A Romance fic starring David (human) and vinyl scratch
David has only been in ponyville for about 2 months. He thought he had met everyone, however when twilight introduces him to scratch, he finds himself hopelessly falling for the mare. Things only become harder when scratch asks him if he wants to be a VIP on her latest "gig", and, as things unfold, David learns that things are going to become VERY hard for him and Scratch
Disclaimer: I do not own my little pony friendship is magic or any of the pony's. they are the property of Hasbro
I had only been in Ponyville for about 2 months now, and I loved every second of being here! No more worrying about wars. No more worrying about being bullied. No more unneeded stress. I was happy. However, this happiness would never compare to that of which I would feel when Viny..... I mean "Scratch" came into my life.
It had been a warm nice day in Ponyville and I was lounging around Twilight's library. We had recently been discussing the differences between weather, here in Ponyville, and on Earth. I had been trying to explain scientific formulas and theory's for how clouds are made, and how they move on there own. Twilight simply would shoot me down and prove (at least in her mind) that it was impossible without the help of the pegasus. I didn't care if she thought she was right, because deep down, I was happy. In fact, I have never been more happy in my entire life.
"Hey uhhhh David?" Twilight called out to me.
"Yes Twi?" I answered.
"Well I was just thinking." She paused "I know you want to become acquainted with everypony, and I think there may be one you could get along with quite easily."
"Who would that be Twilight?" I questioned in a lazy voice.
"Well she has some weird stage name but her REAL name is Vinyl Scratch. She's a musician pony."
"Ooooh a stage pony" I said mockingly. Twilight ignored my comment.
"Well, I figured that you enjoy music, so, do you want to meet her?"
"Sure.. Uh when do you want to go?" I asked.
"I was thinking like, right now." Twilight giggled.
I sighed, grabbed my bottle of water and headed out the door behind the purple unicorn.
~---~
"Ugghh!! Twilight! are we almost there?" I complained.
"Almost mister impatient." Twi mocked. "Here we are."
I looked up, and "wow" was the only thing that came to mind. In front of me stood not a house but what looked more like a studio. It had to be the largest "house" I had seen to date." Just one pony lives here?" I questioned.
"Yep." Twi said. She knocked on the door, and within a few seconds the door swung open.
"YO! Twilight. Long time no see, what brings you here?" Scratch said.
"Well I don't know if you have heard about "The human in Equestria" but....." Twilight started.
"Ya I totally knew, isn't it the most rad thing you have EVER heard?".
Twilight remained silent for a moment. Then she simply said "Scratch. Meet my friend David."
I stepped into view. "Hi Vinyl nice to mee-......." I looked at her. She was, was, Perfect. She wore her mane perfectly, a sort of jagged messy style with 2 shades of blue, my favourite colour, and in combination with those shades, WOW! I snapped back into reality. "Sorry I kind of, spaced out there." I said covering up my awkward stare.
"Naw its fine bro, I get that all the time when I'm recording. Why don't you guys come in?" She turned and trotted in.
There was something about her. The way she moved had such attitude, and, grace. The way she talked, and how she looked. Everything! I suddenly felt, strange, I had never felt this way before. It was a very "warm" feeling, and It made me content in every sense of the word.
~---~
I entered scratch's studio, and realised just how amazing it really was inside. I couldn't actually explain why, But when I walked in I just got that "chill" kinda feeling. Like when you go to hang with an old friend. Or like playing guitar at night when nobody else is around.
"wow this place is so chill." I gushed.
Scratch suddenly stopped. "No way! I always thought of it the same way!" Scratch exclaimed, surprised.
I was led to a "living room" area with a chair and a couch. Twilight sat herself down on the chair while I inhabited half of the couch.
"You guys make yourself at home, I'm gonna go fetch us some drinks. Does "Dandelion Wine" sound alright?"
I involuntarily looked at Twilight. For reasons I hate to remember, Twi has been watching my uhhh, "Drinking". You see, when I first arrived in Ponyville, the worst part for me was the drinks. There was water of course, but most juices and stuff had a "grass like flavour", and were very hard to keep down. However at my first "Pinkiepie" party, I tried some dandelion wine. At first the liquid tasted bitter and burned my throat. The strange part was, after I put it down, my palate seemed to beg for more. I decided to take another swig and this time it was much better. The more I drank the better it was, and, long story short, I got a LITTLE carried away, and ever since that day Twi has been keeping a close eye on me when it comes to wine.
I looked at Twi involuntarily. She nodded. "Yes Scratch that would be lovely."
I too was now smiling. Moments passed, and finally scratch came back with the bottle. "Sorry about the wait, couldn't find it." she apologized, pouring me and Twi a glass. Scratch then proceeded and plunked herself down next to me on the couch. She turned to look at me. "So David, how are you enjoying Ponyville?".
"It just keeps getting better and better." I said in a light voice. I then realized what I had just said. "OH! I mean uhh, I keep meeting new ponies and I keep making new friends! Ya.. that's always good!" I said frantically.
Scratch looked at me, and even though I couldn't see her eyes, I knew she was looking at me strange. "Well then.. Your new so why don't I show you around?" Scratch asked, changing the subject.
"I think I will stay here and enjoy my wine." Twi said drowsily. I chuckled, wine really gets to her.
Scratch showed me around the studio, I was interested with what one pony could do with all this space, and to my surprise most rooms were actually filled with uses.
"And finally this is were I rehearse and record." Scratch said proudly.
I peeked my head in."wow.". I admired the big DJ station with all its dials, and records. Then something in the corner caught my eye. "Is that a bass?" I asked.
"Ya, it sure is. Most pony's cant play the bass, and I certainly cant, so I use it as more of... a decoration.".
"Cool. Mind if I try it out?" I asked.
"Sure, do you play?" Scratch asked in wonder.
"A little" I explained plainly before downing the rest of my wine and walking over to the bass, and, give it a strum, let out a small humm
"Wow this is a pretty great sounding bass!". I strummed out a little beat I had made back on earth.
Huh, until now earth never really came into my mind. Anyways I hadn't even noticed that Scratch had jumped up onto her station, and before I knew it she was conjuring up a beat to my bass.
I stopped, and Scratch looked at me "Why did you stop? Keep going, I dig your beat!".
I started again. This time knowing she would be coming in, and before I knew it we were having our own little jam session. Scratch was really into it, putting movements into every beat and drop. At one point I caught myself starring again, at this beautiful white unicorn, that was smiling and rocking out with me. It was then I had no doubt in my mind. It was love.
"Wow, you can really stretch a beat on that bass!" Scratch complimented
My face went a little red. "Aww thanks, Scratch, your were amazing with those drops."
"Maybe we could jam another time. Today was fun." Scratch said coolly. "I'm not doing anything tomorrow."
"Sure, how about tomorrow evening" I said.
Before Scratch could reply I looked up at the clock.
"Oh crap! We've been playing for nearly 40 minuets!" I said rushing out the door towards the living room.
"Please don't be mad, Twi, PLEASE!"
When I reached the living room I saw Twilight curled up on the chair, sleeping soundly. I also noticed the bottle of wine was a little bit more empty now.
I sighed. "Well Scratch, thanks for having us over." I started "But I think I should get Twilight home."
"No its cool. So are we still good for tomorrow evening?"
"Ya, looking forward to it" I said, struggling to pick up the sleeping unicorn.
Now although Twilight was just a little pony, those "Little pony's" are quite heavy, and I struggled to get her out the door. Scratch closed the door and I placed Twi down. "Wake up!" I demanded, splashing a little water on her face.
"W-what?" Twi mumbled. "Where are we?"
"You fell asleep." I explained "Too much wine I recon."
"Oh no! how rude of me." Twilight lowered her head in shame.
"No, no." I comforted her. "We were playing music half the time anyways".
"Oh, OK, I think we should get back to the library, It seems to be pretty late."
I simply nodded and started walking back. I was quiet on the way back, and on several occasions Twi asked me if I was "OK". I kept telling her I was just tired, but this of course was a lie. I was too busy thinking about Scratch.
When we got back to the library I told Twilight that I just wanted to get some sleep, and after a few questions why, she gave up and dismissed me.
Now, you may have noticed that I treat Twi a little bit like she's A parent, or guardian. I only treat her this way seeing as how she lent me a living space in her house with no charge, and she takes care of me. It was very kind of her, and, I don't know where I would be without her.......... Anyway, I headed off to my bedroom, shut the door, opened the window, and snuggled into my blanket. My heart was warm with thoughts of Scratch. I thought for a second, and the possibility that I was getting too ahead of myself popped into my mind. I pushed the thought out of my mind. Tomorrow i will give here a hint at my feelings. Tomorrow.
~---~
"That David character is a bit strange" Scratch said using her magic to move blanket to one side of her bed. "Well who am I to judge a guy's behavior when I don't even know anything about his species. Maybe all humans act that way." Scratch crawled into her bed, shifting around to get to an optimal sleeping position. "I guess I can ask him about it tomorrow." Scratch let out a yawn, then drifted into her dreams.
~--~
"Wake up, sleepyhead. Wake uuuup."
"Errr, *yawn*. why are you waking me up so early David?" Twilight wondered.
"Well I figured we could get an early start on the day!" I explained, happy as could be
"Since when do you "Wana get a early start on the day?"
I thought for a second,"Well you know I couldn't really sleep, (which was a lie) so I figured I would wake you up so we could get started.
"Fine.." Twilight said, defeated. "I was planning on going to the market today, but they wont open for at least another hour."
"Oh" I said sadly, "Well sorry for waking you. Guess I'll just let you wake me up when your ready to go then...."
Twilight didn't answer but instead covered her head with her blanket. I went back to my room and just sat on my bed wondering what Scratch had planned for us this evening.
What seemed like Milena's passed, but finally Twi came into my room.
"Time to wa-.. oh, your already up?" Twi said confused.
"Ya, like I said, cant sleep."
Twilight told me that she was going to the market to look for some old scroll, or something. I honestly didn't care right now, and was more interested in the novelty things some pony's were selling. I saw all sorts of stuff, but I didn't bother buying anything. Twilight found me and told me she was all done, and asked if I wanted to do anything while they were out. At first I was going to say no, but I decided it might kill some time faster, if I were with Pinkie and her, well, "Pinkieness", and decided to set out for her.
~---~
When I did eventually get to Sugarcube corner, I noticed a sign, that had something DJ PON-3 on it, but I didn't bother reading it. I went in and saw MR.Cake Moving some things around.
"Renovating, a little MR.Cake?" I asked
"No- *huff* didn't you hear *puff* the news David?" He said struggling to find his breath
"No, what news."
"Well, we rented the place out for this Thursday." He paused. "There's some music festival going on here, and DJ PON-3, is playing."
"OH! I didn't know that." I said watching MR.C struggling with some crates. "Say, do you need any help?"
"NO! *huff* Its fine. I can manage. If you looking for, *whew*. if your looking for Pinkie, she went out looking for Rainbow Dash." He said, once again struggling to find his breath
"Oh, Ok, thanks." I was just about ready to head out the door when I remembered. "Oh, and say hi to Pound Cake, and Pumpkin Cake for me.". I went out the door
I almost didn't want to find Pinkie now, seeing as she would be with RD, and RD isn't to fond of me. I don't know why, she just gives me the cold shoulder. She will warm up to me, eventually. I know her.
~---~
"Well that was a quick trip." Twi said, levitating a book in front of her. "Get tired of Pinkie already?
"no, I couldn't find Pinkie" I said disappointed
"Well you can help me out, if you want."
"Sure, uh, how?" I questioned
"Well I have been reading this book I found on human's, and this part talks about some mental sickness's. I was wondering if you could tell me what you know."
I sighed loudly. At least now I had something to keep me occupied, and for the next 2 hours we discussed human mental illness. The one we talked about the most was schizophrenia, or, multiple personality disorder. She was strangely interested about it.
After, Twi had asked Spike if he would make us some dinner, he kindly said yes, and went to work. He had made me a surprisingly delicious sandwich. In fact it may have even been the best meal I have had in Ponyville so far. I even gave the little guy a few bits as a "tip". He enjoyed that.
~---~
An hour passed, and eventually I decided to head to Scratch's studio. I didn't say much, just a simple, "Bye spike, tell Twi I went to Scratch's!" and then I headed out the door.
It was strange. Walking to scratch's house. This time didn't seem to take NEARLY as long. I knocked on her door.
"Hey David, good to see you made it.!" She said happily.
"Ya good to see you too Scratch." I paused, as she led me into her studio. "Hey Scratch?"
"Yo?"
"Do you have some sort of performance, Thursday at Sugarcube corner?"
She looked at me for a few seconds. "Man! I cant hide nothing from you!" She exclaimed. "I was supposed to do a showing at Sugarcube corner."
"Supposed to?" I questioned
"Well, ya. I was supposed to, I was even going to invite you to be a VIP, and even be backstage, However I received a new offer I just couldn't refuse." She looked up a little. "I was asked to play at the Techno Pony club in Manehatten!"
"Wow, good for you Scratch!" I then lowered my head in realization. "I guess that means I'm not going with you..."
"NO! of coarse your coming with me!" She used her front hoof to raise my head. "I figured since I already had your VIP pass made up, I thought maybe you would like to come to Manehatten with ME!" She paused for a second. "This way, we can get to know each other a little better." I was about to speak, but she cut me off. "You seemed a little "jittery" around me yesterday. I figured you were nervous. Meeting me for the first time and such."
STUPID! STUPID! STUPID! How could I just rush into this so quickly? Saying I loved, somepony I didn't even know! Well at least this way we can still be friends. hmm. "That way we can get to know each other a little better" The words repeated in my head.
Who says friendships can't turn into something more over time?
Time passes so quickly when I'm around her. It didn't even seem that an hour had went by when I left, but, clocks don`t lie, and as punishment I now find myself walking down the road, alone, in the middle of the night.
It was a calm evening, and I was surprised that it was actually fairly warm tonight. However, noticed one strange thing that seemed to be off. There were clouds. Just, clouds. I thought to myself, "Huh, Rainbow Dash is usually very diligent at keeping the sky's over Ponyville clear." I looked up and thought about it harder, and, soon after, felt as though somepony was watching me. I looked around, there was nopony in sight, only the clouds above. I shrugged it off and hurried back to Twilight's library.
"I hope Twilight isn't mad at me." I whispered under my breath. Twilight was like a mother to me, and she treated me like a son. Then again, I guess I had treated her the same way back home. A couple more minuets passed, and I eventually reached that old, tall, and beautiful tree. I thought about knocking, but felt stupid when I realised how late it really was, so instead I opened the door as silently as possible. A note fluttered down in front of me.
David
I hope your having a good time with Scratch, it's getting really late now, so I'm going to bed. Goodnight David
Twilight Sparkle
I smiled, knowing that she really did care about me.
~--~
The next three day's, to my surprise, passed very quickly. Which was strange because usually when I'm anticipating something, time likes to take forever, but I guess time works differently in Equestria. Maybe it was because I found a new pass time. Well, an old pass time. You see. The day after I visited Scratch, I was meandering around the market, when I noticed something, It was hanging on the wall of and old tent. An old acoustic guitar, similar to the one I used to own when I was in high school.
I asked the pony how much, and he said he wanted 100 bits. I only had 103 or so, but I just couldn't risk loosing the guitar. Now, I find myself locking myself in my room playing. It's Friday right now. Tomorrow Scratch and I will be going to Manehatten.
I unlocked my door, I couldn't sleep, and, with guitar in hand, walked silently to the deck. I looked up to the moon, It was beautiful, and inspiring. I began to strum out the chords, and let the moon take me.
♫ Oh, Celestia
Wake me before
I do something right
I just cant
Stand the thought
Of going back home
If I say those magical words
♫--♫ ♫ And Ohhh Sweet night Take me, into That wonderus place Where I don't, Have to Worry about messing upppp ♫
I quieted down, and began to simply strum a few relaxing chords.
"Its beautiful, David" A regal voice rang out into the night, mixing with my chords.
I turned, "P-Princess" I bowed and took a knee.
"Rise human, I know you know I'm royalty" Luna said walking over and raising my head. "That's a beautiful song" She said, walking over to the railing of the deck. She swung her front legs over and relaxed, looking at her moon. "Who is the lucky mare, that gets to hear it?" She said admiring the atramentous night.
Part of me didn't want to tell her, and part of me wanted to lie, but Luna was royalty, my, no, our princess. "Vinyl Scratch" I said quietly.
"I beg your pardon?" Luna turned, now facing me.
"DJ PON-3"
"Oh. Yes, forgive me." Luna said turning back to the moon. "David, you know, all these years I have searched for love from somepony." She said solemnly lowering her head. "Not love, in adoration. Nor love from fans, just love."
The solemness radiating from her voice could pierce the heart of a Manticore "Luna- I"
"For who could love a mare who brings the end to fun, and brings up the lonely moon."
Luna, was sniffling. "Luna, I think your a beautiful young mare, and, for me, night is my favorite time." Luna looked over, and the expression on her face nearly melted my heart. It was heart break, "The moon brings an elegant glow, a ray of inspiration." I said in a proud voice. "And....." I paused "And anypony that has a problem with you is crazy." She was smiling. "Your beautiful Luna."
I felt as strange, almost as if she was trying to convey me a message, but not directly
"Thank you David. I'm sorry to put a damper on your night." She moved closer to me, now a look a determination in her eyes. The feeling amplified, and I closed my eyes.
"Damper? You have made this night special!" I said, and even though we had connected when I first saw her, she now felt like a total stranger to me.
"I will tell you one thing David." Luna said in a whisper, her breath now on my ear. "I am not your only admirer, in the sky, lies a mare also, looking for love. She will be watching" She said.
"Who? L-Luna? What are you talking about?" I opened my eyes. She was gone, a note soaring down.
Rest well, David. I bless you with deep sleep and good dreams.
I felt a heavy blanket of tiredness fall over me, I tried to stumble back into the house, but collapsed right there on the porch. Deep in dream.
~---~
I awoke, and, to my surprise, it was early. I looked around. I was in my bed, guitar next to me. Strange, I remember falling asleep on the porch, how did I get here? I opened my door. Everypony was still asleep.
"Whatever Princess Luna did last night, sure gave me a great sleep." I said.
"What do you mean, Princess Luna?"
"OH, Twilight! Your awake?" I felt like I had been caught with my hoof in the cookie jar.
"Yes, I got up early to see you off. Now whats with this Luna business?"
"Well, Luna came to see me, last night." I lowered my head. "We just talked, that's all." I was looking around the room "OH, hey! did you bring me into the house last night by chance?" I asked, changing the subject.
"What? You were in your bed when I woke up. Did you fall asleep outside?"
"No it must have been a dream" I lied. A shiver ran down my spine as I thought of how last night when I had fallen asleep, somepony scooped me up and brought me into the house. Creepy.
"Well thanks for seeing me off, and sorry for being home so late." I rushed out the door.
Twilight had said something that sounded like, "Be careful" but I didn't understand fully. Now I was gripping the handle of my old suitcase I brought with me to Ponyville, and focusing on getting to the train station.
I saw Scratch "Hey, David, Lets get going, I don't want to be late!"
"Sorry, had some, uhhh-, weird happenings last night."
"It's cool"
We both rushed onto the train. "Normal cart, Upper, Ah first class" Scratch had said, "I figured since It's a two day trip, we might as well be able to relax."
The cart was amazing, There was a crystal chandelier, dim relaxing mood lighting, and really inviting looking beds. I plopped my suitcase down, and took out my guitar.
"Wow, you never told me you had an acoustic!"
"Well, I picked it up at the market, a while ago." "It was pricey, but totally worth it."
"Can you play any songs?" She asked
My heart stopped. Would this be it? The moment I tell her? no, Too early.
"Naw, not yet, I pretty much just play some chords and such." I broke eye contact, and looked to the floor.
"That's cool, maybe you can pick up some books in Manehatten." Scratch said
"Maybe."
I sat down on the bed and Scratch sat next to me. Her horn glowed a dark blue, and so did her glasses. Then they slowly lifted from her head.
If I didn't know Scratch before, now I truly did, her eyes, they were like pools, I can't describe of what. They were similar to Rainbow Dash's, but somehow completely different. They complimented her in every way. I snapped out of my trance, hoping that I wasn't drooling all over myself.
"Wow!" I exclaimed "Your eyes, I have never seen them before."
"Few do, I always were my shades."
"Why would you hide those they're, they're" I couldn't think of a more appropriate word "They're beautiful" I complimented, loosing myself in her eyes.
Scratch looked away, I could see her blush a little "You, you really think so?"
"Yes" I said, my heart pounding, both at the fact that we we're having a deeper conversation, and that I had just complimented her beauty...
Talking to Scratch had just gone to a new level. It wasn't a crush, it felt like she completed me.
"Why wouldn't you want pony's to see your eyes?"
"I don't know, I guess ever since I was bullied in school, I wore these so pony's wouldn't see me crying. Ever since, they have just become a style."
"Bullied?" I questioned
"It's a long story of heart break and depression, I prefer not to talk about it."
"Well, that's alright, just remember. If you need anypony to talk to, anypony at all. I'm always here."
Scratch leaped up and hugged me, I hugged her back. I never had a feeling like this in my life it felt so right, even though I couldn't fully comprehend the situation. The hug continued, for what seemed like days. I never wanted it to end.
She pulled away.
"Thank you, I think that all my life I needed to hear that"
Was now the time? Just play the song, tell her! No. I have to wait.
~---~
I didn't sleep that night, I don't know why, but I just couldn't. I made my way To the back of the train, guitar in hand. Another silent night, the soft chug of the train only made it even better.
♫ Oh, Celestia,
Wake me before,
I do something right,
I just cant,
Stand the thought,
Of going back home,
If I say those magical words,
♫---♫
Instead of building up, like I had done, before, I quieted down into a softer verse.
♫ And Luna, Dark princess Will always bring the night, So I Can dream Of you.♫
I know Luna was smiling down on me.
What I didn't realize, was the mare that was poking her head outside and listening.
"I wont say who but there was somepony, well, A HUMAN, and he was playing the guitar last night." Said a bratty young mare.
"Ya right. No way the human from Ponyville is here"
"No, no, I SWEAR!! he was so dreamy"
I bit my tongue, knowing that if news got around to Scratch, which I knew it would, I would be ruined. Not only would I have to make up a good excuse why I lied to her, but I would also have to play her the song.
"Well, until you show us your "dreamy human", we believe that your just trying to pull off another one of your crazy stories!"
I was always one for making grand entrances. "Uhh, hi ladies." I said nervously
Everypony's mouth dropped to the ground, and the expression on the one that had told the others was a mixture of, "see I told you so", and "Did you hear everything I said?"
"Ummmm, how long were you listening to me?"
I shut the door as I entered the cabin. "Long enough to know you see me as "dreamy"" I said in a sly voice.
All the pony could mutter was a nervous laugh as her face went bright red, as I sat next to the blue Pegasus. I was nearly knocked back by a potent smell of flowery perfumes.
"Listen." I began "I need all of you to not say a word about me playing guitar. Ok?"
"Why?" the blue Pegasus asked "You have a beautiful voice, and, your really quite talented with that guitar, and" She sped up.
I put a finger to her lips, "Please, just, don't"
She blinked twice at me.
"One condition" She suddenly said, her face brightening "You have to stay here with me and my friends, and introduce yourself."
I looked over to her friends, who still had their mouths open wide in disbelief.
"*sigh" "Alright" I gave in.
I needed something to kill time, and meeting Sky Rose, and her friends, certainly did just that, and I have to admit, being around a bunch of mares that look at you like a celebrity is kinda fun.
~---~
"And that is pretty much my whole story." I finished "I wont bother going into details about what earth is like, that would take forever, but at least now you know me."
"Wow your so cool" Sky Rose said
"Well, on earth I'm not necessarily "cool" but I'm glad you think so Sky" I gave her a smile. "Now if you'll excuse me, I'm going to go visit with my friend"
"will we see you?" Sky asked
"You may." I said giving a smile, and thinking about there expressions if they were to see me at the concert.
~---~
I think I'm starting to build up some courage. After I had spent time with sky and CO, I went back to Scratch, and I complemented how nice her mane looked. It sounded stupid after it came out, but she laughed, smiled, and gave me a small punch with a thanks attached. I only had to be on this train one more night. Maybe I will actually get some sleep tonight. *yawn* that sounds, quite, nice, actually.
~---~
*whistle* "Everypony up! Next stop, Manehatten!"
"nggg" I muttered still half asleep.
"Come on David get u-....." Scratch started to say, but started giggling half way through.
"W-what? Whats wrong?"
Scratch burst out laughing, and I rushed into the bathroom and examined myself.
"*sigh* Really Scratch?" I said, unamused
"heh- no,no, its amazing, really, cool." She said struggling not to laugh.
"my hair get's like this when I get have a rough night, ok?"
"NO, really, your hair is fine"
"Whatever scratch" I gave up, grabbing a comb out of my bag. "So, what exactly are we doing when we get to Manehatten?" I asked
"Well, for the first bit I suppose we can just meander around, and shop. That sound alright?"
I didn't want to disagree, but the whole shopping thing sounded boring.
"Lighten up" She suddenly said "I'm just joking, however Manehatten apparently has a beautiful forest."
"Sounds nice."
"Very, and once we get our bags to the hotel we can explore."
I liked that idea.
~---~
Let me tell you, Manehatten is really cool! I don't even fully know why, I guess it may be because it's like the new york of Equestria, and the streets are packed with hundreds or bright pony's.
"How are we going to find our hotel Scratch?" I asked, curiously
"Well, If you stick close to me, we should have zero problems."
I was leery, at first. Afraid that I would loose Scratch, in the sea of bright pony's, but, then again, what other choice did I have? We took our first steps, and after a little while finally got into the speed of the crowd. After that it was smooth, er, uh, "walking".
We reached our hotel, the lobby was dim, and smelt musty, and I was worried that our room would be the same. I don't think I could stand my allergies if it were. Luckily, however, our apartment was not the same, and, for the second time, I felt as though, I was on some sort of fancy business trip. The room it self was brightly lit with a huge window on the front wall, that over looked all of Manehatten. There was chandeliers, and weird fancy furniture, and, well, everything you would think to be in the penthouse.
"Whats with all this special treatment?"
"It's all covered by my agents, don't worry"
I shrugged and checked out the rooms, and to my surprise there was four, each with a different color and style.
"Hey, which room do you want?" I asked Scratch
"I don't mind, go ahead and pick first"
I didn't feel like being stubborn with her, so I picked the blue room. It was spectacular! For starter's the bed looked as though it could fit 3 of me (Which was a nice change to having my feet hanging over the edge, all the time), I had my own heat controls and lighting controls, and, best of all, a "quiet room" with sound proof walls and one way windows (you know, the ones only you can see through).
"I can actually practice her song." I thought to myself
~---~
"Hey David are you ready to go?" Scratch asked, adjusting her shades on her face
"Ya, sure" I said joyfully. I was happy now that I had a proper bed to sleep in for once, and had gotten a nice nap.
We called the elevator, and walked in. Something was wrong. Scratch was looking down and grinding her small white hoof into the ground lightly.
"What's the matter, Scratch?" I asked in a concerned voice.
"I-" She stuttered "I-", "You- back on the train." She started, now looking at me. "Do you-" I could feel the expression coming from behind her glasses. "I think I-"
*Ding!* the elevator doors opened and 4 young colts jumped in with an annoyed looking mother following behind.
Scratch had regained her posture now, standing tall, a small smile on her face.
"What was she going to tell me?" I thought, "Does she-" "No, no way" I tried my best to just forget about, after all, no use getting my hopes up.
Yet.
~---~
The walk to "Manehatten park" was a much more peaceful one. It was later in the day, and the streets were now alot less "Occupied", leaving just me, Scratch, and some other pony's, in the streets.
"This place is beautiful" I said, looking around
I got no answer.
"Scratch?" I said now looking down at her.
"Oh, I'm sorry David. I'm not really myself right now, please forgive me."
"No need to ask for forgiveness, do you want to talk with me?"
"L-lets just get to the park"
I had done something wrong, had I, maybe? What did I do? Am I creeping her out? Oh no, Maybe I'm talking to much? Not enough? Ughh!
We kept walking until we hit the gate of the "park"
"This is a park?" I asked, eying up the huge tree's in the distance"
"Ya, come on"
I'm really worried about her right now.
We walked for a little down the trail until we hit a dead end with a small park bench.
"Well lets go back" She said, in a gloomy voice
I was about to agree when, something suddenly stopped me.
"no." I said plainly
"W-what?" Scratch said, almost in a scared voice
"follow me" I said hopping the fence with the "NO ENTRY" sign on it.
"I don't know"
I thought of Flutter Shy, I didn't want anything to happen. I guess I should just go back.
WAIT NO! Scratch, is not Flutter Shy! She is the coolest, most awesome pony in all of Equestria!
"Scratch, please. Trust me"
She looked up at me, almost like she was seeing some one she had never known.
"o-ok" She muttered
I helped her over the fence and walked in a linear path so we could find our way back.
"This isn't so different from the Everfree forest" Scratch said
"Yes, except there are no Manticores trying to kill us." I said in a joking manner, taking the moment to look around.
We kept walking through the dense forest. No sound accept the occasional bird chirping. I looked to my left and saw a beautiful tree. It was strange something drew me towards that tree. Maybe it reminded me of Twi.
"Why don't we sit down for a bit" I said, walking over to the tree. "here" I pointed to a more then comfortable spot in front of it.
Scratch went over and made herself comfortable.
"Now I-"Listen I-" " We both started at the same time.
"You first" Scratch said
I got down, on my knee's so I was level with her.
"Scratch, ever since, I first met you" I started, but then suddenly heard rustling above. I looked up.
"What? What do you mean? Scratch asked
"I want to, no, need to tell you" Again rustling in the leaves above, and I felt that same "Being watched" feeling as I did when I was walking home from Scratch's house that one night. "I need to tell you" I took a deep breath "If you need anypony to talk to, anypony at all, I'm always here" I felt my heart fall, and start aching.
Who is this disturbance that is keeping me! WHO!
"I am not your only admirer, in the sky, lies a mare also, looking for love. She is watching" The words echoed in my head.
I feel pity on the one who is doing this, for when I find out, I swear on Celestia's name, I will make you sorry.
"Uhmmm" Scratch said worryingly "Are you ok David? You kinda already said that, and I know you’re there for me." She looked down, "Is everything alright?"
I suddenly snapped out of my anger induced trance, and I felt as though I was being put under the spotlight.
What was I to say? Scratch, I love you? The moment had been destroyed minutes ago.
"It’s just that I worry about you," I said slowly removing her shades "I worry so, so much." Her eyes, were huge, and watery, and the one thing I didn't want to see, was her cry. I took a hand and ran my fingers through her silky mane. She closed her eyes, and I had mimicked. I wrapped my arms around her, and held her in a tight embrace, still enjoying the feel of her mane. Scratch rested her head on my shoulder.
"Please David, don't worry so much."
The feeling of her warm breath and tears sunk into to me, and warmed my vengeful heart. The urge to just say those 3 beautiful words was almost unbearable, as I sat there, comforting her.
~---~
We sat there for quite some time, and I suppose that's the reason it annoys me that I still hadn't gotten a clue why she was so upset in the first place.
"Hey, I have to go meet with an agent about the concert later tonight." She said, adjusting her shades "Is everything going to be cool?"
"Ya, that's fine, probably just play some guitar, and have a nap or something."
Scratch flashed me a light smile and headed through the metal door's of the elevator. *Ding!*
I went into my room, paced around for a bit, then headed into the "quiet room". It was a nice room, painted a peaceful blue, absolute silence, and just the right temperature. I let out a few chords, and hummed.
"Who is constantly interrupting me?" I wondered out loud "Am I just going crazy?" The thought, hit me..... "No, I could actually ‘Feel’ that somepony was watching me, I know it.”
I wandered around in my thought's for a little, and then decided it would be a good idea to get some chow, after all, the only thing I have eaten since we got here was a light salad. I chuckled to myself, and then noticed something.
Scratch's door was open. Now, before you go and get the wrong idea, I was not peeping on her! I just noticed it because, she always closes her door. HAY! She lock's it half the time! I had peeked into the lowly lit room.
Pretty standard, just a normal room for Scratch's standards, except for the book that was laying on her bed.
Scratch never seemed like the type of pony that would read anything else but music, yet, here was this book.
"Was this her diary? Oh, no! I would never, EVER, snoop around in her personal belongings, but..... What if the answer to why she was so depressed was in there?" "I need to know!" I crept into the room. "This is so not right!"
I flipped open the book, and the first couple of page's were just a couple of music note's and random song's. Page 4 was were the "Diary" began. I tried my best not to look at what she wrote, and instead flipped to yesterday's date.
Dear Diary
I don't know anymore. I overheard David in his sleep, and at first I felt terrible, but, well, "Love".... "Mare in the sky". Obviously he found his special somepony. I want to be happy for him, but I can't. I need to get out.
Vinyl Scratch
Those few words, that entry, it gave me hope, no, it filled me with energy!
"S-she loves me?!" I laughed, then it really sunk into me, "She loves me."
~---~
"Today is the day!" Scratch said triumphantly.
"It sure is."
"You excited?"
"You would not believe." I said grinning "You nervous?"
"A little, but I got a good friend with me."
"I'm sure you'll have everypony jumping."
Scratch smiled, "Thanks David."
We headed into the familiar, boring elevator again, and through the lobby doors.
The streets we different, the sun was beginning to go down, but the streets were packed with hyper ponies, of all colors, and, off in the distance, I could see the end of a "mile long" line coming out of the club.
It was quite the walk, and it didn't help that every 30 steps or so a crazy fanboy or fangirl would come screaming up to Scratch, and start asking her a thousand questions, but finally, after surfing through the sea of ponies, we reached it.
"The T.P.C." Scratch said looking up at the large building.
A tough-looking pony stood guard at the door, and I had some problems with him. After Scratch had entered he stuck a hoof out in front of me.
"Heh, uh excuse me, creature, I'm going to have to see if your on the list" He said smugly. Now he may have been the equivalent of a bouncer back on Earth, but to me he was still just a short little pony.
"I'm with Miss Scratch!" I said puffing out my chest and pushing ‘Mr. Tough Pony’ out of the way.
Man, you should have seen the look on his face and everypony around him when I did that! It was priceless. I chuckled to myself as I walked down the hallways of the T.P.C, eventually reaching the backstage area.
Scratch came over to me. "I need to go on stage now," She said "Wish me luck!"
I hoof (or fist...) bumped her, and she went on stage. I could hear the roaring crowd, the hundreds of ponies shouting and stomping there hoof's. It was amazing. Then the crowd died down, and I peeked my head around the corner, and saw Scratch enter on stage. She faced the crowd, and got up on her hind legs, striking a little pose.
"She looks so beautiful." I said out loud
She trotted over to her station and flicked a switch, and a light beat came on. She began to sway to the rhythm, when, all of a sudden, it stopped, the lights cut, and all that could be heard was a faint static.
There was silence.
Then suddenly a heavy bass kicked in along with a Synth, lights were flashing, and everypony was going nuts! I even noticed myself starting to bounce where I was standing.
"I can't take it, I need to get down there." I said, sprinting for the nearest hallway that led to the main floor.
"Hold it!"
Great, another encounter with Mister ‘I eat nails for breakfast’.
"What now?" I complained.
"Where do you think you’re going?" He asked, eyeing me.
"I just want to get in there," I said, my heart beating rapidly from the short sprint and the adrenaline the bass filled me with.
"Fine," He said "But can you do one thing for me?" he said, lowering his voice. I brought my ear close "Can you apologize for pushing me back there? It wasn't very nice." He said with a tone of sadness in his voice.
"Sorry, I guess I got ahead of myself," I said, as apologetically as possible.
"Thanks kid," he said, his gruff voice returning.
I hoof bumped, and he himself escorted me to the floor.
The base had died down, and Scratch was at a more mellow part of her song, so everypony was standing relatively still. I made my way through the crowd, with mixed reactions. Some gave me a strange look, like I was some sort of alien. (Then again, I kinda am.) Others smiled, and some gave me a dirty look.
I finally found a open space, and I could hear the beat starting to kick in again. The drop was coming.
It hit the room like a sack of bricks, and I jumped into the air and started throwing some fists in. At first everypony looked confused at me, then, after a few seconds, I was one with the crowd.
I was having the time of my life, nothing could rui- *Crash!*
I had fallen face first, landing on my hands.
"Watch where you’re going!" Said a bratty voice. "The great and powerful Trixie is trying to enjoy herself!"
I got up and threw a vicious look at her.
"You’re the one that bumped into me! I think you’re the one that should watch where they’re going!" I retorted.
"Do you know who you’re talking to? I am The Great And Powerful Trixie, DJ PON-3's biggest fan!"
I rolled my eyes, "Yeah, and I'm Vinyl Scratch's personal friend!"
The blue unicorn looked at me with confusion "Who's Vinyl Scratch?"
I face palmed, and decided to go backstage again.
"OMG! Was that just David?" Sky said.
"I THINK IT WASSSS!!!!!!" Her friend screamed over the hollering of the crowd.
"Excuse me?" Trixie began, "Who is this David?"
"He's like, DJ PON-3’s Special somepony, and he is amazing at guitar!!!"
"Thanks!" Scratch started "I saw that you got into a little dispute in the crowd. Is everything alright?"
“Yeah, just some weird unicorn," I started, "She calls herself ‘The Great and Powerful Trixie’, and ‘Your biggest fan!’" I said, mocking her voice, "You know her?"
"Can't say I do, however I do a lot of signing and such, so there is a possibility I have seen her."
I nodded and looked down.
"Is something wrong David?"
"No, just got a bad feeling about that Trixie character," I said "Something's not right with her."
"I'm sure it will be fine" She said "Come on, let's get back to the hotel, I'm not doing any signing today, and I’ve got some big plans for you!"
I looked at her strangely "Big plans?"
~---~
"A-are you sure?" I asked
"I saw how pumped you made all those ponies!" she encouraged "Besides, it'll be just like back in Ponyville when we played together!"
I thought about it deeply. "Well, I’ve never actually performed on stage," I paused before continuing, "So I suppose it will be an exciting new experience!" I brightened up, hiding my inner dread.
"YES!" Scratch exclaimed with glee, making me jump back a little, "Ok, here's the sheet music, and some tabs," Scratch explained excitedly as she handed me several pages, "There's no singing as usual, but I gave you your own solo!" She went on and on about what I was about to do.
"Wow, sorry but I’m a little overwhelmed here..."
"Naw, don't worry about it, dude, just practice a bit and you'll be ready for tomorrow,"
"T-the show I'm playing in is tomorrow?" I suddenly felt a deep sinking feeling, "I-I-I gotta go practice!" I said rushing to my room
*SLAM!*
"Did I assign too much..?"
~---~
Man! when Scratch said she gave me my own solo and everything, she really meant my own solo and everything. Apparently I'm supposed to be in the shadows just playing my bass part, then after she quiets down..... well, it seems that ‘all lights will be on me’ both literally and figuratively. For my solo, it doesn't seem too hard, although I modified it a bit.
*Knock* *knock*
"MM-M-mmm-m?" I heard a muffled voice say
I opened to door to my guitar room, and then my door.
"Yes?" I asked in a brightened voice
"Is everything alright?" Scratch asked "It seemed to you that I assigned a bigger role then you could handle."
"More than I can handle?" I said triumphantly, "It's no problem!" I assured as I saw the worry melt away from Scratch's face.
"Oh, thank Celestia!" She let out quite a long sigh, "I assume that you’re cool with the solo?"
"A little nervous, but nothing I can't handle."
"Good, well, I suppose I'll let you keep practicing." Vinyl turned around and left as I closed the door behind her before continuing to practice.
~---~
I know this may sound silly, but I am incredibly hyped for this performance, and not for the reason you might expect. Although it's going to be awesome to play in front of a live audience of hundreds of ponies, tonight is the night that I'm coming clean about EVERYTHING with Scratch! I feel so overjoyed! I went over the scenario at least a hundred times in my head. There is absolutely no way I can mess up now!
"All ready?"
"Oh yeah! Just remember, when you get on stage stand on the stage right. That way nopony will see you."
"Sounds good."
“I won’t bore you with the details of the Techno Pony Club for a second time, so let's just say that I didn't have any problems on the way in this time.
"Ok David, go around and stand at the back, make sure you stand against the back wall, otherwise somepony might see you."
"And the whole surprise would be ruined right?"
"Exactly" she said "Uhh, David?" She said hesitantly.
"Yes?"
"Don't screw up!"
I laughed out loud at her comment, "Thanks for the words of encouragement, it totally fills me with your trust. "
As I made my way around back to stage right I had to avoid being seen by anypony, which would turn out to be difficult, seeing as dead ahead in the narrow hallway was Sky Rose and friends, plus three other ponies I didn’t recognize.. I couldn’t let them see me, or I would either be late, or spoil the whole illusion.
"Celestia guide me," I prayed as I took the most silent steps I could behind a few boxes.
*Crash!*
"DAMMIT!" I cursed under my breath. I saw Sky and her friends jump, and look around confused.
"What the hay was that?"
"I don't know, but it was totally spooky."
"Yeah, I'm out of here."
I saw Sky and her friends trot out.
"Man, that was close!"
I continued on, and finally reached my destination. I snuck over to my position. The cheering was louder than last time, and, I could only assume that there was at least 20% more ponies now.
My heart rate started to elevate as an announcer pony came up on stage.
"Mares, Stallions, Fillies, and Colts, I hope you’re ready to feel the beat!"
There was a huge amount of hollering.
"I present to you, the lovely, the talented, the beautiful," he said in a sly voice, "Miss Vinyl Scratch!"
Scratch came galloping on stage
"Alright! Who's ready for some beats?" She shouted to the crowd.
Again, ear splitting amounts of hollering and cheering. I gripped my Bass hard, my heart started pumping faster than ever as I realized that in a matter of seconds I would have to be playing on stage. I took a deep breath as Vinyl took her position at her station and gave the small signal. I readied my bass, and began playing.
I was good, really good, not to boast or anything, but you couldn't tell the difference from me playing the bass to Scratch making the bass on her station. There were no gimmicks tonight, no fake energy surges, no fake accidents, only me, and my part was coming up soon.
Scratch lowered her volume and put on a very simplistic beat. At this point I was going over the sheet music in my head.
"1,2,3,4,1,2,3,1,2,1,2,3,4,1,2" I counted in my head, my palms sweating as I readied myself, praying I’d come in on time.
I stepped out of the shadows and started slamming out my solo as loud as I could. It was great. The feeling of the vibrations penetrating my entire body, the screaming of the crowd, and best of all, seeing "The Great And Powerful Trixie" standing in the middle of the room with her lower jaw hitting the dance floor. I was in my own heaven, and I played better than I ever have before.
~---~
"Oh my gosh oh my gosh oh my gosh! You were on stage?! You were so amazing!" Sky gushed a million words a minute as she came up to me with a CD in her hooves.
"Well, I'm certainly glad you enjoyed the show." I smiled signing the small CD with my name
"You humans are so awesome!" She said turning and heading towards the door.
"Don't get too into flirting with the mares," Scratch leaned over and jokingly punched me.
"Don't worry Scratch, I don't plan on cheating on anypony" I said looking at her with a grin
She looked at me strangely then shrugged it off. The signing was almost over, and I didn't see Trixie once the whole time!
I was just about ready to pack up when I heard a strange, quiet, yet familiar voice.
"Uhh, excuse me,"
"Yes? who-" I stopped before I could finish my sentence.
I had never seen anypony that was more majestic looking than this mare before me. Heck! She gave the princess herself a run for the money.
"I've never seen you before."
"Well, let me just say, I'm a big fan," She said grinding a hoof into the ground
She was a pegasus, almost pure white, except for the hints of blue. Her mane was silvery, with white, and blue, and I swear I saw a little yellow at the tip's. Her Cutie mark was that of a tornado made of snow and ice.
"My name is Snow Breeze,"
"May I ask why?"
She spread her wings and started to hover above. She flapped them and I felt a cold rush of air flow by me. As she continued the air around us got cooler and cooler until I couldn't take it anymore, and had to ask her to stop.
"That's amazing!" I said as she elegantly floated down.
"Thanks!" She said excited, almost with a slight "crack" in her voice.
"Let me sign this just for you." I offered, as I signed her CD with a ‘From your friend, David’.
"Thank you!" She said as she turned and trotted towards the exit.
"Why does she seem so familiar?" I wondered "I swear I remember that voice from somewhere"
"Not going to cheat, huh?"
I snapped out of my pool of thoughts "HEY! I wasn't doing anything" I protected myself, "Did you see how happy I made her?"
"Ya, Ya. Lets pack up so we can get back."
"Yeah alright," I agreed, suddenly thinking of a way I could finally tell her how I felt.
"Oh, David, I left a piece of equipment in my room here, can you come help me get it?"
"Sure!" I exclaimed, a little too happily.
Thank you Celestia!
I walked down to her "private studio room" and shut the door behind me, I wanted to lock it, but, I was pretty sure no pony was even in the building anymore.
"Vinyl, I really need to tell you something, right now."
"Again?"
"Yes! I'm sorry for not being clear with you, but there have been some interruptions.”
"Ok, I'm listening"
I knelt down and removed her glasses so I could see her eyes.
"Scratch, I have a special somepony"
"That's great David! Who is it?"
"It's somepony that's cool, creative, and beautiful. Scratch, I-"
"Hello David! The Great And Powerful Trixie is here!"
I felt rage run through me like never before. I just wanted to destroy that mare right there.
"W-what are you doing here?!?!?”
"I thought it would be nice to visit my special somepony after the show!" She said trotting over and hugging me.
"You and Trixie?" Scratch said confused, "That’s- great! I'm so happy you found somepony David!"
A wise man once said "The grass is always greener, on the other side. I however, must confess that in my life, a more appropriate term might sound like "To reach an equilibrium in everything, life must be mirrored. Such is daily struggle." And like everything. It's all for a reason. To get my point across, nothing can be perfect, because in order to reach that state some people are always going to have to suffer. I wish I had known this earlier. I really do. However quoting myself. This needed to happen.....
~---~
"Oh, David. Your home! How was your trip?"
"It was absolute fantastic Twi. ruined everything in one fell swoop"
"W-what's wrong?"
"I want to go back Twilight"
"Back? To Manehatten?"
"I want to go home!!"
"I-I-I can't, it's not that easy"
"Of coarse it's not easy!!!"
~---~
I can now only hope that a Manticore would stumble upon me, as I sit against this tree, thinking of everything I have done. God, I'm such an idiot. Acting the role of a five year old throwing a tantrum.....
~---~
"Oh, hi David, where have you been? I haven't seen you around lately, and I was starting to worry"
"Where have I been? To hell and back."
"I-I'm so sorry, what's wrong"
"Sorry. Your, sorry? Is that the only thing your are good at? Being sorry?!?!?"
~---~
Had I really said those thing's? oOf coarse, and now, I feel sorry for myself, which only make's me more angry.
"Why couldn't I have just stayed were I was with Natalie"
~---~
"Howdy David! How are you on this fine afternoon?"
"I could be a lot better."
"Well, Apple Bloom and her friend's wanted to know if you could "hang out with em'", I'm guessing your helping them get there cutie mark?"
"Tell them that they should learn to help them self's"
"Something wrong David?"
"Ya, just leave me alone"
~---~
I'm so, so, stupid.......
*Whoosh!* *Thud!*
I looked up.
"Rainbow Dash?" I muttered "How did you find me? Why did you find me?" I stumbled over my words, as mixed emotions temporarily left my current being.
She looked very nervous. "Uhhhh, well, you see."
I examined her as she fidgeted around, looking for her words. She was, strange. Her normally frizzy out of place mane was straitened, and she looked.... "clean". Not to say, she usually isn't, but, her mane had a "sparkle" to it. Almost like she had spent a good day at the spa.
"Uhhh- David?"
"What?" I said, suddenly realizing that I had been staring at her for some time now.
"Listen, this is really hard for me, like, you have no idea!"
"What are you talking about Dash?"
"The cloudy night when you walked home from Scratch's house."
I raised an eyebrow.
"That night you talked with Luna, and fell asleep on the porch." She said now lowering her head "In the Manehatten park.."
"So you mean to tell me, that you have been spying on me?!?!?!" I said remembering the promise I made to myself only day's ago.
She lowered her head further, and I noticed she was wearing a saddle bag, with a rectangle "bulge" in the side, that, for some reason, stuck out to me.
"what's in the bag?"
She didn't answer, but instead reached in and pulled out a large, colorful, thin, box, and, put it down shamefully.
"From your friend David" She said guiltily.
I looked at the object, and immediately realized what it was. "Snow, she, gave this to you?"
"No"
"You stole this from Snow?"
"No" She said once again, a tear dropping from her eye
"THEN HOW DID YOU GET THIS!?!?!?"
"I AM SNOW!" Dash said angrily, tears now streaming down here dreamy blue face.
"What??"
"I paid a unicorn a good amount of bit's for a spell that would alter my appearance, and enchant my wings."
"Dash..."
"And the only reason I have been staying away from you is because I have a huge crush on you!"
"C-crush?"
"Your the only human that has ever been here! How cool is that?"
I realized that she was suddenly just inch's away from me. Then she collapsed onto me, hoof's around me, face on my chest.
"What am I supposed to do?" I wondered in a panic. My entire body was one throbbing vain of mixed emotions. She's the reason I couldn't tell Scratch how I felt. So I should be angry at her, but here she is, exposed, and obviously hurting. Do I tell her, I don't like her?
"I love you" I heard a small muffle come out of the cyan Pegasus.
Something suddenly snapped. "love", The one word I could never say to Scratch, and yet here RD is, saying it with no problem's.
"Dash, get off of me"
"W-what"
"GET OFF OF ME RIGHT NOW!"
The Pegasus, jumped off of me and backed away
"David, are you alright?"
"ALRIGHT!?!? YA I'M FINE!" I yelled at her
she turned, painfully, and mouthed what I can only guess was "why Celestia" before taking off through the dense canopy of the Everfree.
"and now I'm alone" I said, my entire body throbbing.
I screamed and turned around, fist clenched, only to find a partner to meet my angry gaze.
the bight orange eye's of a Manticore.
*Thud!*
I blacked out.......
~---~
"David? Daaaaavid?" I sweet voice cooed
"Wake up, David"
I opened my eye's.
"Twi, is that you?"
"yes" she said sweetly putting a hoof lightly on my head. "how do you feel?"
"ugh, my head" I said trying to lean forward
"no,no, it's ok, your fine. Just relax."
I looked over to see Rainbow Dash,staring at me, a slight hint of concern in her eye's
"Rainbow! I'm SO SORRY!!!!"
She gave me a strange look
"Sorry for what?"
"The Everfree..."
"I was never in the Everfree with you David" She said "That potion, must have done something real strange with your head.."
"My, head?"
"Ya, don't you remember?" Twi said with concern.
"What happened exactly?"
"Well, I was walking through the Everfree, on my way to pick some wild tapnature's." She paused "Actually i was going to make this really cool potion, and-"
"Twi, please"
"oh yes, I'm sorry. Anyway when i saw you, face to face, with a manticore. then, you, well." I heard RD giggle
"You knocked his lights out, BAM!, one punch!!"
"Ya, and I'm only here because I was passing by." Fluttershy said quietly.
"but you've never talked to me since, well. A LONG time"
"Wait, wait, wait. What's all this about a potion?" I questioned.
"well I just so happened to be passing by, when I saw you in front of a rather hideous looking cart. I kept on going, but just caught a glimpse of you downing a potion."
"So" I paused "All a hallucination?"
"I can only imagine what that potion could have done to you"
"And, I can only imagine what kind of crazy dream's you might have had while knocked out." Twi said with a giggle
"So, I never came back to the library?"
"Not until this time" Twi smiled
The vivid color's of the horrid nightmare of depression, and anger, started to fade like a bad dream.
"I have, gone to the concert with Scratch right?"
"Of course"
"Good" I laid my head down on the pillow Letting out a deep, relaxed sigh. "I'm going to need a few packed lunch's, a map of Equestria, and any information on the location of any pony that may know Trixie."
"What are you planning David?"
"A friendly get together with Trixie." I smiled "I need to figure out what's going on.."
Well how about I explain why I've been on the road with a couple of groupies for the past month.
It all started after I left the library. Twi prepared everything I would need: Map, water, allowance, and many a packed lunch. All of which have been exhausted with the exception of the crumpled map in my back pocket. Anyway's, I set out south t'words Manehatten once more. I didn't stay long, just long enough to meet up with rose, and her two friends. Needless to say, they make half decent companions. I had made record time to Manehatten, clocking in at just over 4 days on foot. After that I just kept going. Now, if you must know, the first 3 nights with sky were incredibly awkward, Mainly because of how cold it was because all we had was a small tent and 2 blankets, we had to learn to share body heat. Rose would giggle, and always make smart remarks like.
"What's the matter, scared of a little' ol mare like me? Or
"Don't worry I won't tell Scratch." All in all, I became accustom to the idea, and as a result we have practically become family. We would constantly tell tales of adventure, or just funny stories or experiences. However, when all else failed. I had my endless stream of tales from earth. Oh, and I would also always have my guitar with me.
This way of life would get us as far as sunset village, which is where we find ourself's at this very moment. Hot on Trixies trail.
"Play us one of your songs Dave."
"Ya, come on......"
I looked down to see three bright eyed mares looking up at me. "Cmon, you've heard everything."
"play us that one YOU wrote, you know, the love one." Ribbon requested.
"Oh, you guys know I haven't played that for anypony yet."
"You played it for me." Sky batted her eyes at me, her friends giggled.
"You were eaves dropping"
"Maybe so, but still I was the only mare to hear it to this day."
"Oooooooh, romantic" Her friends chimed
I was about to tell her off when I decided I would try, and take it further.
"Ya, I suppose it was" I agree'd wrapping my arm around her, and getting down to her level. "especially from a "dreamy human" such as myself." She went a little red, but got over it, and nuzzled my cheek.
"yes, very dreamy" She replied
"Ok, that's enough." I pulled away, snapping her out of her trance. "Whoa, I think we're finally here"
"What's Trixies carriage?" Sky said in awe "That's a pretty big carriage"
"It's certainly a lot larger then I imagined" Essence added
"No point in just sitting here and gawking at it, would you three stay here while I take care of it?"
"Ya, all right, just be careful."
I walked over to the door, and knocked 3 times. I closed my eye's and expected the worse.
"*sniff* Who is it? Trixie is *sniffle* busy!"
"T-Trixie? A-are you ok?" I asked, she sounded horrible.
"Who is it?"
"Uhhhhh- your, special somepony......"
The door opened, and I saw one destroyed looking Trixie. Her eye's were red, probably from pawing at them. Her mane was dishevelled, and I could see a pile of tissues behind her on the table.
"What do you want *sniff* now?"
"What do I want? After what YOU did!?! Gee I don't know!"
"Just leave me alone! I'm not supposed to speak with you."
"Not supposed.....?" I pushed my way past her, and entered her carriage. I saw that next to the tissue's was a small pile of unfinished letters.
Dear David
What I did was wrong, but I can't tell you why I did it
David, what I did wasn't my fault
David please except my dearest ap....
And so on. however I realised that there was a finished note at the bottom.
Canterlot Royalty
I will accept your request princess, I don't really feel as I have a choice, just as long as I don't have to collaborate with the others. I don't know why your doing this, but who am I to question Canterlot Royalty?
Trixie
"Oh my god Trixie"
"D-David, I'm so sorry" I turned to see her watery eye's.
"Who sent you?"
"I can't say, however your series of events was not natural. *sniff* I'm, *sniff* so, sorry David. *sob* I didn't realise how strong your love for her is!" She hung her head.
"no Trixie" I started, putting my hand under her chin. "It wasn't your fault." I raised her eyes to mine. "But, I need you to come with me now."
"*sniffle" Ok, What do you need me for?"
"We're going to see Scratch."
No longer am I David, but now a mighty Manticore. Nothing will get in my way.
"So how did you come upon such a massive carriage?" Sky questioned
"Family, I inherited it."
"And how are we going so fast" Ribbon asked
"It's enchanted"
"So you don't-" Essence started
"MUST YOU ASK SO MANY QUESTIONS?" Trixie lost it. "*sigh* Sorry, I'm just not used to having company..." She turned to see 3 small mares curled up in the corner. "Regardless we're almost there..."
I can't lie very well, and I knew, that everypony else knew, that I was scared. I was going up against the highest of law in this world, and as far as anypony is concerned, I'm an alien. I may not even have rights here. I'm probably free game. *sigh* With all this I still can't deny the lump sitting in my throat from the idea of talking with Scratch. What is a man to say? "Uhh, hi Scratch, I'm being hunted down by Canterlot royalty right now so let me make this quick, I love you." Anyway I put the words through, I always end up sounding like an idiot, but, is that not how love works? The more you suffer, and toil for that one moment of satisfaction only makes it stronger..... but..... only if I make it.
"David?" Sky looked over worryingly "You ok? Your looking a little pale"
I tried to force a smile onto my face "you needn't worry about me Sky" I put a hand on her head "If I don't make it back, tell Twi I'm thankful for everything she's done" I held in my tears "And don't loose that album I signed for you. It'll be worth a fortune one day."
Sky was struggling to hold in her tears, and gave me a hug. "Come on David, its not like were going to your funeral. This should be a happy day. For all of us." She final managed to smile
"your right, I guess I'm just being overly dramatic" I pushed her off of me playfully.
Part of me wanted to explain the situation fully to her, how I was the wanted man on a world wide manhunt, but that would be cruel...... hey, you ever get that feeling of marching t'words something you don't want to do, but you know that at the end of the path it's unavoidable? Well, *ugh* I think I'm going to be sick.
"We're almost there" Trixie said in monotone
"Ok Trixie, I need you to come with me" I began to brief her "If what you said is true, then all hell is going to break loose once we get there"
She nodded "So.... does this mean we're even?" I couldn't tell if she was joking, or being genuine.
"Let's not get ahead of ourself, and just let the outcome of this final thing determine our standing." She flashed a frown at me, and I can't blame her, our task is daunting, and our chances slim.
"Hey, am I the only one that can hear that?" Ribbon questioned
"Royal trumpets....." Essence said grimly
"Trixie, stop the cart!"
"ARE YOU CRAZY!?!?"
"We're a much smaller target on foot!"
"What the hell did I sign up for?" I had to give a little chuckle, as we jumped out the side of the cart, and began running.
At this point I didn't know what was going on, and the thundering sound of trumpets pierced my ears consistently. I began to lower my form, and sprint even faster. Love, hate, and a longing to end it all coursing through my veins like pure adrenaline. I looked behind me to see Trixie falling behind, meter, by meter, as I continually sped up. I swear I could have given RD a good run for her money in a race, and as the door to Scratch's studio approached, my train of thought was completely lost, and my heart jumped into my throat. Many doubts ran through my mind, many doubts that ended with 3 words.
"CANTERLOT ROYALTY, HALT!" I turned to see an exhausted Trixie at spear tip.
"TRIXIE!"
Her horn glowed as our eyes met, and I felt the throbbing from my heart disappear. In fact, I couldn't feel anything, until the shaking started, and 3 large pillars of earth rose from the ground with the guards on top. I could feel my heart begin to pump again and Trixie fell to the ground.
"Trixie....." I said sympathetically
"Go David, be with Scratch, please"
"I would suppose the tables have turned." I said jokingly
She smiled once before her head lightly hit the ground, and another squad of guards was mindlessly chasing me again. I turned, and sprinted off again, shortly after meeting the door.
*Knock, Knock, Knock*
The door opened, and just before I pushed Scratch out of the way I heard a very desperate voice behind me "NO STOP! PLEASE!" The last word running through my mind before I shut the door, and locked it.
"What the hell, what do you think your doing?!?!?"
"Scratch, please..."
*Slam Slam Slam* "Canterlot royalty, come out or we will bring your door down!"
"David, what have you gotten yourself into!?!"
"Scratch not now, please" I knelt to her level, knowing that with the legion of anxious guards behind the door, I had no time to sugar coat it. "Everything that happened, it's not how it was supposed to happen."
"What??"
"On the count of 10 we will enter by force"
"The distractions, Trixie..."
"David......."
"It was all a series of misfortune, it was all staged.."
"S-staged?" her voice now sympathetic.
"7,8"
"The fact is Scratch, I have strong feelings for you." My heart stopped for the second time. "I love you Scratch" I leaned forward "I always have" my lips met hers.
*SMASH* "WE HAVE YOU NOW!!!"
This was different, I could now feel a heart beat, but..... It wasn't mine, it was, hers....... I raised my hand, and it glowed a dark, luminescent blue, making the walls around the guards close in around them, boxing them in like rats. I broke the kiss.
"I-I-I love you too" a tear running down her beautiful cheek "I love you..." I sat there, feeling a wave of steady dizzyness wash over me, I realised I was talking to her, she laughed, yet, I didn't mean to talk....... everything went white.....
~---~
"Ugh, uhhhh, ow......"
"Arise, David"
"Celestia, y-you, why? Where?"
"David, I'm so proud of you"
"Proud!!?!?!?" I screamed "That's why I'm here? In this prison!?!?"
"Oh? Prison?" She turned her head "If prison then maybe I was wrong......"
"F-fine, where am I?"
"Don't you see? You'r in your own Subconscious....."
"I don't understand, how are you here then?"
"An Alicorn's power is great" she paused "However even I can't compare to your's....."
"Mine?"
"Yes, yours. Are you not aware??"
"No"
"Ahh, so many questions" *sigh* "You've used it twice today"
"you mean......"
"Your heart stopping, David, you can't take that as a coincidence.
"What?"
"You see David, everypony has an element. However they require another's element to use them to their full potential"
"Trixie....."
"Indeed, you gave her your heart, your, element... you made the connection."
"So me and Trixie, we're, destined to be together?"
"Well, no.... you see. Everypony has a unique half, but you. You, David, are able to rapidly adapt to any element."
"So what your saying is that I can never find my true match...."
"Not exactly, David, you felt a strange presence before you used your power on my guards."
"Ya, that's correct"
"Scratch completed you....."
"oh......."
"Yes, I'm so very proud of you David"
I looked around, the sudden hit of realisation dizzying me "W-why would you stop me then? Why would you keep me from Scratch!?!?"
"I was.... afraid"
"Celestia.... afraid...... afraid of what?
"Humans..." she lowered her head
"Why be afraid of a human?"
"Because I have studied humans.. I have studied you. Your species is volatile, incapable of adapting to an element." Her look of determination and disgust quickly turning to a sweet sympathy "Even you David..... you went as far as....."
My eyes tear'd up, and I shook my head "God rest Marcus's soul"
"But I see though all of that now. You have proven to me that you are more" She lowered her head, and her slender horn glowed and sparked of rainbows. Suddenly I could see myself, all around me, memories.... "Me buying the apartment... Twi arriving....." I dwell'd in awe, as my newly familiar thoughts and worries of earth re-rooted them self in my mind. "Mom, and dad"
"All but memories David"
"Marcus"
"And so comes the hard part. I'm sorry.... but...... I need to erase everything...."
"Everything? I wont have any memory of home?"
"David...." She said in a soft tone "You are home"
"But, these are my memories, my thoughts"
"Don't think them memories but evidence. Traces back before your element"
"Ok" I said in a sturdy voice "Ok Celestia, just do it" I lowered my head "I no longer need them anyway" A tear running down my cheek.
"David," She smiled "David Scratch, welcome home, welcome to Equestria" I felt her place her horn lightly on my head, and I smiled, knowing what was coming, reminiscing my past one last time. "Do you accept David?"
~--~
I opened my eye's to see Scratch's. I looked around seeing everyponies anxiety as they awaited my answer. And do you know what I said?
I'm beginning to remember less and less of my previous life, and you know what? I'm fine with that. I'm truly living with the town folk now, and despite keeping my human form, they can see my element just as much as I myself can feel it. It's amazing, like a connection deep inside...... David looked around the room, with a content smile on his face. Everypony he knew and then some were attending the event, filling the room with gentle chit chatter. He couldn't necessarily pick out a singular melody of conversation, but there was just something so relaxing about the clutter.
"David?" He turns around, hastily snapping out of his daze to see his beloved Scratch
"Yes Scratch?" He looks deep into her eyes, showing a little concern. She sounded legitimately conflicted about something.
"Is... It all right if I go hang with my friends for a bit?" She kicks a hoof cutely "Their just outside." She says hastily
"You don't have to ask me. Go on, have fun" She smiles back at you before trotting happily out of the wedding room. He takes the time to ponder why her friends didn't simply come in to see her, but.... It left his train of thought just as quickly as it entered as he looks around the room, hoping to scout out somepony, anypony to engage in conversation with.
"H-hi David..." A timid, and nervous voice comes from behind him. He turns, expecting Flutttershy, or anypony, but the mare that stood before him nervously.
"Rainbow? So nice to see you made it." He smiles genuinely at her
"I just.... Came to apologize....." She looks down "For everything I've done......" You raise an eyebrow "You know, the whole "I love you" thing..." David's eyes go wide
"Ohhhh ya. No its fine Rainbow, I know you didn't really have a choice..." David notices that her eyes, those large orbs of cerise, begin to well up "Oh... Rainbow do you?" She looks down shamed. David's heart seemingly melts on the spot, at the very strange change in attitude for the usual hyper, charismatic, Dashie.
"I can't help it David, I'm sorry.." David looks around the room cautiously before kneeling down and wrapping his arms around the cyan Pegasus. She gasps with dramatically "David! What are you-" David puts a finger to her lips gently.
"I may love scratch, but you're still the coolest flyer in Equestria." RD smiles, and hugs back before quickly backing off, and shoots off into the sky. He chuckles to himself "Oh Dashie......" He walks, satisfied with the turn of events, and heads towards the door. *Boom! rumble, rumble* David quickly turns, to see a beautiful array of colours exploding from the sky. "Wow. Sonic Rainboom....." He stares in awe, as everypony cheers.
