intended. All I bloody get nowadays. Doesn’t anyone have any other topic to discuss?
“Oh Celestia! Serious?”
Oh here we go, someone’s been honest and is paying the price. So I suppose this one’s backstabbing that one, and she’s sleeping with her coltfriend, or some other such nonsense. Bah I suppose it’s interesting to those involved.
As for me, I won’t be so pretentious as to claim I have anything better going on. Luna no. I’m just an angry cellist, with too much spare time on her hooves. Anyway I’d better explain the situation. I’m in the school common room during a free lesson. Listening to this shit. Not at all involved in the conversation. On the contrary, I’m just sitting in a corner trying to read a book. The sheer volume of these ‘confidential’ discussions is the only reason my literature is drowned out.
Of course there are better times. Normally what I do during free lessons is go to the music hall. Sadly it’s not available now. Well foals have to learn I suppose. It is in fact a school after all. Not that I learn much. Well, saying that, Honeycomb has been sleeping with her best friend’s sister’s friend with benefits, or was it? I suppose I fail the intrigue exam. Boo hoo.
Sod this. I’ll leave this bloody common room. Surely the library will be a bit more quiet.
Nope, just the same shit, different venue. This is going to be a long day.
I really wish someone would prove me wrong. I really do.
*********
As the day draws to a close, I bugger off back home. So now it’ll be time for a good long nap, a nice warm meal, and perhaps some music. Not bad really, shame that school got in the way.
To be honest I don’t have much cause for complaint in my life. I assure you I’ve got two loving parents, a nice house in Canterlot, a superb education. So really, all I’m doing is complaining about nothing. Which depresses me even more.
Well I suppose being at home helps. Playing the cello isn’t at all depressing, seems to be the only good thing going for me at the moment. So enough with the whining shall we?
At midnight I finally decide to sleep. It’s a nice evening. I really appreciate that moonlight. Now I won’t try to ruin it with fancy words. As good as my elocution is, I’d hate to ruin a good view with dull words. I suppose that’s why I prefer music.
********* Here we go again. It’s pretty much exactly the same till I get to the weekend. Give or take the odd chance to play the cello. Still, when the weekend finally arrives, I can enjoy it.
During the weekend I don’t do much. But it does give me an opportunity to watch a few shows. I spend as much time as possible within Canterlot’s illustrious music halls. Other than that, I practice, I practice, and I practice. Sometimes I get drunk, and read a bit of bad literature too; but keep that one between you and me would you? Bah, it’s not like anyone cares. Mother and Father, are always too busy for me. If you ask me, that’s the problem with Canterlot; Rich pricks who spend more time on their career than their own family. Well at least it means I get the nice wine instead of that Luna forsaken stuff, that the poor or should I say, less well off drink.
Let’s face it Octy, my life is depressing. I’ve got no friends, no life, nothing really. Well a nice cello, and as much posh wine as I can drink. Bah, it’s all I need. Huzzah for Canterlot!
I suppose I have it better than most don’t I?. In that case, bugger the problems. The main cause is probably teen angst, or some other such bollocks. Perhaps my problem is not finding a purpose? So that could be why I enjoy weekends? Well you know what sounds like a good idea now?
That’s right!
A nice glass of wine. Like I said, bugger the problems. Wine and cello. I may as well enjoy the weekend while it’s there.
********
Note to self. Don’t drink too much wine on a Sunday, no matter how enjoyable it is.
Ah well. I’ve only two lessons today. And I’m pretty sure the music hall is free. So it’s a winner of a day.
********
Huh, I don’t even have any cause for complaint. Those lessons weren’t even that bad. They weren’t great by any means, but they weren’t at all bad. And now it’s about time to go to the music hall.
Now this is when I’m in my essence. I can play all I like here. There isn’t anything to interrupt me, nothing to hinder me, I can just escape into this world of music. I don’t really know any words that can describe such a feeling.
What’s the word for when it feels inside your heart, that everything in the world is alright? Well that one.
For at least half an hour, life is perfect. There is no trouble, there is no distraction, there’s no gossip. There’s only me and the music.
But like all good things, it ends. I gain an audience. The door opens slightly. Right, am I about to get a bollocking for that homework?
“Umm, hey!” Ah it’s the new filly from Manehattan. White unicorn, headphones on all the time, big shades. Oh poor thing, she’s trying to put on a demeanor of self confidence, but this is getting pretty bloody awkward. “I thought the music hall would be free. I see it’s not so…” She hung around the door.
“Oh don’t worry about it, please come in… Err what was your name?” Damn my etiquette, if only I was nastier. Way to guilt trip me into an awkward moment Octy.
“Vinyl Scratch.”
“Nice to meet you Vinyl, may I call you Vinyl?”
“Sure.”
“Well nice to meet you.” I smile. “I’m Octavia Melody.”
“Nice to meet you Octavia. Can I call you Octavia?”
“Of course. So what brings you to my lair?” I asked gesturing towards the spacious expanse of the music hall.
“Well I thought it would be empty so err. Well I thought I could get away, maybe play I dunno.”
“Pray tell, what do you play?”
Vinyl looked around awkwardly. “Well I like electronic music.”
Oh… Well, how does one respond? “I can’t say I’m a fan unfortunately.”
“Hey it’s cool, it’s cool.” She looked around awkwardly, venturing into the hall, and eventually taking a seat in the front row. “So I take it you’re classical fan right? A cellist? Well you gonna carry on?”
“Are you sure?”
“Hey, it’s better than the rest of what’s goin’ on here. Go ahead.”
I gave a small blush. This was awkward. Did I really want to do this? I stood on the stage, trembling at my audience of one. With a crowd it’s somewhat less scary. But one pair of eyes staring at me however is terrifying. I don’t know this girl. This is the first time we’ve ever met. So every action I make will be constantly judged.
“Do you mind if I don’t? I’m feeling a little creeped by this. Normally I take a lot of mental preparation for an audience. And even then I get scared shitless. Sorry. It’s just. Well” I blubber trying to explain it all. “Really for a performer, I’m pretty crap. But I suppose it’s something I’ve got to learn.”
“Hey hey hey… It’s cool. I didn’t wanna give you any pressure or anything.”
I sigh. “Thank you.” I make my way off the stage, to take a seat next to Vinyl. “So if I may, what have you experienced so far? It took me at least a month before I gave up on the common room. You seem to have found this sanctuary a lot faster than I.”
“I guess gossip aint my thing. And neither is being the new kid. Your guys are just so up tight.”
I chuckle nervously at that. “Well Vinyl, you know how to make me uncomfortable. I’m no stranger to that insult.”
“Hey you don’t seem too bad.” She gave me a sly smile. “Yet.”
“Please refrain from that. You’re making me even more uncomfortable.”
“Looks like I’ve got a hobby here then.”
“Oh no… Anyway, how have your interactions with others fared?”
“Like I said. Up… tight.”
“Care to Elaborate Miss Scratch, this description is rather vague I must say.”
“Well it’s pretty bitchy. Not more than my old school, but you know? Kinda shitty nonetheless. Plus being the new kid, means people ain’t very nice. You know? Nopony wants to talk to the new kid.”
“Well I’d beg to differ there. Rarely do I get such company.” I neglected to mention, that I rarely get any company.
“Well in Canterlot that’s not surprising.”
“Was Manehattan any better?”
“Boo yea! It was awesome!” She says. “I had a band. I had loads of friends. We’d spend hours and hours playing, and having an all round good time. I mean yea, there was some bitchyness, but what do ya expect?”
I can’t imagine enjoying that kind of life. But then again. Was it really that far from my own ideal of a good time? I get drunk, and I play music. The only difference being the choice of drink, the type of music, and the type (or lack thereof) of company.
“That sounds, strangely enjoyable.”
“Didn’t think a Canterlot pony would say that.”
“Well I’d rather classical, and I assume you don’t partake in wine if stereotypes have any merit. And from my experience there’s no company. But other than that… It’s more or less the same.”
“Not bad. But I bet you can’t party as hard as me.” Said Vinyl as if contesting.
“Probably not.” I admitted.
“What? Really? You’re not even going to try to beat me?”
“Course not. How do I compete with an obvious party pony? When all I have is cello and wine, with a dash of loneliness?”
“Not gonna lie, sounds pretty depressing.”
“Welcome my dear Vinyl Scratch, welcome to Canterlot. I hope you enjoy your stay. Might I ask, what brings you to our fair city?”
“Mom. She married an officer of The Guard.”
I gasp “Didn’t see that coming. Knowing what very little I know about you, I’d not imagine a Guard being into, well please don’t take it as offense, but your kind of people. What I mean to say is…”
“Dig yourself deeper, why don’t you?” She chuckled.
I stomped my hooves in defeat. “What I meant to say was.”
“Go on… Ruin yourself.”
“If you’d just let me.”
“Let you what?”
“The Guards are uptight okay?!”
Vinyl laughed. “Yea I’ll give ya that. But it’s cool. I never get to see him anyway. I practically get to do what I want.”
“And what might that be?”
“Ummmmm…”
“How long exactly have you been in Canterlot?”
“A week? But it feels like a month. Or more.”
“I’m sorry we’ve been such poor hosts.”
“Hey not your problem.” Says Vinyl with a smile. “You.” Oh Sweet Celestia, she’s doing an impression of me. “Have been a most gracious and noble host.”
“And you’ve been totally frickin’ awesome too now Vinyl!” I mock back, a strain on my voice.
“Not bad.” She says.
“Neither was yours.”
*RING!!!* Oh bloody bell. Why must it cut such a nice moment short? “Do you have any lessons now?” I ask, hopefully.
“Sadly I do.”
“Well Vinyl. I’ll be here through lunch, then I’ll bugger off home.”
“You can do that?”
I gave her a knowing nod. “Do you have anything after lunch?”
Vinyl looks inside her bag, taking out a little green book. “Let me see.” She said putting on an exaggerated concentrating face. “Nope.”
“Would you then care to join me?”
Vinyl smiles, a heart warming smile. “Awesome.”
I return the smile, and bid her farewell.
The moment she’s out of the hall, I return to the stage, and start playing an upbeat little tune. Not a bad day indeed. A conversation I enjoy is a rare one indeed. And while I’d not call her a friend yet, it’ll be nice to have some company for once.
Urgh, I do hate waiting for somepony. I’m sitting in The Concert Hall with a repulsive excuse for a flower sandwich. Quite the dilemma really, on one hoof I could start playing, and it be annoyingly interrupted by Vinyl; On the other, I'm bored out of my mind. Well I suppose I could be patient, and wait till something happens. So far that seems to have been a pretty good tactic.
This time I am interrupted far less awkwardly. “Hey!” I have to praise her. After that little contact, I'd be far less confident. “How ya doin'?”
I swallow what was in my mouth. “Same as before, you?”
“Lessons here are bo-ring.”
“What did you have?”
“I had biology.”
“Oh.” I said without much interest.
“Something wrong?” Vinyl walks up, and takes the seat beside me.
“Not at all, it's just you were right. Class is rather boring, to say the least. I don't even know why I asked that question. There's probably a million and one things to find interesting about you, Vinyl Scratch. But your school classes aren't on that list.” Conversing with Vinyl Scratch is pretty difficult. Those dodgy shades, really get in the way of eye contact.
“Yea that's true. But out of curiosity, what are yours?”
“Music obviously, history, and language. Yours?”
“Well music duh. You've probably seen me there, right?”
“In passing.”
“Biology, well I've said that. And magic, but I'm thinking of dropping that.”
“Unicorns my dear Vinyl, have a gift. You should use it.”
“Hey I do! It's just soooo boring! And your teacher sucks.”
“Fair enough...” I said blankly.
“What?”
“Nothing.”
“No what? You seem annoyed.”
“No, no, sorry. Just a little hungover, and a little tired. I'm also at a loss on what to say. I could talk about the dullery of school. But that's just not something I'm interested in, and I don't think you are either. And I don't want to descend into the realms of stupid small talk. When you came in earlier, it was all spontaneous. But now I've been thinking of what to say all afternoon, and have come up with nothing. I'm just annoyed with how badly I'm faring socially.”
“Hey it's no problem. Just be yourself! No pressure.”
Vinyl and I sat there for a few moments. Awkwardly avoiding what little eye contact could be offered from under those shades. Way to kill a conversation Octy.
“Octavia?” Finally, that was more than needed.
“Yes?”
“What's the plan for this afternoon?”
“Well, firstly we wait till lunch is over. Then we'll make our way home. Unless you have any objections, I believe that mine will do. Either that or we could go watch a film? Or maybe I could treat you to a nice meal. I don't know, what takes your fancy?”
“Hey hey! No need to be so aggressive! I didn't think you Canterlot ponies were so upfront!”
“Ummm? Oh! Wait! What? No! Of course not!”
Vinyl roared with laughter. “Making you uncomfortable is so easy! It's an awesome hobby!”
I grunted in disdain. “So what do you fancy doing?”
“Well Octavia.” Oh shit, here we go. Time for her to take the piss out of my posh accent again, by doing a very poor impression. “I'd rather fancy doing you, if that's not a problem.”
“Well Octy, I sure think that making you uncomfortable would be friggin' awesome! And then I could be horribly homophobic on top of it!” I said, returning the mimic, with an equally poor impression.
“Hey! I'm lesbian! So I can't be homophobic!” Said Vinyl, she actually sounded serious. But then again, this is probably just mocking.
“Nah you're not. You're just saying that to make me uncomfortable aren't you?”
“Actually no! I am in fact a lesbian.”
Sweet Luna this is awkward. Do I believe her? Either way, the only way of finding out if I should feel guilty or not is to accept this. If she's lying she'll admit it and laugh. If it's truth, then she won't. “Okay, I believe you.” I say.
A few moments pass. “What?” I ask. “You're not going to say you're not one, to get on my nerves?”
“Nope.”
“So... Were you trying to flirt with me?”
“No, no of course not.” She says very quickly.
“Listen here Vinyl. I take that as a huge compliment. But quite frankly I'm not interested.”
“I wasn't trying to flirt with you! Celestia take a joke!”
“Okay...” Best let it slide.
Well this made things very awkward, very quickly. A few moments passed again in silence. “So?” I ask. Well there's no reason to let one awkward moment evolve into a ruined afternoon. “What do you fancy doing this afternoon?”
“Well, we could go to your place, maybe you could even share some of that wine for once.”
“Sounds lovely.”
As if on cue the bell rang. Welcoming an end to our lunch hour.
“Well then.” I say. “Shall we depart?”
“Awesome.”
********
Sneaking out of school is really easy. All one needs to do is tick off at the front desk, and walk out the back door. Rarely does anyone catch you. True if one hangs around really close to the school, one will get caught. But really, you deserve to get it, if you do something that stupid.
Fifteen minutes later, Vinyl and I were in my study. “Woah, nice!”
“I thank you.” I said in an attempt at modesty. The study, had on one side a wall length bookshelf, two sofas, and a few armchairs. On the other, was my cello, and an assortment of musical devices. And finally slap bang in the middle was my desk, which looked out over the mountains of Canterlot. “I’m so glad you like it. So might I get you anything?”
“Well I’mma gonna cut to the chase. We were talkin’ about wine?” Wow, now I didn’t expect that. Well who am I to judge such matters? I’ve not had friends since playdates when I was a child. So I suppose this is just the norm. Then again, I get a dodgy feeling from this.
“Of course, I was just concerned, isn’t it a tad early for alcohol?”
“Hey come on!” She gives me a strange look. “You know you wanna.” Fair point. It does sound like fun, surely no harm can come of it.
********
When I returned Vinyl was sitting on one of the sofas, looking at my library. “Oh hey!”
“Alright, remember, just one bottle. Enough to make things fun, but not enough to cause offense.”
“Hey sure thing Octavia!”
“Goodo then.” I pop open the bottle. “Oh um… Glasses… Just a minute.”
“Sure thing.”
********
Five minutes later, I had returned holding two glasses. Oh for fuck’s sake! She’s not is she? Seriously? She’s drinking from the bottle? I slam down the wine on the table. “One simply doesn’t do that!”
“Hey! What ‘sno big deal!”
“Urgh” I grumble slightly. “Alright.” Complaining isn’t going to solve anything. From what little I know about Vinyl, it’ll mean she’d continue doing that just to annoy me. But I can still get my revenge. I pour a slightly larger glass to myself.
“Cheers!” I offer. “To new friends.”
“To new friends.” We clink glasses together.
“So tell me Vinyl, what of your old ones?”
“Well…” Vinyl begins. “Our band was called The Paralytics. And that’s what we’d do. Every Friday night.” She slurps on her wine. “We’d go party!”
“Yes, but what does a party entail? Well a Manehattan one?”
“Well we’d go to the park, with a few bottles. Or if we could get away with it, a club. Sometimes we’d get lucky and somepony’s house would be free. Then we’d drink, and play music. It’s pretty simple actually.”
“Well, sounds rather straightforward.” I took a sip of my wine. “So, would this count?”
“I guess. But it’s kinda fancy though.”
“Well!” I huff. “Drink more! Now does that sound more familiar?”
Vinyl gives me a little salute, before downing her glass in one gulp, before making an exaggerated sigh. “Now you try!”
I take the glass, and stare into the black liquid. I take a breath, I’m really going to do this. What a waste of good wine. Well once more unto the breach. I bring it to my lips, and gulp it all down, not without a few horrible bits dribbling over my face. “Woah!” It’s strange how quickly it can hit you.”
“Yea!” Vinyl grabbed the bottle and poured another glass for both of us, this time filling the glass to the brim. I’d talk about how that’s against etiquette, but at least she’s using the bloody glass this time. “Well, heads up!”
“You know, wine shouldn’t be drunk like this.”
“Come on! You know you wanna.” Vinyl necks her second glass. Well she’s got a point. I do want to. Who cares, I’ve got plenty of good wine anyway. I neck my second glass almost instantly, and then another, and then another. But that was the last out of that bottle. So, I went to the cellar to get another bottle. What’s the point of one? I’m not drunk enough.
Five minutes later I was sitting there damning etiquette, and taking a good swig of that bottle. Because who needs glasses? Some stuck up Canterlot scum, that’s who! Not Octavia Melody! I’m open to new ideas. See I’ve got Vinyl! She’ll teach me. “Come on! Let us play some music.” I walk over to the cello, which is sitting in the corner, and start playing something upbeat.
“Yea!” Vinyl yells in appreciation.
This time, I don’t have any worries. Alright, I’m not playing half as well as I was earlier, but it’s all relative. And Vinyl doesn’t seem to mind. She’s just going with it. Oh Celestia, am I actually good? Or is she just humouring me? Can’t be, she’s dancing. I play a waltz, and she dances to it. “Hey come on! Join me?” She calls out. What a good idea. I put the cello on the floor and put on a record, “Best Waltzes of Equestria.”
Vinyl and I dance around the study. There is no need for talk. We simply move around to the will of the music. The only pause is in between songs in which we both take another swig of wine. Fuck common sense, who needs it when one has waltz and wine? The more wine we drink, the closer we come to fucking up. But who cares? If there are any consequences, they’re well worth this.
At the end of the final waltz we both collapse on one of the sofas. “Thank you Vinyl. That was really fun.”
“Hell yea!” She puts a foreleg around me. I don’t really mind if anything I quite like- oh fuck, she’s a lesbo isn’t she? Alright. This isn’t appealing anymore.
“Erm Vinyl. Didn’t you say you were a lesbian?”
“Yea?”
“Does this mean anything to you sexually?”
She takes a moment to think about that. “Oh yea. Sorry about that.” She takes her foreleg off me.
“It’s fine, just, just leave it the way it is. This is quite comforting. But no sex!”
“Sure. Anyway I kinda had a girlfriend for that. And I’m not quite over it. So I don’t think I’m sexually threatening. You should just be worried at how huggable you are.”
“Are you okay?”
Vinyl wrapped herself around me. “Yea I’ll be fine!”
“Do you want to talk about it?”
“She just left me. Just like that. The moment I left Manehattan.”
“Ouch, as if that wasn’t hard enough.”
“I know right?” It feels as if she’s crying. Although I can’t be quite sure. “But she used to be so awesome. She’d just always know what to say. I know it sounds really sappy, but I miss her.”
I take myself out of her grasp, and hug her. “It’s okay.” She’s barely holding in those tears. “It’ll all be okay.” She mumbles something that sounds cynical. “You’ll survive without her. Anyway it can’t have been true love, since she left.”
“I know, but I still miss her. I wonder if she thinks of me?”
“I don’t know.”
“I hope she does.”
“I hope it’ll be okay.”
“Yea!” Vinyl pulls out of the embrace and paces forward, trying her best to stay upright. “I don’t need her anyway.”
“That’s the spirit!”
Vinyl paces the room. “I can do whatever I want! Canterlot is my oyster! And I don’t need no ex girlfriend!”
“Huzzah!”
“Fuck yea! Thank you Octavia.”
“An absolute pleasure Vinyl, you’re great company.” With that Vinyl returns to her seat on the sofa.
“Still… Could you, you know? Carry on hugging?”
“Not a problem.”
Vinyl and I cuddle up together in an embrace. I don’t think there’s anything sexual here. The feeling is just so innocent. We both need a little comfort and support, and a hug does a great deal in providing that. Soon enough, I begin to feel her breathing slow down, into the steady rising and falling of sleep. And soon enough I too am enveloped by the drunken embrace of Vinyl Scratch.
By the time the sky had began to dim, and the sun was making her way under the mountains. I was awaken, rather rudely I might add, by the door of my study opening. “Octavia Melody! I want an explanation now! And it had better be a bloody good one!”
It’s probably one of the rarest events to see Mother in my study. What’s the reason? Is she angry at me being silly with a friend? Honestly I can’t tell why. I’d probably know if I were sober. “An explanation for what mother?”
Mother looks at me, then at Vinyl, and finally at the two bottles of red on my desk. She huffs. “Alright! My primary concern is you having pinched my two top bottles of wine. You know Father and I have that function this evening. So how am I supposed to woo Mr Cash into that contract without an offering of good wine? Surely two bottles is too much!
Also. What on earth are you doing? I didn’t think you’d be a bloody lesbo. I suppose all kids go through a phase of that nonsense.” She mumbles before barking “Father won’t be pleased at that at all.”
“Mother, this isn’t sexual. And how much will that wine cost me?”
Vinyl looks up. “Wu? S’not sexual. S’ just a niice cuddle.” She slurs.
“Erm Vinyl. Really not helping.” I kick her.
“Kay.”
“Anyway Octavia. Obviously you know the rule. You pay for the wine. Then we’ll find a more fitting punishment. And as for you.” She glares at Vinyl. “I shall have to contact your parents as soon as possible.”
“Mother please! I take full responsibility. There’s no need to turn this into a big incident.”
“Oh yes there is! I will be speaking to your father soon. Anyway,” She checks a clock that was hanging on my wall. “I’ll be late. I have to leave early because of you two!”
Mother slams the door, as she leaves the study. I sigh.
“Shit.” I say quietly.
“Yea.”
“I don’t regret that at all though.”
“Really?”
“Well my parents normally leave me alone, and when I do get attention, it’s normally negative.”
“Doesn’t that piss you off at all?”
“It used to.” I wrap myself just a little tighter around Vinyl. “At least I can get some affection.”
“Hey, no problem.”
“See Mother and Father, they don’t really have time for me. They seem to only care about their careers. This isn’t the first time I’ve had exactly the same row. I mean. At least they acknowledge my existence this way.”
“Wow that’s pretty fucked up.”
“Rather.”
“Do you want to talk about it?”
“Not especially. The way I see it, my life is just a depressing sob story. I could rattle on about my problems, how I find school, and how I find my parents. But in all honesty Vinyl. Life is life. I’ve not really done as well as either of my parents would have liked. I’m a musician, not a buisnesspony. I suppose that’s the point they stopped really caring. They wanted an heir, not a daughter. It’s one of the reasons, that they find it a bad idea for me to be a lesbian, so they can marry me off to a bloke by the name of Filthy Rich.” Don’t cry Octavia. This is just a self evident truth, not a problem to cry about. “It will do a great deal to advance the family’s fortune.” Fuck.
“Wow. That’s… Wow.” Vinyl popped out of my forelegs, moved to my side and wrapped herself around me. “Not gonna lie, that sounds awful.” I begin to sob. “Just let it all out.”
Why am I crying in the legs of a pony I’ve only met today? Am I really that lonely, that she is my best friend? Really? It would seem so. Not to say I don’t like it. It’s surprisingly nice. Comforting. It actually feels as if someone gives a fuck.
However, I can’t shake the fear, or the disappointment. I’ve been unable to find friends until now. It has taken Vinyl, what? A week? To find one. If she keeps at this pace, she’ll have no need for me. I should accept my fate and be damned. Enjoy good things while they last.
About five minutes later, I pull away from the embrace. “What do you fancy for dinner?” I offer. “We could go out, or stay here. I don’t really know.”
“I dunno, can you cook?”
“Not at all, you?”
“Nope.”
“Alright then, we’ll find somewhere to eat out. Or should we order in, I don’t know.”
“I say we order pizza.”
“Eh, not normally my choice, but go on then.”
“Well if you have a problem with it?”
“No, not at all.”
“Are you sure, I’m not offended. It’s just if you don’t like pizza.”
“No! It was only a remark about how pizza- forget it. Do you know anywhere good for pizza?” I brush away one of the tears and start to chuckle.
“Urmmm…” Vinyl took a moment to think. “I don’t actually know anywhere good for food.”
“Okay.” I sigh, and walk towards my desk, pulling out a drawer and a book labeled ‘Rainbow Pages’. “Lets see.” I sifted through the book in search of pizza…
*******
Half an hour later, we had ordered. Another half an hour later, our meal had arrived. Another half hour after that, we had eaten. All in all it had been a good evening, bar the interruption. A final half hour later Vinyl had left. Not a bad day really. Probably one of the best I’ve had in a long time.
Now Vinyl’s left I think I’m probably sober enough to play. I begin to play a tune, a quaint jolly little piece, sadly however it vanishes instantly after being played. I enjoy these few moments, like a calm before the storm. My parents are going to return, and it’s not going to be nice.
*******
Yup, just as I thought. Father storms in, with frowns. And I was in the middle of a piece, they could have had at least the courtesy to let me finish. Oh well, no use crying over lost concertos. “Yes, what is it?”
“You know very well what it is Octavia!” Barks Father.
“Did you secure the contract?”
“Well that’s not the-”
“I congratulate you Father, and I apologise for your inconvenience.”
“Now listen here! Your mother has been telling me that you’ve been hanging around with that girl, in a way that I’d not approve of! Look Octavia, don’t you want what’s best for the family? You know you’d make a great couple with Filthy Rich, the son of Mighty Rich. With a marriage like that, we’ll be lifted into a permanent place in the Canterlot Aristocracy.”
“I understand Father. I apologise, what I did there was nothing but drunken folley.”
“Good.” Father looks as if he’s showing genuine concern. “It will advance our social standing.” He repeats.
“Of course Father.” No need to fight, that would just end in bullshit like it always does.
“Excellent. And don’t steal our wine!” He pointed his hoof at me, giving a wink. “When it comes to friends, just make sure to only take the medium level stuff. Unless it’s a special occasion. What I’m trying to say is, you should ask alright?”
“Of course.”
“Alright. That’s my girl. Have you eaten?” I nod. “Alright, we’ll be off then.” Just as Father is about to leave, he turns back. “Oh, and don’t expect that you’ll be getting off lightly. What was the name of the filly you were with? I shall call her parents. I’m not letting my daugher be subject to such a bad influence.” Oh Celestia, that’s going to limit things.
“She’s called Vinyl Scratch, and if I may protest-”
“No! You understand darling, I have to draw a line in the sand.”
I think I was the bad influence on her if anything. “Of course Father.” No use protesting.
“Alright then. Goodnight Sweetie.”
“Goodnight Father.”
And that’s that. It’s actually quite typical of Father. I rarely see him, but when I do, he gives me a bollocking in that kind of way. He doesn’t shout, he just points out my flaws and fucks off. This time it happens to be arbitrarily. Others he’s got a point.
Still. What now? Vinyl is most probably banned from this place. If her stepfather is one of The Guard, it’s likely that I’ll not be able to visit her. Urgh. It makes my head hurt thinking about it. I’m sure we’ll be able to arrange something tomorrow. As for now. I’m tired. I know it’s not late. But fun does take away energy.
Morning comes like a bright warm beautiful slap in the face. The alarm clock rings like the prick that it is, until I twat the fucker into shutting up. I suppose my parents have already buggered off. If I ever do catch them in the mornings, it’s never for more than five minutes.
About half an hour later, I’m all prepared for school, as I walk over, I think on how easily I’d be able to get away with not going. Would anyone even notice? Would they even care? It’s a thought I get nearly every day. But today I feel motivated. I’ll see Vinyl today. It’s going to be a good day.
I walk into registration. Huh, I’m only ten minutes late, not bad, not bad at all. Of course Mr Redhart doesn’t think so,but he doesn’t protest. I won that battle a long time ago.
After reg comes the monotony of school life. Today doesn’t seem bad though. I’ve only got three lessons, all of which are at the start; double history to begin with, and then a music lesson.
I can’t say I enjoy either of the history lessons. Not to say I don’t like the subject. On the contrary. It’s a favourite of mine. However, studying in great detail the great peace that followed the banishment of Nightmare Moon leaves for dull reading. I get it Celestia was great. There was peace. Not much changed. On the bright side at least, the exam is a piece of piss.
Now music, that was more interesting. Mr Haymond Smallville, a lovely stallion teaches there. The graying unicorn does his best to encourage all types of music, but he’s incredibly fond of that awful racket they’re calling punk. In a genuine way though, not in a wannabe hit with the kids way. Or it could be both, I can’t tell. All the same, he encourages my tastes in classical. Still, Haymond isn’t the main attraction of the class today. I take my seat next to Vinyl.
Once he is satisfied that everyone has taken their places Haymond calls the register. “Ah morning Class. How are you all today?” A few conversational mumbles came his way.
“I’m alright Sir, how are you doing?”
Haymond smiled. “Ah doing alright.”
“How’s the missus?” Someone else called.
“Which one?”
“Sir!” The class called in unison.
“Alright, alright. Stupid little pricks, not letting me have my fun. Make it so my ponysona only gets one wife!” He said in mock annoyance. “Why can’t I be the sexy stallion, with the big house, and all the mares, huh?”
Vinyl nudges me on the shoulder, “Is this normal? I’ve only met him one on to one.”
“That’s just Haymond,” I say, “You learn to appreciate him.”
After about ten minutes more of this banter, Haymond looks towards the class. “Alright. Sadly, because of mock exams we don’t have the music hall available. So we can’t do any practicing today. So try to fit in as many hours of your free time as possible, like you Octavia. She’s bloody brilliant like that.” He then turned towards Vinyl. “Ah, good choice there Vinyl. May I call you Vinyl?”
“Sure.”
“Well Vinyl, Octavia’s not into your electronic stuff. But she’s a goodun. Glad you’ve been able to find friends. Anyway, have you decided on what instrument you’d like to play for the examination?”
“Urmm… Keyboard? I dunno yet.”
“Don’t worry Vinyl, take your time. Life is a dick sometimes. Gutted that they don’t count turntable as an instrument.”
“I know right? What’s wrong with keeping the rest of the band in check?”
“Oi. Don’t ask me! I don’t make the policy. I know it’s a lot of pressure, and not having your band really does screw you. But you’ve got a good three months yet. Maybe you could even do a duet with Octavia over there. You seem to be getting on alright.” As entertaining as I find Vinyl Scratch, I think we can both agree that’s a terrible idea. “Right, yes.Class.” He says as if he’s just remembered his job “So who would like to show me their piece first? Oh come on. Don’t be shy. I won’t be a dick about criticising your work… Honest!”
Eventually a stallion in the back took the opportunity. His name was Lancer I believe, a sporty stallion and one of the best baritones in Canterlot. “If you don’t mind Sir. I’d like to sing The Large Sospan. It’s an old folk song from the land of my father, Sir.”
We all clap at the end of the performance. He deserved it too.
For the rest of the lesson a few more kids take their turns performing. It’s quite relaxing actually. Some of the performances aren’t half bad either. Not to say that all of them are good, but by the end of the class I’m in a far better mood.
Vinyl and I walk down the corridors to check, in a futile attempt, to see if the music hall is open. It isn’t, of course. I wish I could leave now, but they notice if you go anytime before dinner. Sadly there’s an afternoon registration, and I’ve been copped one too many times to get away with it. “So Vinyl, what’s the plan for this evening?”
“Urmmm…”
“I suppose you want to do something.”
“Sure but I dunno what. Mom got a call from your Dad. Mom just thought your Dad was being a dick, honestly. But my step dad tells me I can’t go to your house and piss everyone off.”
“Well may I go to yours?”
“Well, it might be possible. But my stepdad is a kinda dick, so prolly not. Unless we’re super duper quiet.”
“I suppose I could say the same, just as long as you keep hidden.”
“Yea.”
“Anyway, no drinking this evening, that’s for sure.”
“Awwwwww!”
“Vinyl honestly, with that attitude you’ll make me an alcoholic yet.”
“So what do we do now?”
I sigh, “I suppose common room it is.”
*******
When we arrive, the common room is stifling. The rancid stench of bitchy conversations fills the air like a cloud of social death. As we enter all eyes are on us, “Excellent that you’ve found a new friend in Octavia isn’t it Vinyl?” Asked a particularly nasty mare by the name of Golden Tiara, “What do you think of her then Octavia? Must be something special if you’re interested. Makes sense that you’d swing that way,” There were a few sniggers from the class. A couple of years ago I’d have retaliated, but doing so would make her win, quite honestly.
“Hey, got a problem with that?!” Vinyl challenged.
“Oh, so she does swing that way.”
I don’t. I really don’t.
“Well I do. She doesn’t. So what’s the problem?”
“What’s the problem with you? I don’t want a mare looking at me that way. It’s just gross.”
“Honey. I’d not look at you that way, bigots ain't my type.” Wit wins the day I suppose, at least for now. Vinyl and I take a seat in the corner.
“Huh, I guess we never did make a plan for later did we?” Vinyl mused.
“Honestly I’m just glad that you take the fact we’ll be spending time with this evening as self evident.”
“Well sure thing Octavia. What else am I supposed to do?”
“Well there are countless other ponies you could be spending time with.”
“Well none of them are you.”
“No need to fuel the fires of Golden Tiara’s suspicions is there?”
“Huh? Oh right, no.”
I chuckle at that. “Or to be cringy. I’ve only just met you. Did you say things like that with your ex?”
“Um... Yea.”
To that I chuckle, till I see that Vinyl looks uncomfortable, “Oh come on Vinyl. I didn’t mean any malice.”
“Sorry.”
“Soft spot?”
“Yea.”
“Again sorry.”
“No problem. So what are we doing this evening?”
“Well it is summer. And natural beauty is something that Canterlot has in far more abundance than Manehattan. We could go for a walk?”
“Sounds okay,” Vinyl said halfheartedly.
“You sound troubled, what is it?”
“Err...”
“Are you missing Manehattan?”
“Yea.”
“I’m sorry Vinyl.”
“Don’t be sorry. It’s not your fault. I just get here, and the first friend I get I get restrictions on. I hate my mom sometimes. Why did she have to fall in love with that dick?”
“I can’t claim to understand your problems Vinyl. But listen here. I don’t care what Father says. You’re the only friend I have, and I’d care to keep it like that.”
“Thanks Octavia.”
“So how about that walk?”
“Sure, it’ll be nice to get some clear air I guess.”
“Fantastic.”
Vinyl gives me a thin, but genuine smile.
*******
Vinyl huffed, “I don’t... get it, why... do ponies... walk... on mountains?”
“Honestly Vinyl, I don’t see the problem. Anyway it will do you good. And if that isn’t convincing, isn’t the view?”
Vinyl pants, “If… I… had… the… energy…”
“Okay, we’ll take a break.”
“Phew.”
Vinyl and I take a seat under a tree overlooking the city, “Now you can’t not admire that,” It seemed as if the entire Kingdom could be seen from this spot, “Isn’t that just gorgeous?”
Even Vinyl seemed amazed, not that she admitted it, “Eh, not bad I guess.”
“Oh please. What’s Manehattan got on that?”
“Well we’ve got the sea.”
“Yes, but it’s a great big ugly grey city”
“Correction. My great big ugly gray city.”
“Fair enough.”
A few moments passed in silence as we admired the landscape, “But I see your point.”
“What? Oh yes,” A few more moments passed, “I like to sit here and wonder what ponies are doing. Watching Canterlot from here... Even Celestia and Luna look like ants from this height.”
“Yea, it’s pretty cool.”
“Although I don’t think it really matters. Up here, everything just seems so, insignificant really.”
“And you’re the one callin’ me cheesy?”
“Oh? Oh sorry. I was getting rather caught up in the scenery.”
“No problem.”
A comfortable silence passed as we simply sat there, looking at the view, “One would have thought that after knowing the landscape for so long, one would get used to it. But one never does.”
“Yea.”
“Vinyl, may I ask you something?” She nodded, “Why do you wear those ghastly sunglasses?”
“They look cool I guess.”
“Even yesterday though, when were were cuddling. You had them on.”
“So? What’s the big deal.”
“Just spikes curiosity. Honestly I don’t know why I didn’t ask sooner. Do you need them?”
“Kinda, my eyes ain’t the best. So I got these instead of some awful dorky glasses. And I guess it stuck,” She took them off revealing purple eyes, not dissimilar to mine, “I can hardly see like this.”
“You look better without them.”
“Thanks.”
“How much can you see?”
Vinyl turned towards the landscape, “I can see the outline of the mountains and sky, but that’s about it. I can also see the sun.”
“Hrmmm. I suppose we’ve missed our chance to get to the peak before the sunset.”
“Does it matter?”
“Not at all,” I take a step closer to Vinyl, “Are you short or long sighted?”
“Short.”
“Okay, lets do a test.Tell me when you can see me,” I move my face in, to a point where we’re nearly touching.
“Octavia, I really don’t know if you’re that innocent, or if you’re tryna flirt with me right now,” Said Vinyl rather angrily.
“I’m just doing the thing that everyone does to ponies with glasses. Getting on your nerves.”
“Well have you heard about a thing called personal space?”
“Sorry,” I moved away slightly, “Did I cause offense?”
“Nah.”
“Are you okay?”
Vinyl put her glasses back on, “Octavia. I won’t be okay for some time. I really appreciate what you’re doin’, and I feel really welcome in Canterlot. But I’m just a lil’ homesick.”
I put a comforting hoof on her shoulder, “Have you written them?”
“Yea.”
“Has there been any response?”
“No. It’s probably just that mail takes forever to arrive. But I can’t help but shake the feeling that they’re not gonna reply. Or that they will, but slowly they’ll just forget.”
“I’m sure they won’t. How could they forget somepony like you?”
“Heh,” Vinyl let out a small chuckle.
“I’m serious.”
“Thanks Tavi.”
“Tavi?”
“Yea. Do you like it?”
“If I say yes, you’ll use it, and if I say otherwise you’ll use it. So in all honesty I may as well just get used to the name.”
“Alright. Tavi you are.”
“You know, most people call me Octy for short.”
“I prefer Tavi.”
“Alright. A name’s a name. And that can be your special name for me.”
“Well Tavi, I’m really grateful for your company, but you’re kinda making me feel homesick. It was easier when I had no friends.”
“Oh?”
“Yea. I don’t know how to describe it. It doesn’t really make much sense does it?”
“Well I wouldn’t know Vinyl. I’ve never had to go through that. So I would have no idea, and I won’t pretend to do so.”
We took another few minutes to stare at the scenery. By this point the sun is only just atop the distant mountain range, its beams are beginning to change from the once bright yellow into a beautiful sunset orange.
“Tavi?”
“Yes?”
“Can I have a hug?”
“Why of course,” I wrap myself around the lonely pony, “Is that better?” She says nothing, only nods, “Regardless of your friends in Manehattan you’ve got me, right?”
Vinyl mumbles something that sounds somewhat like a “Yes.”
“And I know I mean a fair bit less to you than they do. However, I probably mean as much to you as it is possible to do so after having known you for all of two days.”
Vinyl chuckled, “I guess that’s true.”
“So at this rate, we’ll be the best of friends within a week!”
“Yea!” Vinyl sounded slightly more enthusiastic.
“Splendid!”
As the sun melts into the mountains, the sky bursts into figurative flames. What is not burning has lost its azure colour and is at various stages of purple. Vinyl and I sit entwined in each other, in awe of the twilight sky, “Gorgeous,” I mumble.
“Yea,” Says Vinyl.
Day turns into night as the mountains become harder and harder to define, only outlined by the lack of stars and the glistening moon. It might be, it probably is actually, a bit late. Not that my parents would worry. Going up for these walks isn’t uncommon. I just hope Vinyl doesn’t get into shit from this, “Vinyl?”
“Yea?”
“Do your parents expect you home at any point?”
“Prolly. But Mom would be cool if I was late. Stepdad? Eh, I’m sure as long as he got into no more trouble it’d be fine. That’s all he’s worried about.”
“Splendid,” Vinyl leans into me slightly.
“If you don’t mind though. I’d like to sit here for a lil’ longer.”
“But it’ll get cold,” I mock protested.
“Trust me, this position is pretty warm.”
“Alright, but not too much longer. As much as I enjoy your company, I am rather hungry.”
“Awww!”
“All good things must come to an end Vinyl. But remember; this is Canterlot, experiences like this are repeatable.”
*****
Ten minutes later, Vinyl and I are on our way home.
“Wow. I’ve never seen a night like this before.”
“How do you mean?”
“Well in Manehattan you never get to see all the stars and the moon like this.”
“Never once?”
“Nope. The only time I’ve been away from Manehattan was on a trip to a hotel in Canterlot with school.”
“How was it?”
“Boring.”
“What happened?”
“Well we went to see the Castle. And we looked at how Equestria is run. We didn’t even get to see The Princess. It was really, really boring.”
“Sounds like it. Politics are so dull. I’d not mind if something happened. It’s annoyingly simple really. Celestia rules over, enough said. Nopony objects, and everypony is fine. Why you need to visit this city in order to see her throne escapes me. There are plenty of reasons to visit Canterlot,” I gestured towards the sky, “Like this for example. But I suppose praising Nightmare Moon isn’t going to be popular is it?”
“Well, she was kinda evil.”
“Fair enough. But her night is rather nice.”
“I’m not gonna argue, cos I don’t really care. It all happened a thousand years ago. Who knows if half of it’s even true.”
“Strange. I’ve never thought of it that way. But honestly, why would Celestia lie about that?”
“Dunno. But I remember reading a book about it, and I remember it being pretty convincing.”
“Do you have a copy of that book?”
“Maybe, I’ll have to check. But I think the gist of it was that Celestia used Nightmare Moon as an excuse to get rid of her Sister, who was challenging her for power. So, Luna never changed. It’s just that Celestia killed her, or banished her, or somethin’ and talked about Nightmare Moon. Eventually the ponies believed her. So that just gave her total control.”
“Sounds like a load of conspiracy nonsense, but I’ll have to give the book a read. It might be a laugh.”
“Honestly, I don’t remember much about it, so eh. Nor do I really care. I like the Princess. She seems to be doing a good job.”
“Hear hear. A crime that far in the past is hardly a crime anymore, and she’s more than repented. Anyway, that is all assuming that’s real. Which I can say with some confidence it’s not.”
Vinyl and I chatter on about this and various other meaningless subjects until I head off my way, and she heads off her way.
*****
Upon reaching home I encounter Father, who is sitting on his living room armchair reading a book, “Ah, Octy. How was your evening?”
“Very good Father, I had a lovely walk up the mountain.”
“Splendid. Have you eaten?”
“No.”
“Well then, neither have I. Shall I cook?”
“Alright. Oh, and where’s Mother?”
Father got up and walked towards the kitchen, “She’s attending a party or a function, or some such nonsense. As necessary as such events are, they truly are a bore.”
“Ah. Okay,” Such events aren’t uncommon. It’s rare to go a week without one.
“So how have you been Father?”
“Oh I can’t complain too much. Although I must admit, I’d like a little rest. Oh Octy, would you get a bottle of Château De Cartes? I should be punishing you for nabbing the wine, but bugger it.”
I make my way to the wine cellar and grab a bottle of said wine before returning to the kitchen, “Father, if I may, I’d like to do some practicing,” Father looks a little disappointed at the lack of company, but nods, and I leave.
*****
About twenty minutes later, Father calls me down for our meal. Upon reaching the dining room Father is already sitting at the table, chomping on his salad and sipping his wine, “Good practice?”
“Well, it’s always a good reliever of any stress.”
“What kind of stress?”
“Oh, the usual. School. It’s quite the slog at the moment.”
“Any particular reason?”
“Well you know that my social life is void. That, and the prelude to exam stress isn’t a healthy combination.”
“I am truly sorry Octy.”
“I know you are Father.”
As if taking the thoughts from my head Father says, “Octy darling. I know how much it must have hurt yesterday when I dismissed your friend. Truly, I am sorry for having to do that,” Arguing would be senseless. Father is tolerable in civil conversations, but his word is final. He won’t get angry, but he’ll make sure I regret it, “I really am. When I was about your age, I was as worried as you were. I’d hardly met your mother at the time. It’s the same with you and Master Rich. At- Well- urm- What I’m trying to say is that I don’t want you, on a bisexual phase, jeopardizing your marriage to Master Rich. I’ve spoken to him several times. He seems like a decent pony, and if he’s not don’t hesitate to let me know. It may seem cold and heartless, but I have your best interest in mind here. What you’ll find out is that love grows. I’m sure Master Rich is feeling nervous about marrying you. But this benefits both sides. He’ll get a route into a Canterlot family, and our family will get a good financial investment. More importantly though, I’m sure it’ll result in a good pairing.”
“May I speak freely?”
“Of course.”
I chewed on a piece of salad, “I’m not romantically involved with Vinyl Scratch, nor is that my intent. True we were snuggling on the sofa, but I attribute that to the wine.Also, try to understand I have no other friends. So when I do get the chance I’ll probably latch onto them, more than I would normally. I implore you to let me have a friend like this.”
Father mulls this over for a moment, considering my words seriously, “I’ll have to discuss this with Mother of course,” He says before considering further, “Does she swing that way?”
“I’m not going to deny. She does.”
“Alright. What about you?”
Well do I? It’s wholly possible. Snuggling up to Vinyl isn’t unpleasant. But I’ll bet if I find the right stallion it’d be a whole lot better. I suppose I’ve not had enough experience to really tell. Either way, what’s important is that I’m not into Vinyl, “Honestly Father, I don’t know. I’ve not really had the experience to tell,” Father works with enough liars that it’s impossible to fool him, “But I’ve not thought of Vinyl that way.”
“And you think it’ll stay that way?”
“Probably. Vinyl is all hung up about an ex marefriend in Manehattan. As for me, I don’t aspire to more than a snuggle buddy,”
Father took a few more moments to consider, “Well, if your mother doesn’t object, I can’t see anything wrong with allowing you to keep your friendship. Under a few conditions of course.”
“Of course. What conditions?”
“Firstly, that if you feel at all romantically involved, you let me know. Secondly, that you’ll not act upon any of those instincts if you really have to use your hooves,” I roll my eyes, not something that one likes to hear from one’s dear Father, “And finally, respect the wine cellar. No need to take our two best bottles so easily. Right, feel free to take a nice one once in a while. But two! Of our best!”
“Seems reasonable. But if I am getting romantic feelings, what happens then?”
“Not even I am cruel enough to cut you off completely. I’d rather do it now, to minimise the pain. But if such a scenario were to arise, we’d have to do some damage control. I’m not sure exactly what that entails. But Mother and I will figure this out.”
“May I ask something Father?”
“Go ahead.”
“Why the sudden change of heart?”
“These complaints originate with your mother, not myself. However, I think she has a point. As do you. I think it’s the right of a pony your age to do something stupid. But sometimes, one has to put duty over enjoyment. Honestly Octavia, I am not decided where I fully stand on this issue yet. It’s one I’m going to have to give a lot of thought about. This is why I am allowing you to state your case. When I make decisions, I like them to be informed ones. So unless you’ve something to add, might we turn the discussion to more pleasant matters?”
“But of course. The moon was lovely this evening.”
“I can imagine, it’s been a long time since I’ve had the time for a good nighttime walk. I really should, but work is so tiring. Oh I do so look forward to being able to go down to four and a half days.”
“Oh, when is that?”
“Within the next couple of years, if all goes to plan. If your Mother gets the promotion she’s looking for, we’ll be able to afford it easily. Not that we couldn’t now, but I don’t want to cut back on our standard of living.”
In the unlikely event that I get to see Father, he’s a decent pony. I’d even say I enjoy his company. Granted it boils down to polite conversation about household affairs, but I get the sense that he appreciates his time with me. To speculate, I’d say that he’s regretted spending so little time with me. Eventually we both retire for the night. Father needs his early sleep, and I need to do some homework. All in all, I can’t even call today a shit one.
“Hey!” Vinyl greets me as I make my way into school for the morning, “How’s it going?”
“Actually, rather well.”
“Then why do you look so damn gloomy?”
“Oh, I’m just contemplating something.”
“Oh?”
“Yes, my parents gave me an offer this morning. We’re to have a formal debate at my convenience to decide whether or not I’m allowed to have you as a friend.”
“Awesome!” Vinyl wraps herself around me in a massive hug.
Luckily, she does eventually let me go, “Bloody hell Vinyl, you could have warned me!” I joke, “Anyway, I’m not out of the woods yet.”
“Yea, but it’s a start. Will you want me there?”
“Absofuckinglutely not!” There was a pause, “No offense. I don’t think they’d take kindly to it. When my parents decide on policy, it’s done very formally.”
“It’s cool, I get it.”
“Thanks. I tell you, this is going to take a lot of preparation. Mother is going to be very difficult to sway. Father, on the other hand, seems very much on the fense,” I ponder as we walk into the school building.
Even though the debate is scheduled a few hours after school, I can’t deny my fear. This fear isn’t helped when Vinyl has a lesson first and I don’t. In my attempt to try to write notes, I just scribble triangles all over my page. By the end of the lesson my page has a few words at the top, and a heap of triangles all over the rest of it. Bugger.
I facedesk, causing a few giggles from the room. Right, yes, work room. Typical work room.
“You okay Octavia? Or has all that loving gone to your head?”
“Golden Tiara, please…”
She chuckles at that one, “Well Octavia, I can’t say I blame you. Somepony treats you nice and you’ll do anything for her,” She walks up next to me, and sits down, “You know Octavia you really are a fool. So tell me, what are you up to?”
“I may be a fool, but I know not that folly,” I say determined, “So please, leave me alone.”
“Ohh, feeling sensitive are we?”
“What would get you to bugger off?”
“Oh nothing, I just enjoy toying with you. Cruel I know, but it gets me through the day.”
“Why?”
“It’s fun. I mean no malice in it, but you’re fun to annoy.”
“So you don’t really hate me?”
“Why of course not! Why would I hate something so pathetic? Octavia, if you want my hate, you have to earn it.”
With that she buggers off. Huh. For some reason that puts me in a calmer mood. I feel now as if it’s not so important. With that, I am able to relax and actually get a few reasons down. Before long I think I’ve got a good case, and I start on some actual work, work.
By lunchtime I am much calmer and much happier. I lie down on the stage in the music hall, slowly chewing a sandwich and contemplating the day. Sure enough, I am eventually joined by Vinyl, “Hey.”
“Hello.”
“What’cha doin’?”
“I have no idea,” I stand up, “What about you?”
“Neither do I, today’s just been a drag.”
“Well I could say the same, but it’s been a productive drag. I’ve got my case for you, and I’ve got me some major work done.”
“Hey, that’s awesome Tavi!”
“I actually feel so much more confident now.”
“So what’s got you so riled up?”
“I don’t know. But if I were to guess, it’s the feeling of unimportance.”
“Wha-? Don’t you think this is important?”
“Well I do, but… Well… Urm… How do I explain this? Thing is… Golden Tiara just said a few things. It just made all my problems seem so... small.”
“She said something helpful?”
“Well, in a sense.”
“I guess she’s got some use to her after all, but I bet it wasn’t intentional.”
“Regardless of the reason, the effect was positive,” I dance my way past the rows of seats, “I just feel really bouncy today. If I’m able to keep this up, that debate should be a piece of piss.”
*****
“Alright Octavia, I believe it’s your turn to do the dishes,” Says Mother. My mood hasn’t held up, but at least Father is giving me a chance to compose myself. I normally hate washing the dishes, but today I welcome it. By the time I’m finished the plates are probably the cleanest they’ll ever be.
When I return to the dining room, Mother and Father haven’t moved. They are sat exactly where they were before, at opposite ends of the table. I take my seat at the middle of the table, before Father begins. “Alright. I assume everyone is ready?” Mother and I both nod. “Okay, let us first remind ourselves of the rules. So no foul language, no interrupting, and of course be respectful. Octavia, would you like to begin?”
“Thank you Father-”
“Oh, may I?” Mother starts. “If I may, I’d just like to ask exactly what we are debating?”
“Please don’t interrupt again Darling. But the exact question that The House is asking is, should Octavia be allowed to befriend, what’s her name?”
“Vinyl Scratch.”
Mother nods. “Pardon.”
“Sorry for that Octavia. Now would you like to begin?”
“Well if I may, I’d like not to begin. I believe it to be better that you should voice your concerns, and I will address them as they arise.”
“Do you have any objection to that?” Father asks Mother.
“No, not at all. Then may I begin?”
“But of course Darling.”
“My primary concern is what I saw on Monday night,” I raise my hoof in objection. Mother looks annoyed but addresses me, “What is it, Octavia?”
“What did you see?”
“I was getting to that. What I saw was you and Vinyl Scratch on the sofa of your study cuddling. It wasn’t something that I’ve seen in any normal friendship, that’s for sure. My concern is that you’ll end up in a homosexual relationship with her, which would jeopardize our chances of advancing the family. If you turn out to be in a homosexual relationship, there’s no way Filthy Rich would marry you. And from what I can gather, Vinyl Scratch is a homosexual. Is that correct?”
“Yes,” I answer.
“Do you have any homosexual tendencies?”
I look towards Mother, and then towards Father, “I don’t know. That’s the honest truth.”
“Alright, so it is very possible that you could end up romantically attached to her?”
“I should doubt it, but it is possible.”
“I rest my case.”
Father turned towards me, “Would you care to address these issues?”
“Of course,” I turn towards Mother, “While it may be true that there is a tiny possibility of a potential romance somewhere along the future; I don’t think it even matters. If I keep this behind closed doors, which I will, it won’t affect my marriage, and I’ll know it’s short term, so there’ll be no harm. I also know that I’m not at least fully homosexual, if I do have any tendency towards that way I’m half queer at worst, and at best I’m not at all. I think you underestimate how much I value my family, Mother.
“My main point however is that I just want a friend. How can it be wrong to show some affection, when drunk mind you, for a friend? You both know that I’m not the most sociable of ponies. So I’d have thought that you’d welcome the fact that I’ve finally been able to make a friend?”
“I don’t know about you Darling, but I think she has a point,” Says Father, “Octavia’s an honest girl. She’ll let us know if anything is going on. I’m sure there won’t be though. I honestly don’t see the problem here. And if one arises, we can always make sure to act upon it,” He turns towards me, “I’m sure even if we had to force you two apart, we could do so gradually and painlessly. So what do you think Darling?”
“I suppose you have a point,” She said hesitantly, “But if this all goes wrong, don’t say I didn’t warn you. And don’t think I won’t be watching either.”
“Oh thank you Mother. I appreciate this a lot.”
“Alright, alright. If that is all, I will head to my study. I’ve a book I’d like to catch up on.”
“Very well,” Says Father, “I think I’ll go for a walk. What you said yesterday sounded rather appealing. Care to keep me company Octavia?”
“No thank you Father, I’ll admit this was a stressful day. I didn’t see the debate as so easy. So I’d like to play a while.”
“Of course. Well if that’s all?” Father looks around at both Mother and myself, “Well then, I shall see you later.”
I walk towards Vinyl, my face stern. She sees me, she seems worried, “What happened?” She asks, “Did you win the debate? Tavi don’t worry, even if you didn’t we can still see each other, right?”
I keep the stern face on for a few more moments, savouring the scene, “Oh no need for all that Vinyl, I won the debate,” I said modestly, “I won.”
“Fantastic Tavi!” Vinyl places her hooves on my shoulders, “That’s awesome!”
“It is, isn’t it? But like you said, we’d have seen each other regardless of what happened. Anyway, what isn’t so awesome is the day ahead of us. So forgive me for not being as enthusiastic as you are. I’ve only one free lesson today, and that is needed for studying. So I’ll see you straight after school?”
“Sure.”
“Splendid,” We walk towards the school, “Oh, and before I forget. Do you fancy doing anything this weekend?”
“Sure, whacha have in mind?”
“Well, if we go down the mountain this time, there’s a lovely river that feeds into the valley. I thought we could go down there. Perhaps if you are willing, we could make it a late night one? Even till early morning? The weather is scheduled to be good, after all.”
“Sounds like fun. I’m sure I can fit it in somewhere.”
“Splendid.”
******
The rest of the week was incredibly enjoyable. Vinyl and I would visit my house every evening. While there wasn’t any wine, we got by. We would chat, dance, play music (well I would, let’s say Vinyl is more tolerant of my music than I am of hers), and just waste the hours away. As Friday evening loomed, we became more and more ecstatic over our plans.
By now we had decided on a full course of action. We would head down to the riverbank with several bottles of wine and/or beer, an assortment of items to make a fire, light snacks, and an old record player. Vinyl argued we should take sleeping bags, but I convinced her otherwise. Unless my predictions about the weather were wrong, we’d not be needing them.
By the end of Friday lunchtime, Vinyl and I sign in and promptly bugger off from school. We make our way to my house, of course nobody is there, so I write a note on the dining room table. I had mentioned this before, but it’s only polite to let your parents know of your absence, assuming they notice in the first place. Beyond that, we collect our things, saddle up, and leave.
As we leave, Vinyl mentions that we should head to her place. I can’t see why not. So we head off over there, “Might I ask why we’re headed this way, Vinyl?”
“Oh trust me, I’ve got somethin’ you’ll love!”
“I do, but I’m curious. What could it possibly be?”
“I aint tellin’. You’ll find out when you do.”
“I’m intrigued Vinyl, but honestly if you hype it up too much it may disappoint.”
“Now that’s a risk I’m willing to take.”
“Alright then, I hope it’s worth it.”
When we reach Vinyl’s house, I am politely asked to wait outside. After a little grumbling I agree, I must admit I’m curious, I wonder what’s inside. But before long my curiosity turns into boredom, and that into a little joy as I hear the door open, “So, what was the surprise?” I ask.
“Check this out! You know that old record player you have? Well let’s just say they don’t call me Vinyl for nothin’,” Vinyl took out plastic bag, which contained about ten, pristine singles. They must have been thirty years old. Early rock and roll type music, not my thing, but I could appreciate the collection.
“Impressive. Truly, didn’t think you’d be into that type of stuff.”
“Oh Moon Yea! It’s history Tavi, you gotta learn it to understand the modern stuff. Plus it’s really bouncy and shit, so I figure it’s good party music, right?”
“Point.”
“So where we going?”
“Just follow me.”
Vinyl and I walk down a hill, which within fifteen minutes takes us towards the castle gates, “Urgh, these things are so ugly,” Says Vinyl.
“I rather like them. Regardless, I imagine they’re useful. Or at least were at some point. What I like about this city is the sense of history, didn’t you say that was important?”
“Yea, but there’s nothing new. I mean, yea I like some of the oldies, but c’mon. I like it because it formed the new stuff,” She pointed towards the walls, “This just seems like old, old and old. Nothing new here. It’s been the same old shit for hundreds of years.”
“Yes, but that’s because the same old shit works Vinyl.”
“Yea, but take Manehattan-”
“They’re not really comparable. Manehattan is just all new, and Canterlot is it’s opposite. They just have entirely different roles, and purposes.”
“Yea, but Manehattan just feels more alive, you know? Just way more active, alive.”
“Are you sure this isn’t just the nostalgia speaking?”
“I dunno, but this place is just old. Feels like a place full of old cronies, and snobs.”
“Well you’d not be wrong, but Canterlot has her charm. I’m sure Manehattan has her own brand of unpleasant too,” Vinyl and I walked through the castle gates.
“Hey, don’t those shut at night?”
“Nah, they’re always open unless there’s a threat, which is never. Not that it really matters anyway. So unless some olden times monster screws us over, we’re fine. And in that unlikely event, we’ll probably get missed anyway.”
“Okay, so as I was saying… What were we even talking about?”
“I have no idea, Manehattan or something.”
“Oh yea… Manehattan is new, and Canterlot old. I like the new.”
“Well, each to their own, Vinyl. I believe it’s just where we’re born. I enjoy Canterlot because I’m used to it. The fast paced lifestyle of Manehattan sounds to me like a kind of hell. I like the tranquility of Canterlot, that and I couldn’t live anywhere without a starry night.”
“I’ll give you that, Canterlot does have some real pretty nights.”
“See! Better than what you’d get in Manehattan.”
“Yea, but there’s no excitement here.”
“Hey!” I say in mock annoyance, “What about me!”
“You know what I mean. It just doesn’t feel exciting, save a few key elements.”
I smile, “I can tell you one thing, Vinyl, you’re probably the most exciting thing that I’ve experienced from Manehattan.”
“Yea, but I’m the only thing you’ve experienced from Manehattan.”
“Doesn’t stop the truth in my words, does it?”
“Thanks.”
“Pleasure.”
Content that there was no need to talk, we continue our walk in a comfortable silence. I take the time to admire the scenery. The trees offered small shade, as we made our way down the winding roads around Canterlot.
“Hey Tavi?”
“Yes?”
“Do you know where you’re going?”
“Yes, but I’m not taking the fastest route.”
“Why?! Celestia, Tavi! Why?!”
“Because it’s nice.”
“But we could be there by now!”
“Vinyl, not everything is about speed. One can also enjoy the journey.”
“Don’t come up with that hippie crap, Tavi. You can enjoy being there more than getting there.”
“Well in Manehattan, all you had to enjoy was a subway or some such nonsense, but don’t you admire the scenery?”
“Yea, but I’m tired!” She groaned.
“Fine! We’ll head the fastest route, this way.”
I change direction, and make my way towards a forest, at first Vinyl is confused but she is placated when we reach a new footpath, “This is the fastest path.”
“Awesome.”
“But don’t you see my point? The last one had lots more, loads more trees, a gorgeous light.”
“Look Tavi it’s all new to me, so this is still pretty impressive.”
“Makes sense I suppose, it is rather nice.”
*****
“We’re nearly there now.”
“Awesome.”
The thick layers of brambles and other bushes slowly part, until there are nothing but a few great oaks between us and the riverbank. The riverbank is a small but wonderful patch of grass that is rarely visited due to how hard it is to get there. Flowing beside it the river lazily runs her way downhill, acting as a backdrop to the beautiful mountain landscape, just wide and deep enough to swim comfortably, but not too large as to be ugly.
“So what do you think?”
“Pretty cool Tavi.”
“Have you seen anything remotely like this before?” I plant myself under the oak closest to the river, and drop my saddle bags.
“Nope. I’m impressed.”
“Good.”
“But why do you constantly try to impress me Tavi?”
“Canterlot patriotism I suppose, that and I do like this place,” I let out a yawn, “I don’t know, isn’t that what friends do?”
“I guess,” Vinyl plonks herself next to me and yawns with me.
“Good. But sorry, I’m rather tired now.”
The lazy afternoon sun warms the summer air as Vinyl and I doze off under the tree. I wake up every so often to see the shade has moved slightly further, and that Vinyl is blissfully asleep. The next time I wake up is to the sound of a splash, and a shriek, “COLD SO COLD!” Urgh, I did forget to warn her, didn’t I? I take a second to compose myself before standing up and walking towards the river. Vinyl is huddled in a ball on the grass shivering.
“Oh yes, I should have warned you about that. Are you okay?”
“A little cold perhaps, but the sun will warm you I’m sure,” I walk towards the river, remove my bowtie, fold it, place it somewhere convenient.
“Could you make sure that’s safe for me please?”
“Tavi, why do you wear a bowtie?”
“Well they’re c- nevermind. I just like formal attire.”
I slide into the water like a ship being launched. I must say, Vinyl is quite the wimp when it comes to cold, I just find it refreshing, “See? Not too bad.”
Vinyl mumbles some insult from her perch, how adorable. I swim my way back and forth a few times, before climbing up back on the grass and shaking all of the water off, “You’re still shivering?” I sit down next to her, and she leans on me. I place a hoof around her, and embrace her.
“Thanks,” She mumbles.
“You are funny sometimes Vinyl,” We sit there for a moment, before I pull away, “We should make a fire!”
Vinyl grumbles a little, but doesn’t resist or move as I head towards the saddle bags. I had in them a few old newspapers and some kindling. Larger logs should be easy to find here, although they might be a bit harder to break considering I forgot an axe. I grab both bags and bring them up to Vinyl.
By now the sun is clearly casting shadows on the land, but the place by the river will be the last to fall to the shadows. Without words I prepare the fire, it’s something I’ve done countless times before. Find rocks, make circle, place kindling and paper, light fire. Boom. Now I need to find larger logs, “Vinyl, would you be a dear and find some logs?”
“Why don’t you do it? I need to warm up.”
“Urgh, do you even know how to maintain a fire?”
“Sure I do.”
“FINE!” I walk into the woods for a short while, to discover a few promising bits of wood. A few cuts and bruises later, I’m able to bring back a considerable pile, only to find that Vinyl let the fire out, “Urgh!” I collapse on the floor.
“Urm, yea… So that happened.”
I pick myself up, “You could at least look like you’re trying to light it. Isn’t that what your horn is for?”
“That’s racist.”
“I don’t care anymore. Just levitate those logs over here.”
She looks genuinely guilty, “Okay,” Her levitation is certainly some shabby shite, but it gets the job done. I light the fire again, and tend to it for about half an hour before it is comfortably burning.
We sit there staring at the fire for a few moments before Vinyl pokes me, “Hey,” I ignore her, “Hey,” Again, “Tavi?”
“What?!”
“Sorry.”
“Apology accepted, sorry for being moody about it.”
“No problem,” We stare into the flames for a few more moments, “Wanna get the booze out?”
“Or the record player?” I smile, “Let’s see if those oldies still hold up.”
“That’s what I’m talking about!”
“Well, stop sitting there and put them on then!”
Vinyl levitated the archaic record player from my saddle bag, and placed it on the floor. She then proceeded to collect her records, “What shall I play?”
“What have we got?”
“Oh yea! This one! Shama Lama Doo Wop,” She says, confused as to how to pronounce it, “That name alone deserves being played.”
“Go for it.”
The music just gets to the chase, an acapella pop song, quintessential of the 1950s. Short, sweet, but a load of fun. Halfway through Vinyl starts to dance, and by the end she offers me a hoof, and who would I be to deny her? She uses her magic to change the side, and we are given another jolly pop song.
Neither of us is much of a dancer, but it’s fun nonetheless, as we prance our way around the riverbank to relics of the fifties. I’ve never truly appreciated that kind of pop music till now, but Vinyl really knows how to set the mood with this stuff. The only slight pauses are when Vinyl has to wind up the archaic record player, which aren’t long anyway since that horn is a bloody wonder. It’s only when I notice it getting dark I begin to tire. I wipe a line of sweat from my brow and continue dancing for one last song before I simply collapse, followed by Vinyl. We stare into the sky, grinning like fillies skipping class for the first time, “That was wonderful Vinyl.”
“Thanks,” Vinyl put on another record. This time the song was at a much slower pace, but it fit the mood beautifully, as we stared into the sky.
“I’m surprised at how good you’re able to set the tone with these songs.”
“Well I’ll admit, I did kinda get to know them for this evening.”
I turn my head towards her, “Really? Just to make this work?”
“Yea.”
“Oh Vinyl.”
“Your smile is all the thanks I need.”
“Well take a thanks as well.”
“Aww Tavi.”
I stand up and curl myself up next to the fire, followed closely by Vinyl. It’s not even that cold, I just love watching the flames, “You’re a really good dancer, you know that?” I say.
“You’re not awful yourself.”
“No need to patronize me.”
“Hey if I was good by your standards, then you must’ve been awesome.”
“Yes, well, let’s agree we were both awful.”
“Alright,” Vinyl floated over a beer, “Want one?”
“No thanks. But put them in the river would you?”
“Why?”
“They’re probably warm.”
Vinyl pops the can open and takes a swig, “Yup. Eww, gross,” She says before taking another swig and dropping the rest of the cans in the water.
“Told you. Could you pass over a moon bar?”
“Sure,” Vinyl throws me one of the chocolates.
“Thanks,” I put another log on the fire and tend to it, “I really love fire.”
“Yea, it’s pretty.”
“I like the whole decay of it. When I look at it, I find it humbling. It was the same a while back with that conversation with Golden Tiara.”
“Oh?”
“Well, it makes it feel as if all my problems will just vanish. It’s why I like looking at eternal views.”
“Eternal views?”
“Like the sky or the sea, things that are just simply above me.”
“I get ya. So you think that it’s just nice not to feel responsible for everything all the time?”
“Pretty much.”
“I can get that. Especially with a hella stress.”
“Oh?”
“Yea one time,” Vinyl swigged her beer, “It was the birthday of my marefriend, well at the time she wasn’t. So we’d all arranged to meet at this tram stop. But nopony showed, cept’ me. Woah, that was stressful. Do you know how hard it is to keep somepony entertained when their supposed friends dump on them like that?”
“Must have been difficult.”
“Damn right it was. See, me, if I make a promise I don’t break it. Friends don’t do that.”
“What was she like?”
“I dunno how to describe her. She was, well,” Vinyl took a sip of her beer, “When you get to know somepony on a really deep level you don’t think of their surface traits. I guess we had the same taste in music. She’s always the party type. She just does whatever she wants.”
“Why didn’t anyone go to her party then?”
“I never said she was good at it. She had her way for pissing off ponies.”
“How?”
Vinyl chuckled, “Well they found her a little weird, you know, not quite sane. Ponies were kinda scared of her. She’d be nice all of a sudden, them bam!” Vinyl thumped her hooves together, “She’d go nuts on ya. Voices in her head, you know.”
“Must’ve been tough dealing with that.”
“Yea, but you got used to it. She found it hard to trust ponies, but once you got it, she was loyal as a dog.”
“Then why did she break up with you?”
“Well, that’s really quite heartbreaking,” Vinyl took another swig, “She’d built up to it. She denied it at first, but then just accepted it. She felt like I had betrayed her,” Vinyl looked sad. She wasn’t quite crying, but I could see her pain.
“Do you want to stop talking about it?”
“No, no, it’s good to get it out,” There was a pause.
“Could you get me a glass of wine please?”
“Yea, sure,” Vinyl levitated me a glass of wine before taking out another beer.
“So tell me, is that why you miss Manehattan so much?”
“Among other things, but yea, I miss her. The thing is that I just worry, she needs someone to handle her safely, and I’m not sure she’s responsible enough to look after herself.”
“I hope she fares well. Does she have good parents, family?”
“Well I made damn sure my friends will take care of her. She lives with her brother, sweet fellah, I trust he can handle her.”
“I hope so,” I take a sip from my wine, “I really do, truly I am sorry for this whole affair.”
“It’s not your fault.”
“I know, but that doesn’t discount my sympathy does it?”
“Thanks Tavi, you’ve been an awesome friend.”
I smile, “Thank you, Vinyl. I’ve never been called that before, I’ll admit it feels good.”
“Well, it makes me feel good to make you feel good.”
“Good,” Vinyl moves right next to me, “This has been a good day,” I stifle a yawn. By now the sky has lost any remnants of the golden glow of the sun and is lit only by the cold light of the silvery moon. I take another sip of wine.
“Yea, it has,” Vinyl turned to me and smiled, “Not in the way I expected though.”
“Nor me. I rather imagined more party type activities.”
“Yea, well we did kinda have that.”
“True,” My eyes begin to close, and I let out another yawn, “We did do that.”
“Do you wanna sleep?”
“If you wouldn’t mind.”
“Go ahead.”
“Oh, and Vinyl?”
“Yea.”
“May I lean on you?”
“Sure.”
I lean on Vinyl’s shoulder and within a few minutes I’m sound asleep.
Rarely is waking up as much of a treat as it is this morning. It is truly wonderful to be woken up, not by a clock or at any specific time, but by the natural rising of the sun. Vinyl and I sit huddled up next to the last remaining embers of the fire. I’m far too comfortable to try to escape the tangled mess that our bodies have become, and it would seem as if that’s also true with Vinyl, who lies there asleep with a great big smile on those chops. I smile too, there’s nothing I’d rather do than be here, right now, with Vinyl. I must have moved a little too quickly though, because Vinyl seems to be awakening, “Hey,” She says, blinking, “Tavi.”
“Hey,” I respond with a smile. We sit there in silence for quite a while. There is no need to really talk under such circumstances, words would probably ruin the moment.
Vinyl is the first to break the silence by informing me of how comfortable I am.
“So are you,” I say.
“Thanks,” Vinyl slides out from under me and stands up, “But as comfy as you are, I’m hungry.”
Bugger.
We forgot didn’t we?
Bugger. I may have had a few snacks lying about, but nothing big enough to constitute a meal, “I’m not sure we have anything.”
“Ah shit.”
“Check the bag.”
Inside, Vinyl finds a single chocolate bar and looks towards me. I nod, gesturing that she could have the whole thing. I then stand up and walk towards the water, taking a moment to stare down into the crystal reflection. I take a look back at Vinyl, who seems to be picking out a record to play, before sitting down, and making the most of the morning sun. Sweet classical melodies fill the air as I splash water all over my face, the cold jolts me into alertness. I take a few moments to stretch before sliding into the water. The cold is incredibly relaxing as I doggy paddle my way around the pool, letting the water to do most of the work, and allowing myself to take in the rising sun passing through the trees.
“You know, you almost make that water look appealing.”
“That’s because it is, my dear Vinyl.”
Vinyl stares down at me from her perch on the riverbank, “Well...”
“Well what? Hop in.”
“Urm... I know this is a bad idea.”
“Yes it’s cold, but come on!” I wave a hoof at her, gesturing for her to jump in. "Don't wuss out."
“I guess.”
Vinyl jumps in and almost as quickly jumps out. I sigh, and make my way out of the water, placing myself behind her shivering body, “Well, I suppose you’ll have to learn to get used to it.”
Vinyl and I lounge in the sun for a short while, listening to classical music. For once I see the advantage of those dodgy shades, for as the sun makes her way up, it’s me that gets blinded by it, not. I suppose that’s nature’s way of punishing me for enjoying the water.
About an hour and a half later, my hunger gets to me, “Vinyl?”
“Yea?” Vinyl is just basking in the sun, only moving to put on another record.
“Do you think it’s about time to head off? I’m bloody starving.”
She puts a hoof in the air, gesturing for me to wait for a movement in the music to pass before responding with her token, “Sure.”
Within ten minutes, everything is packed and we’re on our way home, “I never saw you as such a classical fan, Vinyl.”
“Yea, well your stuff has it’s moments. I’ll admit I’m not very familiar with the genera, though. It’s something new to try, and so far I’m loving it.”
“Excellent. I’m glad you’re finding it so agreeable.”
“Oh yea! It’s awesome. Great call with this trip, Tavi.”
“Oh, my pleasure, Vinyl. My pleasure.”
“I just really thought the whole thing was gorgeous, you know?”
“Well, I am your host. I’ve got to give Canterlot as good an impression as possible, haven’t I?”
“You never fail to impress me, Tavi.”
“Thanks, Vinyl, the same goes for you.”
“Gee, thanks. I guess I’ve just never been anywhere, so,” She takes a moment to think of the word, “Tranquil, so calm and still. I mean, Manehattan has a beauty to it, but not this kind of beauty. And I really love it.”
I smile and we continue to walk, “Did you have any equivalent in Manehattan?”
“Well, when I felt down I’d go to the docks or stare out at the sea, but that’s it. Sometimes if I got lucky I’d look at the skyline. Relaxing, but not this. This is a whole new world, and the classical really fits it.”
“I suppose that makes sense. I imagine that’s why you’re getting into it now, it’s because the music fits, am I right?”
“Yea, electronic stuff fit with Manehattan a lot better than classical, and that’s why I liked it there. That’s probably why I like classical here.”
“Excellent, you’re starting to see sense, Vinyl.”
“Hey! I’m the one listening to new stuff. Maybe you should listen to some of my music. I still like electronic you know?”
“Alright, fair enough." I concede "I may as well get myself a legitimate reason to be biased.”
“Hey!” Vinyl shouts in mock annoyance.
“I suppose you have the moral high ground on this one, Vinyl.”
“Aww yea!”
Our jolly chatter continues as we make our way up towards the direction of the ominous towers of Canterlot. Vinyl, a typical foreigner to the city, starts complaining about the slope up there, which frankly just causes me to laugh and take the piss out of her.
Finally we come to the point where we are standing outside my house, “You’re welcome to come in for a cup of tea, Vinyl.”
“Eh, thanks but no. I’d rather not piss off your parents.”
“Oh nonsense, you’re welcome in my house.”
“Ehhhh, it doesn’t really seem that way. Anyway, I think I need some me time,” Vinyl kicks the dirt under her hooves and stands rather awkwardly, “This was great and all, but I need a shower and just some time to chill. You know?”
“Of course. Well, I’ll see you?”
“Very soon, Tavi!” Vinyl gives me a wink, “You’ll see me soon.”
I watch for a moment as Vinyl begins to walk away, but just as I am about to turn, she turns around first, “Oh, and Tavi?”
“Yes Vinyl?”
“Urm… I just wanted to say…” She pauses, and looks rather agitated, “I just wanted to say… I… Thanks.”
“Oh, Vinyl please. You do flatter me, there really is no need.”
“Yea…” She trailed off, “So, bye. I guess.”
“Goodbye Vinyl,” I give her a wave, which she returns with a half smile. It’s odd, though. As I watch her walk away, she seems rather frustrated. Did I make a mistake or something? It all seemed to be going well. Did my comment about her cause offense? Oh, I really hope not. If she buggers off, I don’t know what I’ll do. It really is amazing how attached one can get to a pony in so little time. I hope she’s not just being my friend out of guilt or something. No, that’s not the case, is it? Surely snuggling up to somepony isn’t something one does out of guilt? No, no, Tavi. Innocent until proven otherwise. I’m sure Vinyl is a great friend. No, I know she is a great friend!
My worries are interrupted upon my entrance. Father is sitting at the breakfast table, sipping a glass of water and occasionally taking the odd piece of fruit from a bowl, “Ah, Octavia. How was your walk?” He gestured for me to sit down.
“I very much enjoyed it, Father. But if you’ll give me a moment, I forgot to pack any breakfast, so I’m starving.”
“But of course.”
“Where’s Mother?” I ask, as I make my way to the kitchen.
“Oh, some work-based nonsense. I’ve told her that she should never sacrifice her weekends. I ran into that mistake before. I say, what is the point of making money if you don’t have time to enjoy it?”
“Hear, hear,” I agree before walking into the kitchen, “Work be damned.”
I emerge a few minutes later carrying an assortment of fruits and a salad sandwich, “So tell me, what happened?” Father asks as I return.
“Well, we went for a long walk into the mountains. It lead us to the riverbank, you know the one?”
“Probably. Is it the one you discovered when you were little?”
“That’s the one.”
“I remember, it was just after you got your cutie mark. Then you wanted to write some music by the river. Might I add that your compositions at the time were quite awful?”
“No need to remind me, it was all a badly done rip off. But I maintain that the river is certainly worth writing about, Father.”
“I think you should. How did erm whatsername, yes Vinyl find it?”
“She was in awe, never seen anything like it before.”
“Well, that’s to be expected. This is what happens when one is cramped up in the city for their whole life. I cannot abide by cities, I could only stomach a month at Manehattan university before coming back.”
“What was it like there?”
“I’m sure it’s different now, but it was a shithole. There’s simply no time for relaxation, one must always be looking stern and wanting something done. As for the nightlife, it was just too fast-paced, a party at least twice a week. Ghastly affairs. At the time, we were getting that rock music, terrible stuff. And those horribly childish teenagers, oh my. Always drinking and ruining any semblance of peace and quiet. I swear, during my stay there, I was sleep deprived the entire time.”
“So why did you go in the first place?”
“Well, I suppose it was for the excitement. I imagined being in the big city would be a whole lot less boring than Canterlot. I quickly discovered otherwise. I admire you for coming to that conclusion at such a young age, and with so little trouble.”
“Well, I would be interested in seeing it.”
“Oh, of course. As a tourist destination, it’s top notch. We should go for a day trip sometime. Maybe you could bring your friend too.”
“That sounds like a lovely idea for the future, but I’ve already got to get her used to Canterlot, nevermind getting me used Manehattan.”
“Naturally, Canterlot’s far better anyway.”
“I’ll take your word for it.”
“That’s my Octavia. So tell me, what is this Vinyl Scratch like?”
“You seem to really have taken an interest in her.”
“Well, she’s worthy of taking an interest in. I like to know what my daughter is doing, you know. I know I may not show it very much, but you have to understand, Octavia, that I am an awfully busy pony. If I could spend more time with you, I would.”
“Thanks, Father.”
“Pleasure. Now, tell me about Vinyl.”
“She’s just good company. In all honesty, I don’t know what to say about her. She’s very different. A punk, actually. But also very musical, sadly not the kind I’d normally enjoy, and something you’d actively despise. The main point is that she’s really nice, and we get along swimmingly.”
“That’s good. I do suppose opposites attract.”
“Indeed, half of our conversations is the typical Canterlot vs Manehattan banter.”
“I hope you represent our city well? And I dare say our music?”
“Isn’t that what I’ve been doing all morning?”
“That’s my Octavia. Still, I didn’t think that someone like that would be your ideal sense of good company?”
“Father, I’ll be honest, I don’t know what my normal type of company entails. One would have thought that I’d hang around with someone sim-”
“Is there anyone similar to you, though?”
“Vinyl is in all the important ways.”
“Oh?”
“We can both talk shit all day.”
“I’m very happy for you, Octy,” Father smiles a genuine smile, “I don’t think I’ve ever seen you being so social.”
“I’ll admit, I’m quite the recluse. But Vinyl makes me happy.”
“And that makes me happy. I’ve always worried about you, Octavia, you always seemed a bit off. But I respect you enough not to force my help upon you when you tell me to bugger off.”
“Thanks, Father, but I’ve always found comfort in music over anything, and in insignificance.”
“Insignificance?”
“Well, that’s something I’ve only recently discovered, actually. Do you know Golden Tiara?”
“She’s the daughter of one of your mother’s work friends, isn’t she? I believe her mother is Silver Tiara?”
“That’s the one.”
“I will be honest here, Octavia, and confide a little secret,” Father leans in closely, speaking in a soft, quiet tone, “I cannot abide by that pony. When your mother came over here, she was very snooty. But when she effectively become a noble, Silver Tiara changed her tune. I cannot abide by those who don’t tolerate those of other classes. It gives the aristocracy a bad name, and it’s rude taboot,” He begins to trail off, “But I suppose your mother doesn’t mind it. If anything, she probably feels it’s her duty to prove herself to them. If you ask me, that’s just silly. Your mother has nothing to prove,” Pausing as if expecting a response, but receiving none, Father continues, “I think that’s what she wants with you. Hence the whole marrying Filthy Rich. She wants to solidify her position, you are our legacy.”
“And what do you think of the whole thing?”
“I’ll be honest,Octavia. The amount I care is very little, I was born into wealth, and I know that you are unfairly advantaged. As long as you live a good life, then I will consider my role fulfilled. I don’t claim to be the best father, but I consider it my duty to provide for my child.
“Thank you, Father.”
“Anyway, what was I talking about?”
“Golden Tiara.”
“Ah yes, how rude of me. You were talking about insignificance?”
“Well, when I used to feel troubled, I used to think it mattered, I used to see it as important. But at one point, Golden Tiara tried to insult me by undermining my problems. She had a point though, they are sometimes pretty insignificant, and I shouldn’t take the world too seriously.”
“I’d discredit her for insulting you, but I’m glad that that worked out well. I can imagine it’s quite relieving. I can empathise actually; at work it’s always good to know that I’m not solely responsible for every little thing. If I make a mistake, someone else can take the slack.”
“Exactly, feeling important is overrated.”
“It’s nice to a level, though. Don’t you enjoy being valued by Vinyl?”
“But of course.”
“It’s important with the right people. And for some, it’s important full stop. Take your mother. I think it depends upon the pony. With me, it will always be a good sense of security. I feel as if I have achieved that, and I see that you are similar.”
“I agree, and at the moment, I’ve got what I like. So I can’t really complain at all, can I?”
“You can, but if it would be a just complaint or not-”
“You know what I mean.”
To that, Father chuckled, “Of course. I think I was just getting carried away,” Our conversation paused for a moment, “Do you mind washing the dishes, Octavia?”
“Of course not, Father.”
“Good. After that, are you up for that walk? I know it’s a little early, but I think it’s a better idea than the evening.”
“If you wouldn’t mind, Father, I’d rather have a little doze before we go out.”
“Well, of course.”
*****
I regret that decision now. Mother has returned in time for tea, and it looks as if she’s planning on staying. If I should speak frankly, I’m not very fond of her. She means well, and I accept that. But I’ll be honest here and say that she’s not very approving of me doing, well, anything much. I’m sure if I were to go for a walk in her company, she’d spend the time asking cutting questions and judging Vinyl. Talking to Mother feels like a diplomatic mission more than what I imagine mother-daughter conversations are supposed to be like. I can’t say I approve at all. What does Father see in her, anyway? It would seem to me as if she cares more about her career and mine to be honest than any other form of well being. Nevermind, I shan’t complain, but it looks like I’ll be spending tonight with my cello.
And the following night. I just hope when I get to school tomorrow that Vinyl hasn’t taken offense at something. Could it have been the cold water? Maybe. I don’t know. I grab my blanket and hold it tightly, hoping for a good day. How I was able to go without friends, I have no idea, but returning to that is simply terrifying. As I descend into sleep, my thoughts are of Vinyl, and of not fucking up.
I wake up Monday morning feeling like total shit. I really shouldn’t have though; I had a good night’s sleep and everything. I think. I’m not sure exactly when I went to sleep, but I did get to bed at about eleven. Anyway, school, bleugh. Still, at least it’s a Monday, so getting back early won’t be a problem. I wonder how Vinyl is. It’s been such a short time, yet, damn these petty emotions. I tell you, last Monday I’d not have been feeling this at all. Last Monday I would have gone into school, accepted my fate, and promptly buggered off, content with the company of my cello. This Monday, I get all this teen angst about having offended a pony, that, by all rights, I shouldn’t care about. Honestly, I’m seriously debating the worth of this friendship thing.
Now, now, Octavia. I shouldn’t think like that. I’ve had a lot of fun come from this. I’ll probably have a lot more if I play my cards right. Now, all I have to do is get to school and hope that Vinyl isn’t getting cosy with Golden Tiara. Then again, that could be funny. Just imagining a lesbian Golden Tiara. But more depressing. Definitely more depressing. Honestly, I wouldn’t put it past her to do that just to spite me. No, Octavia, use logic. There’s no way she’d do that. I’m not important enough for her to do it. I suppose it doesn’t matter anyway. I’ve had a good week. Golden Tiara would have gotten her laughs, and Vinyl would go around being Vinyl. I’m sure, given some time, I could forget about the whole ordeal and get back into my normal routine. Which, let’s face it, I quite enjoy. C’mon, Octavia, no use overthinking stuff. Let’s appreciate that it’s a bright, sunny day, and enjoy the atmosphere as we walk to school. That’s one thing that I’ll never get bored of.
Upon reaching the school, it doesn’t take me long to find out that Vinyl isn’t with Golden Tiara. Actually, she’s quite excited to see me. We greet each other and enter school. I can’t say the day ends up being very interesting, but it’s not horrible. After all, work does have certain therapeutic qualities to it. But I’m glad when it’s done, and by the fourth lesson, I go quite quickly to the music hall.
This time, I’m the one taken by surprise. As I approach the hall, I am blasted by the sounds of a twangy electric guitar, and some lyrics that I can’t fully comprehend. It sounds like a more modern version of some of those oldies we were listening to by the river. There is occasionally a pause as Vinyl thinks about how to continue. I’m impressed.
“Ta-ta-tav...”
I opened the door and the music instantly stopped. Vinyl blushed as I walked towards the stage, “What is there to be embarrassed about?”
“Oh, nothing. I was just writing a song, and I thought you were a teacher.”
“Oh? May I hear?”
“I’d rather not. It’s not your kinda thing, and I wanna get it just right before I play it to anypony.”
“Suit yourself. I’m just curious, that’s all. Anyway, do you fancy coming over to mine this evening?”
“Sounds fun. Will your folks be there?”
“No, don’t worry about them either. They’re a little harsh, but they’re good ponies. Their reasons for not wanting me to see you were indeed noble.”
“And a little homophobic, if you ask me.”
“Put yourself in their shoes; if a randomer comes over and your daughter is caught snuggling up next to her, you’d be concerned. Especially if you don’t know said randomer.”
“Uh, no. If I was in that situation, I’d be glad that my girl got it on, then disappointed to hear that she never did.”
“Really? That would be your mother’s attitude?”
“Eyyup.”
“Wow, that’s a bit screwed up.”
“Well, the last part is, but feeling pride when your kid does well is a good thing.”
“I suppose so, but shouldn’t matters like that be private?”
“Well, kinda. I guess it’s weird from where you’re standing. Mom has always acted as support for me, though. So I’m pretty open with her.”
“That’s strange.”
“Tavi, what you’ve got goin’ on is strange. Your parents peeking into your business like that.”
“Well, I do have a reputation to uphold. I am to be married at some point. Can’t go round with the reputation of a lesbian.”
“Really?”
“Yes. A pony by the name of Filthy Rich,” Vinyl is just struck speechless by that one. After a few moments, I continue, “I’ve not met him very often, but he seems like a nice chap.”
“What? So you’re telling me that your parents just arranged that whole thing?”
“Why, of course. It advances the family. Can’t have me making rash decisions, can we?”
“So you get married for career reasons?”
“Pretty much, Vinyl. It’s rather important that I get a good marriage if I want to continue the family line. Especially since we’re not very high up at the moment.”
“Tavi, there are things more important than money.”
“Well of course, but I am of the belief that business and pleasure can go hoof in hoof. I won’t complain about it if he’s good, and with time, love can grow out of it.”
“But you get no choice! Isn’t that important?”
“Not really. Not everything is about me, Vinyl. Knowing that I have a small part to play in the history of my family is good enough.”
“If you get too caught up in the whole family thing, you might just forget what’s important.”
This is getting bloody tedious now, I say, “Seriously, Vinyl. What’s more important? What becomes of my family, or me enjoying myself in a silly fling that I’ll end up regretting?”
“Tavi, there’s no point to life if you can’t enjoy it.”
“And I plan to! Just in a different way.”
I think by now Vinyl is getting the point, “Okay, Tavi, whatever you say. But do you wanna get drunk tonight?”
“Absolutely.”
*****
It wasn’t long after school that Vinyl and I are in the same position as we were last week. The records are playing, we occasionally have a bit of a dance, the only difference this time is that the wine isn’t as nice. I really love this atmosphere. It’s good to be able to let go of everything, kick back and have fun. That’s why I like Vinyl, her carefree attitude is a breath of fresh air on an otherwise grey day. Pfft, almost sounds like I’m coming from a romance novel. But seriously, all of this dancing, drinking, and chatting is so much fun. To be able to just talk absolute shit for hours on end, not remember a word of it, and continue for longer is truly a wonderful thing. We can just sit there listening to music, side by side on the sofa without a word. Things like this make life absolutely wonderful. Still, quite drug-like though, isn’t it? Really, can I not get a moment without negative thoughts? Octavia. You’ve had plenty. You’re just feeling a bit skeptical at the moment. You’re seeing this whole thing as quite dangerous, correct? Urgh, correct. Exactly. Anyways, just try to think about it logically. Lying about this sort of thing isn’t what Vinyl would do, is it? Unless she’s a total psychopath, then she’s a genuinely good friend.
“Urgh, wine’s gone,” Says Vinyl, waving the empty bottle around. By this point, she has melted entirely into the sofa. Then again, I’m not really one to talk, am I?
“Urgh!” I grunt angrily in disdain, “I’m not getting another one.”
“But why, Tavi?”
“Too… too, d-runk.”
“Oh, Taaaavi!!!”
“Shudup. I’m not getting it.”
“Urgh! Fine! But I’m not playing the next record.”
“Oh, you bitch.”
Neither of us wants to get off the sofa, so neither of us do. I get a bit nervous, but not the kind I felt earlier. Vinyl is slowly and not so subtly moving towards me. Without words, I just accept fate and allow her to cuddle up to me. I can’t say it’s unpleasant, nor can I say I’m unfamiliar. Just something feels a bit iffy. Maybe it’s just general nerves that I’ve been getting since our last encounter. Or maybe it’s happened before and I’ve been too drunk to remember. Perhaps it could even be the fact that she is cuddling particularly tight this evening. Nevertheless, Vinyl is warm and cosy. I should just stop complaining and let her cuddle me. I just can’t shake that feeling, “Hey, Tavi?”
“What?”
“You’re awesome.”
“Thank you,” All I want is sleep now. We can figure this stuff out later, but right now it’s time for a nice kip.
“No, like, really awesome,” My response isn’t a very graceful one, I simply grunt in acknowledgement that she’s talking to me, “I mean I like you.”
“Likewise, now can we just get to sleep?”
“No, I mean like… Nevermind.”
Urgh, she does fancy me, doesn’t she? Then again, what do I expect from a really good friend who happens to be a lesbian, and happens to be cuddling up to me right now? Actually, it puts me to rest. At least I know why she’s been such an awkward turd all this time. Urgh, but I don’t want to move. Nor do I really want to be her girlfriend. Would ignoring it do the trick? Or is that just accepting it? Alright, perhaps the best trick is just honesty, right?
“Vinyl, I understand you fancy me. I appreciate your frankness, I’m flattered, truly. But I can’t say I’m looking for a partner.”
I can feel Vinyl starting to move away from me.
“I didn’t tell you to stop cuddling… But! This is not a romance!”
I can feel that Vinyl wanted to dispute that. But I don’t think that she can really argue with my request.
“Thank you.”
“Of course. Now, just don’t make this any creepier for me than it already is. The only reason I’m not entirely uncomfortable with this is that I’m a bit drunk… And I’ll admit, it’s quite nice.”
