open The Town That Friendship Forgot

[Bastian 13,319]

@Samurai Equine

Allright, I'll trust you, for now at least, but remember that we are here to save the family ok? Not to purify demons.

And so he walks beside Trilby to their next destination, the cemetery.

[Jack Baker 698]

Seven days.

That was how long Raze had been on the road for. Seven long days of nothing but walking, resting, eating whatever food he had left, and walking some more. Now he found himself somewhere in the Equestrian wilderness, walking down a dirt path he had no idea where it would lead. His supplies were low, and his money, lower than that. He sighed.

"...This sucks," he muttered to himself. His last job was protecting a cargo train going to Dodge Junction, and since then, he hadn't been able to find any jobs that required a mercenary. Not only that, but during his search to find new work, it appeared he seemed to have gotten himself lost somehow. A heavy fog had surrounded the path he was traveling on, and now here he was.

That's the last time I ever decide to go down a road I've never taken before, he thought to himself, lightly kicking a rock out of the way. Whoever wrote that poem about taking the road less traveled by should be banned from writing. Makes all the difference, my hoof...

His stomach began to rumble. The thought of a warm meal immediately entered his mind, and he sighed once more.

As he continued to sulk, he suddenly spotted something in the distance. It looked like a berry bush of some kind. He quickly ran towards it, and began to carefully examine it.

They were bright red and spherical. Nothing else of note.

Don't look like any berries I've ever seen... As he started to contemplate the toxicity of them, he then noticed a peculiar object right in front of the berry bush.

It was a wooden sign. With the name of a town, it looked like.

"Welcome to Friendshire..." he read out loud. "...Huh?"

He looked around. A town in the middle of this heavy forest? When there weren't any others for miles around?

"...Is this what it's like to hallucinate from hunger?" he asked himself. He touched the sign. It was... well, a sign. As real as it could feel.

"...Screw it," he said, as he walked forward. If it ends up as a hallucination somehow and I end up walking into a den of Timberwolves... well, that doesn't seem like the worst way to go out.

 

Edited March 8, 2020 by Jack Baker

[Kronos the Revenant 1,971]

Kronos finally went up onto the stage.

He awkwardly went up to the microphone, as he was standing on his hind legs only, and tapped on it.

After it gave a little feedback, he said, “Umm, hello. My name is Kronos. And this is an original song i wrote myself called ‘Crazy For You’. I hope you guys enjoy.”

 

After strumming a few chords, he began to play:

Verse 1:

My heart's been broken far too many times before

I used to think romance was just an uphill war

But then you came along and turned my world around

I used to think I was always lost but now I feel found

 

Chorus:

You seem so out of reach, you seem so exclusive

I wanna reach out, but I get shy and reclusive

Whenever I'm near you, I start to quiver

My skin starts to shake, my bones and muscles shiver

But when you're near me, my brain begins to thrive

Whenever you smile at me, I start to feel alive

 

Verse 2:

I've never been much of a romantic guy

But I wanna be the one who catches your eye

Whenever I lay my eyes on you, my mind gets so hazy

I can't stop thinking about you, I think I'm going crazy

 

(Chorus)

 

Verse 3:

Now I can't seem to find the right words to say

To tell you how much you've lead my heart astray

But every time I see you make that special smile

I makes me feel warm all over and makes my efforts worth all the while

 

(Chorus)

Edited March 7, 2020 by Kronos the Revenant

[Pastel Heart 6,466]

@Samurai Equine

Pastel giggled and hugged Samurai, her tail swaying back and forth.

"Hehe, it was fun!~ I'm glad I made everypony happy! I can't wait to see Dyny's face, mwehehe~"

@ExplosionMare

She nodded and watched Pencil's performance. She smiled, moved by her voice; she was pretty and had a great voice to boot, like Princess Twilight!

When Pencil rearrived, Pastel jumped up and down as if doing her own little cheer. 

"You were super cool!~ you were awesome! Nice dress too!"

She watched Kronos' performance with wide eyes. Suave~ something seemed odd about him to her though, not that that was a bad thing. Just different, like everypony else she met so far!

Edited March 8, 2020 by Pastel-chan
oops

[Astral Vision 286]

11 minutes ago, Pastel-chan said:

@Samurai Equine

Pastel giggled and hugged Samurai, her tail swaying back and forth.

"Hehe, it was fun!~ I'm glad I made everypony happy! I can't wait to see Dyny's face, mwehehe~"

@ExplosionMare

She nodded and watched Pencil's performance. She smiled, moved by her voice; she was pretty and had a great voice to boot, like Princess Twilight!

When Pencil rearrived, Pastel jumped up and down as if doing her own little cheer. 

"You were super cool!~ you were awesome! Nice dress too!"

She watched Kronos' performance with wide eyes. Suave~ something seemed odd about him to her though, not that that was a bad thing. Just different, like everypony else she met so far!

 

@Pastel-chan @Dynamo Pad

Astral was in awe from what he just witnessed, Pastel was truly magnificent on stage, and her voice was as clear as the shining day. He turned to Dynamo in the seat next to him, whispering into his ear "I bet you're really proud of her." Astral then got out of his seat and quietly made his way backstage, hoping to congratulate Pastel on her incredible performance. Astral heard the songs of two more ponies as he walked past, and could tell there was a lot of talent onstage today. Eventually, Astral found Pastel smiling ear to ear with the others.

"Pastel, I saw your performance, and it was great! Your element must be music, cause I haven't seen talent like that in quite some time, especially from such a young pony."

[ExplosionMare 18,062]

@Pastel-chan

Pencil smiled at the filly complimenting her. 
 

“Thank you! You were really good up there as well! Your song was really nice and your dress was really pretty! Everypony else did pretty good as well. Usually these things are kinda boring but ponies here seemed to actually take this type of thing seriously for once,” she told the pink filly.

@Samurai Equine

She then turned to her friend Samurai who congratulated her as well. She smiled and said,

“Thanks! I really liked your performance as well even though I didn’t understand the words. There’s something about songs in foreign languages that I love: a song can sound good no matter the language as long as the music and the vocals are good. At least, that’s how I see it,”

Pencil stomped her hooves excitedly in a quiet manner to show that she was very happy. She was having a lot of fun at the open mic contest and couldn’t wait to see everypony else preform. Quieting herself, Pencil took a seat and waited for the next pony to appear on stage.

Edited March 8, 2020 by ExplosionMare
Added Samurai

[Windy Breeze 15,189]

@Samurai Equine @Bastian

As soon as the thing finished planting plunderseeds to the path she used, she let Shadow gain control of her own body. The mare collapsed from exhaustion. Shadow breathes as a mist came out of her body and formed a shadow of a large alicorn.

“I am very disappointed for trying to fall in love with a stallion who prefers the day instead of the night, Shadow Trail. Remember what happened to your friend, Nightingale, when she fall in love with a pegasus stallion? She betrayed and the rest of the Shadowbolts followed her and now, they are now respecting the sun and that Celestia!” It fumed in anger.

“I'm very sorry, your highness” Shadow said, bowing infront of the mist out of fear from experiencing a punishment “Forgive me, Princess Nightmare Moon, forgive me!” 

The thing sighed “You don't have to beg to be forgiven, Shadow. You are my only ally and my only subject left. Honestly, i was very impressed by your loyalty to me, i assumed you would left me when Nightingale finally rejected me” it glanced back at the town and the vines, sprouting out from the path where the seeds fell. “Your current mission is to get away from the green earth pony stallion, Forest Gum, the monk from the Everfree Forest. He is capable of sensing dark magic so go back to Haytona and improve your reputation there to have more ponies supporting you. If this happens, they won't believe a single word from our enemies and if you are able to reach Ponyville, get rid of the elements and the bearers”

Shadow reluctantly nods “I will, your highness. For the glory of the night!” she saluted, earning what assumed to be a smile from the mist. 

 

 

Edited March 8, 2020 by Windy Breeze

[Samurai Equine 51,392]

As soon as Raze enters Friendshire, he sees it is no illusion at all. It really is a full sized city! And while some ponies are more than happy to welcome him warmly with a wave or random ‘hello’, it is clear that the majority of the town is focused on something else.

There is a faint sound of music swaying in the air, and if he follows it, it’ll lead him to the town square where an open-mic concert is being held. There is noticeable advertisements for it everywhere!

@Kronos the Revenant, @Pastel-chan, @ExplosionMare, @Astral Vision, @Dynamo Pad

Samurai is happy to have a happy conversation with his new friends, but also revels at Kronos’s performance. “Marvelous.” When he finishes, applause and cheer roar up loudly for his performance.

However, Samurai has to step aside when he feels something. Finding a private spot, he notices his magic puzzle box going off. It projects a green check mark. “Perfect! Another success.”
When he puts the box away, he notices Astral has joined them. “Pencil, Pastel, could one of you do me a favor and congratulate that stallion that just performed? I want to know more about him, but I have some very important business to tend to.”

Samurai also pulls Astral aside for a moment. “I’m going to ask a big favor of you and Dynamo. Protect the concert. Before I performed, I couldn’t help but sense something dangerous. Whatever it is, I am sure I can handle it. I just don’t want to the town to get suspicious or panicky over anything yet. If we’re lucky, it might nothing.”

Putting his trust in his friends, Samurai takes his leave, teleporting away.

@Jack Baker

Samurai reappears somewhere in town. “I guess the first thing I should do is try to magically trace that strange feeling I picked up, and then…” He stops his train of thought when he randomly finds Raze.

“Oh, hello! You must be new here.” Samurai bows. “My name is Samurai Equine. I’ve been living in Friendshire for a while now, so it’s my honor to welcome newcomers. What’s your name?”

@Windy Breeze, @Bastian

The two stallions trot a little faster until they reach a strange path. “This road doesn’t always have this much vegetation, but we’re close to the cemetery. Go ahead, try to find the family, but stay out of sight for now. And keep an eye out for my signal, just in case…” Trilby says to Forest before proceeding in deeper.

Through sheer luck, he finds her.
(I don’t know if the alicorn silhouette is still visible or not. I’m assuming it would probably vanish first.)
“Shadow?! Shadow Trail! It’s me, Trilby. I came all this way for you. I need to tell you something important.”

Edited March 8, 2020 by Samurai Equine

[Windy Breeze 15,189]

@Samurai Equine @Bastian

Shadow glanced behind her. Her eyes widened at the sight of Trilby, who was unaware of the of plunderseeds hiding nearby. 

“Trilby, DON'T!” she tried to warn him but the plunderseeds are more quick than her. The vines sprouted out of their hiding place and lungs for the stallion.

When the thing saw Trilby, it quickly went back inside of her. Shadow gasped in surprise and kneeled as she was slowly gaining control of her. Shadow didn't resist. 

Edited March 8, 2020 by Windy Breeze

[Jack Baker 698]

As Raze walked past the main gate, the wilderness began to give way to civilization, as more and more buildings began to appear. There was something else, something he could hear in the distance...

"...Is that music?" he asked himself. From the sound, it appeared to be straight ahead. Adjusting the longsword on his back and his Evoker on his right side, he slowly made his way towards the sounds... until he came face to face with a stranger, who greeted him very politely.

"Hello there..." Raze said, a bit suspicious. "...You the mayor of these parts? How do you know I'm new and not just some shut in who never leaves his house all day?"

@Samurai Equine

 

Edited March 8, 2020 by Jack Baker

[Samurai Equine 51,392]

@Windy Breeze

"Huh? AH!!" Surprisingly, despite being a unicorn with NO combat abilities or super refined magic, Trilby notices the dangerous-looking vines shooting out for him, and he runs for it!
But he doesn't leave the area. He circles around, desperately leaping, ducking, rolling and doing everything he can to avoid the vines.

"S-Shadow!! I need to talk to you!! But not you, the other you. The one inside. I know she can hear me, and I've come to make her an offer." Trilby says, determined to complete his mission.

@Jack Baker

"Me, the mayor? Heh, no, sorry. No one has seen either of the mayors for a long time now. But, up until yesterday, there were so few citizens here that keeping up with all of them wasn't too hard. So I know a newcomer when I see one." Samurai explains himself. "And what's your name? Before I tell you more about the town, I can't welcome you properly if I don't know who you are."

[Jack Baker 698]

@Samurai Equine

Raze looked carefully at him. It didn't seem like he was lying to him. His suspicions began to ease up, as he took a deep breath.

"Apologies, friend," he said to Samurai. "When you're in my line of work, you tend to ask a lot of questions." He smiled slightly. "Name's Raze. Travelin' blade for hire."

[Windy Breeze 15,189]

@Samurai Equine

Shadow's eyes turn black as the thing said through her mouth “Offer? Do you think I would accept an offer from a sun loving pony?” it scoffed using Shadow's face and let out a 'humph' “It seems you really like my subject. Too bad i decline your offer whatever it is. Your 'marefriend' is my hostage now and if you go close to her” the black empty eyes glowed as she threatened him “I'll TAKE THE LIFE OUT OF HER!” 

[Samurai Equine 51,392]

@Windy Breeze

"No! Wait! Please... You don't understand!!!"
It was go for broke time. No more running from these crazy vines; he's running out of room anyways.

Instead, Trilby runs up as close as he can possibly get to Shadow. When he feels he is close enough, he takes off his jacket to reveal what he has been wearing underneath:

It's a Shadowbolts uniform!
...Wait, no, it's not an official uniform. It's a recreation. A really good recreation, but not quite the same thing. The materials are wrong, but still, it looks close enough to the real thing. The colors are correct at least.
With the jacket off, he looks Shadow in the eyes. "I've come to make a bargain." That's the last thing Trilby has time to say. The rest is up to Shadow and the spirit living inside her. Either the plunderseeds will be called off, or he'll get caught in them.

@Jack Baker

Samurai puts it together. "A blade for hire? ...Oh! A fellow master of the sword!" Samurai gets excited over this. "I might just have a job for you! Granted, I can't pay right away... I am chasing after a possible evil that has infiltrated this town. I'd really love the help of an experienced swordspony. If you say yes  then I'll definitely find a way to pay you afterwards. Somehow. But you don't have to agree to it."

Samurai takes a moment to point. "In that direction is a peaceful music concert. If you go there, I am sure you can make friends. You can even perform a music number if you want. There is a skilled band that can pick up any music style you like, and the stage is open to all. If you'd prefer to do something more peaceful, then I won't hold it against you. I only ask you to join me if you have an honorable heart that follows the will of justice."

[Windy Breeze 15,189]

@Samurai Equine

The thing looks closely, squinting at the uniform to make sure nothing will be left out. 

It's fake. Fake, fake, fake, FAAAAKE!!! 

The thing suddenly lost control of Shadow's mouth as the latter smiled. Realizing that her last subject is about to betray her, she decided to gave her an ultimate punishment.

“Tribly” Shadow said, reaching out a hoof to touch the Shadowbolt uniform. It's obvious she doesn't know it's fake “You're also a-” however, she wasn't able to finish as she began to convulse. The mare grimaced and fell to the ground, twitching but still conscious, evident by the sounds of choking. Her hoof she was reaching out ends up pinching the uniform Trilby's wearing.

The plunderseeds quickly surrounded the two, their vines growing and going to several directions, one heading for the town.

Shadow Trail accepts the offer but not the thing inside of her as it continues to threaten Trilby but hurting it's own subject. It's very serious and will not hesitate to do what it wants. 

10 minutes ago, Windy Breeze said:

@Samurai Equine

Note: This is an error

Edited March 8, 2020 by Windy Breeze

[Jack Baker 698]

@Samurai Equine

Raze lifted a brow at Samurai's request. "A job you say? Involving somethin' evil? Well you have my interest, friend... however I don't know how I feel about not getting paid up front. Ya see, I'm a bit strapped for cash at the moment..."

He began to contemplate the otherwise vague details. From the sounds of it, this seemed like a big deal to him. And big deals usually meant big money. He looked carefully again at his potential client, analyzing him. If this was a trick of some sort... he supposed he could fight his way out of it. He shrugged.

"Eh, whatever. As long as I get paid in the end... I'll take your job. Not really much into the whole concert thing either, the money has me more interested... though I might stop by once this is over." He adjusted his longsword on his back once more.

"Sounds to me like you're already on the way of catching this 'evil'," he said to Samurai. "Lead the way then, friend."

[Samurai Equine 51,392]

@Jack Baker

While this all might seem very sudden, if Raze is any judge of character at all, he'd notice that the look in Samurai's eyes just seems to pure and confident to be a liar. There's a glint of positivity that doesn't come from jaded pessimists or liars. "All right! In that case, follow me."

Samurai starts off the search, mostly following his gut, but also some subtle clues. Some of the houses and buildings around the concert area have suffered some minor damage. Not a lot to alert most ponies, but you can definitely see it upon closer inspection. That, and occasionally, Samurai's horn lightly glows. "Yeah... I can sense it... Whoever the infiltrator is, they definitely came this way. I'm not a monk or anything, so my ability to trace magical signals is not perfect. However, daily purification is part of my training. It tempers the soul and my magic. That training is clearly coming in handy right now." Samurai explains.

He's using every tracking skill he has. Looking for strange hoofprints, sniffing around for strange smells... But as they travel deeper, Raze is the first to notice something just up ahead. It's a house that's been ransacked, with heavy amounts of visible damage.

@Windy Breeze

Trilby would be shaking in fear if he wasn't focusing on the scene in front of him.

!!

Then he notices that the vines must have stopped. However, he doesn't have time to celebrate.
"Shadow!" He goes over to her side, taking her hoof in his. He is worried, but he can't let this chance slip by. "Umm... Oh, I guess it's true what they say, there is a spirit living inside my marefriend. If you're listening spirit, please here me out. Before tonight, the only thing I believed in was hats. I know this uniform is fake, I've never seen or held the real thing. But I made this for one reason... I am here to make a bargain. One life for another."

Trilby puts a hoof over Shadow's chest, where her heart would be. "I am willing to pledge my eternal loyalty to you and you alone, but only under one condition. Posses me. Make my body you vessel. Please, leave the mare I love alone. Wouldn't a unicorn be more helpful to your cause than a pegasus?" Trilby makes the offer.

[Windy Breeze 15,189]

@Samurai Equine

Shadow stops convulsing but her eyes turn black once again. The thing was surprised by the second offer. A pegasus is just a pony who could control the weather but a unicorn is more stronger than them, even average an unicorn can overpower a pegasus.

“Very well” the thing spoke through Shadow's tongue “But it doesn't change the fact my subject's life is still in the line, for she made an oath and if she broke it, she would turn into a black puddle of liquid for breaking a promise that shall never be broken”

At the time, Shadow was unconscious. Her body went limp and a mist came out of her. This mist was more bigger than the previous as it was carrying all the magic which resides inside the mare, it looks like an alicorn as tall as Princess Luna “If you really want to be my new vessel, this mare has to forgot about what happened today, only her memory from the previous day will be spared along with her past” it told Trilby “and since you will be my second vessel, this means your very life depends on me; if you tell any of your friends about me, I'll be turning not only Shadow but also you into a puddle”

If Tribly becomes the next vessel, the dark magic wouldn't be sensed and feel by other equines.

With Forest still at the cemetery, everything seems to be easy. 

Edited March 8, 2020 by Windy Breeze

[Dynamo Pad 11,305]

17 hours ago, Pastel-chan said:

@Samurai Equine

Backstage, Pastel clapped as Samurai not only performed his song, but did an encore! With that incredible performance, she guessed pressure was on! But that wasn't so bad. It's not like it was a competition.

"Hey kid, ready to go?" She heard out of the corner of her ear and nodded happily. She stands up, a switch flipping in her as she trots towards the stage.

@Dynamo Pad @Astral Vision @ExplosionMare

Everypony else at the concert could hear the change on the stage, with a new band coming out, looking like they struggled to organize until last minute. Oh boy, this was it.

The next to come out was a happy, trotting Pastel herself, being towered over by the band. She wore a surprisingly nice looking, long, sparkly dress with a a myriad of shades of pink and white; it definitely suited her. She almost looked like an idol; it definitely gave a more flashy look to the filly if anything. She stepped up to the mic and raised her hoof.

"Hihiiii everypony! Sami was super great, but now Pastel Heart is gonna steal your... well, Hearts!"

The familiar voice rang out through the area. This was the moment... This is probably where it all comes crashing down...

...However...

The synthesizer started off the song incredibly smoothly, and the rest of the band soon followed. Pastel herself closed her eyes and smiled as the intro played out. Her eyes shot open, her entire demeanour changing as she started singing, actually incredibly well!:

  Reveal hidden contents

"We're both on holiday,
We've got no plans to make,
Always working,
And it's hurting all the time...
Who knows how long it's been,
Since we've let the spotlight in,
Are you nervous?
We've rehearsed this line for line~

Line for line~

There's nothing wrong with wasting time,
Let's sit back, enjoy the ride!"

(Backup: Ferris wheel is spinning!)

"When I'm alone with you,
And we've got nothing to do,
Such a feeling!
It just keeps on repeating!"

(Ferris wheel is spinning!)

"When I'm alone with you,
I wonder if you can tell...
That I'm reeling!
You've got me spinning like a carousel!"

(Instrumental break as Pastel almost sleepily sways to the music)

"We slow down, we let it slide
A glow and starry eyed,
When the night hits...
I wish it could always be like this

There's nothing wrong with wasting time,
Let's sit back, enjoy the ride!"

(Ferris wheel is spinning!)

When I'm alone with you,
And we've got nothing to do,
Such a feeling!
It just keeps on repeating!

(Ferris wheel is spinning!)

"When I'm alone with you,
I wonder if you can tell...
That I'm reeling!
You've got me spinning like a carousel!"

(Repeats twice more before a sudden stop as she throws a hoof up in the air overly dramatically.)

  Reveal hidden contents

(The original song)

 

Pastels performance was totally different from how she usually is. She sang like a completely different pony. Her voice was on key, high but elegant and poppy, almost like she was doing this for years. Despite her age, she had the aura of of a mare throughout the performance and displayed maturity you wouldn't even think was possible for her. Her personality and demeanor practically did a 180!

After the two made their way into the concert hall, Dynamo was happy to see that he didn't miss Pastel's performance. He and Astral managed to find a seat among the crowd, while waiting for Pastel to begin. As she stepped out onto the stage, Dynamo had to admit that the dress she dressed up made her look like an idol. He watched as the crowd was silent as she spoke, while hoping that she would do well. Once the song played and she began to sing, Dynamo was blown away at how wonderful Pastel was singing. To him, it was like she was still herself, but she was completely different. He wasn't an expert on singing, but it sounded like she had sung for years. She seemed very mature for her age, while her personality and demeanor did a complete turnaround.

7 hours ago, Astral Vision said:

@Pastel-chan @Dynamo Pad

Astral was in awe from what he just witnessed, Pastel was truly magnificent on stage, and her voice was as clear as the shining day. He turned to Dynamo in the seat next to him, whispering into his ear "I bet you're really proud of her." Astral then got out of his seat and quietly made his way backstage, hoping to congratulate Pastel on her incredible performance. Astral heard the songs of two more ponies as he walked past, and could tell there was a lot of talent onstage today. Eventually, Astral found Pastel smiling ear to ear with the others.

"Pastel, I saw your performance, and it was great! Your element must be music, cause I haven't seen talent like that in quite some time, especially from such a young pony."

Dynamo turned to Astral, nodding as he whispered into his ear. "I am and I'm always proud of Pastel. She did a really great job." He watched as Astral got out of his seat, while getting out of his own to follow his friend. He heard a few more ponies perform and he was in awe at how well they sang. Even though he was happy for everyone, he had to admit that he was feeling nervous. He knew he wanted to perform, but he felt nervous that he would make a fool of himself. That, or he wouldn't be good enough to sing. Upon reaching the backstage area, Dynamo found Pastel with Samurai and a few other ponies. "Pastel, that was amazing! Astral makes a really great point. It was like you had the voice of a goddess. You might have a special talent for singing in the future. I mean, did you hear the crowd?" He grinned, happy for his friend's success.

3 hours ago, Samurai Equine said:

@Kronos the Revenant, @Pastel-chan, @ExplosionMare, @Astral Vision, @Dynamo Pad

Samurai is happy to have a happy conversation with his new friends, but also revels at Kronos’s performance. “Marvelous.” When he finishes, applause and cheer roar up loudly for his performance.

However, Samurai has to step aside when he feels something. Finding a private spot, he notices his magic puzzle box going off. It projects a green check mark. “Perfect! Another success.”
When he puts the box away, he notices Astral has joined them. “Pencil, Pastel, could one of you do me a favor and congratulate that stallion that just performed? I want to know more about him, but I have some very important business to tend to.”

Samurai also pulls Astral aside for a moment. “I’m going to ask a big favor of you and Dynamo. Protect the concert. Before I performed, I couldn’t help but sense something dangerous. Whatever it is, I am sure I can handle it. I just don’t want to the town to get suspicious or panicky over anything yet. If we’re lucky, it might nothing.”

Putting his trust in his friends, Samurai takes his leave, teleporting away.

 

Dynamo thought he saw Samurai walking away, but chose not to worry about that as he continued to congratulate everyone else. He looked over at Pencil with a smile. "You were pretty awesome, as well. Astral and I were make our way backstage and we heard you. I hope you can forgive me, but I don't know your name. It would seem almost rude if I can't congratulate someone if I don't know their name." He chuckled, before extending a hoof to Pencil. "By the way, my name is Dynamo Pad, but you can call me Dynamo." He would say, before Samurai had suddenly took his leave by teleporting away. Dynamo extended a hoof out to Samurai to call out to him, but he was too late. He had heard another pony finish their performance on stage, before his ears fell. "I guess I might be up next, but I wanted my friends to be there." I guess I should have said something sooner. I didn't expect Samurai to leave like that." He would say, sighing as he felt disheartened. He looked over towards the clothing rack, but couldn't make heads or tails on what he needed to do. "Do I need to wear a suit, or would my jacket be okay? Would it be possible to get some assistance? Also, how many songs are we even allowed to sing?" His mind raced with questions as his legs started to shake slightly in nervousness. 

Edited March 8, 2020 by Dynamo Pad

[Astral Vision 286]

3 hours ago, Dynamo Pad said:

After the two made their way into the concert hall, Dynamo was happy to see that he didn't miss Pastel's performance. He and Astral managed to find a seat among the crowd, while waiting for Pastel to begin. As she stepped out onto the stage, Dynamo had to admit that the dress she dressed up made her look like an idol. He watched as the crowd was silent as she spoke, while hoping that she would do well. Once the song played and she began to sing, Dynamo was blown away at how wonderful Pastel was singing. To him, it was like she was still herself, but she was completely different. He wasn't an expert on singing, but it sounded like she had sung for years. She seemed very mature for her age, while her personality and demeanor did a complete turnaround.

Dynamo turned to Astral, nodding as he whispered into his ear. "I am and I'm always proud of Pastel. She did a really great job." He watched as Astral got out of his seat, while getting out of his own to follow his friend. He heard a few more ponies perform and he was in awe at how well they sang. Even though he was happy for everyone, he had to admit that he was feeling nervous. He knew he wanted to perform, but he felt nervous that he would make a fool of himself. That, or he wouldn't be good enough to sing. Upon reaching the backstage area, Dynamo found Pastel with Samurai and a few other ponies. "Pastel, that was amazing! Astral makes a really great point. It was like you had the voice of a goddess. You might have a special talent for singing in the future. I mean, did you hear the crowd?" He grinned, happy for his friend's success.

Dynamo thought he saw Samurai walking away, but chose not to worry about that as he continued to congratulate everyone else. He looked over at Pencil with a smile. "You were pretty awesome, as well. Astral and I were make our way backstage and we heard you. I hope you can forgive me, but I don't know your name. It would seem almost rude if I can't congratulate someone if I don't know their name." He chuckled, before extending a hoof to Pencil. "By the way, my name is Dynamo Pad, but you can call me Dynamo." He would say, before Samurai had suddenly took his leave by teleporting away. Dynamo extended a hoof out to Samurai to call out to him, but he was too late. He had heard another pony finish their performance on stage, before his ears fell. "I guess I might be up next, but I wanted my friends to be there." I guess I should have said something sooner. I didn't expect Samurai to leave like that." He would say, sighing as he felt disheartened. He looked over towards the clothing rack, but couldn't make heads or tails on what he needed to do. "Do I need to wear a suit, or would my jacket be okay? Would it be possible to get some assistance? Also, how many songs are we even allowed to sing?" His mind raced with questions as his legs started to shake slightly in nervousness. 

@Dynamo Pad

Astral took notice of the rising fear in Dynamo's eyes, knowing how hard it was to be singled out in a public crowd. Astral decided to help Dynamo not with magic, but with advice.

"Dynamo, remember how I said before that nothing bad could come out of this event for you or Pastel? Well, I meant it. At the end of the day, even if your performance wasn't perfect, would you really need to care so much about what others thought of you? Just focus on your own talent, be the best you can be, cause every performance can be grand if conducted by those who put their hearts into it. Have confidence in yourself, I know Pastel has it in you. But above all else, make sure to have fun!" Astral declared while smiling ear to ear.

[Jack Baker 698]

@Samurai Equine

Raze's eyes narrowed at the sight of the damaged house. He slowly approached it, in case this "evil" or whatever it was happened to be lurking within the wreckage. Nothing. Verifying it was safe, he quickened his pace until he was right in front of the foot of the house. 

He began to inspect some of the damage along the outside walls. From the looks of things, this doesn't seem too recent... he thought while running his hoof along the wall. But man, did this house take one hell of a hit...

[Pastel Heart 6,466]

@Astral Vision

Pastel stood proudly and giggles as Astral appeared and complimented her. She wasn't used to this much praise; having friends was really great.

"Hehe, thanks! Element of Music wouldn't be so bad, though maybe uhh, I'd like Courage more! After defeating a evil dragon lord or something!"

Seems like she was back to normal, aside from still wearing the dress. She looked like a doll.

@ExplosionMare 

"You were super pretty and good too! Like Princess Twilight! If you became a princess I'd gladly be your knight!"

Pastel winked at her. She was fully back in the chuuni zone.

@Dynamo Pad

Seeing Dynamo come in, she jumped up and ran over to hug his leg.

"Hi Dyny! You liked it, right? Have ya fallen for me yet? Mwehe~"

Pastel swayed her tail and looked up, head tilted at the suggestion. It IS a wonder why she was still a blank flank after that; was it more complicated than that? Or maybe she herself hasnt even realized something important. Maybe if her head wasn't in the clouds.

"Hmmm, maybe! This is more something I do for fun though. I'm sure it'll come sometime on this adventure, but if not, that's okay too! Life is an adventure in itself! Also, if you do sing, I'm sure it'll be great!"

@Samurai Equine

Pastel saw Samurai acting funny and glared suspiciously. Was he keeping secrets? And then disappearing like that... weird... Her mind flashed back to yesterday, where something weird may be going on based on what was said. Was it about that? Samurai was her friend so she didnt wanna suspect anything of him... or was there something else going on at the concert himself? Pastel was surprisingly sharp when it came to this stuff. Why were they keeping secrets? Was it because she was a filly? She could help too, she thought... She looked a bit bothered for a bit, but shook off the feeling and decided to keep an eye out for Kronos, like he said to do. She was curious about that pony herself!

Edited March 8, 2020 by Pastel-chan
it keeps happening

[Kronos the Revenant 1,971]

As Kronos left the stage, he packed his instrument and went off the stage. 
 

Food time? one of his voices asked. 
 

Kronos simply smirked and walked towards some of the food that was available. 
 

Not one to be picky, he took sample sizes of whatever was available and then a little extra of what appeared appetizing. As he sat down, his head snapped both ways and his eyes glowed red as he quickly scarfed down the food he just gathered. After voraciously swallowing his food, his head snapped side to side again. He took a deep breath, and gave a sigh of relief. 
 

Ahhh, his voices replied, delicious. Much better. 
 

“Satisfied yet?” Kronos asked himself. 
 

Yessir.

”Good.”

He then got up and looked around. He decided to take a quick scan of the area. He noticed some ponies acting suspicious, but didnt bother with them since he had no quarrel or business with them. Come to think of it, he had no business being there at all. 
 

Well, he thought to himself, might as well have a look around town. 

[Dynamo Pad 11,305]

3 hours ago, Astral Vision said:

@Dynamo Pad

Astral took notice of the rising fear in Dynamo's eyes, knowing how hard it was to be singled out in a public crowd. Astral decided to help Dynamo not with magic, but with advice.

"Dynamo, remember how I said before that nothing bad could come out of this event for you or Pastel? Well, I meant it. At the end of the day, even if your performance wasn't perfect, would you really need to care so much about what others thought of you? Just focus on your own talent, be the best you can be, cause every performance can be grand if conducted by those who put their hearts into it. Have confidence in yourself, I know Pastel has it in you. But above all else, make sure to have fun!" Astral declared while smiling ear to ear.

Dynamo flinched at being called upon, before looking over at Astral. He nodded, but he soon remembered that Astral didn't know. "I didn't get the chance to tell you, but I told Pastel this morning. Back where I came from in Fillydelphia, I had a couple of bullies pick on me for being kind and/or helping others. They thought I could gain their trust and friendship, so they took it upon themselves to rally up every single student. Afterwards, they would just make fun of me for my horn, my lack of magic or my lack of a cutie mark at the time. It's why I was so hesitant to ask who is a friend as I don't really know friendship all that well. I even got upset at Pastel earlier when she was making a simple joke. I still regret reacting in such a way, but I guess with how everything has happened in my past. I'm just worried that it'll all happen again or it'll all come back. I guess it's why I'm still learning on how to take a joke, instead of being very serious all the time." He closed his eyes and sighed. Feeling embarrassed and ashamed of himself, but he knew he had to explain his reason of self doubt.

"I know my mom and dad were there to help me, but I'm not the best when it comes to self confidence. I'm always afraid that I'll mess up, or do something that will cause others to have a reason to treat me differently. I want to show that I can still be myself despite what has happened."

34 minutes ago, Pastel-chan said:

 

 

Seeing Dynamo come in, she jumped up and ran over to hug his leg.

"Hi Dyny! You liked it, right? Have ya fallen for me yet? Mwehe~"

Pastel swayed her tail and looked up, head tilted at the suggestion. It IS a wonder why she was still a blank flank after that; was it more complicated than that? Or maybe she herself hasnt even realized something important. Maybe if her head wasn't in the clouds.

"Hmmm, maybe! This is more something I do for fun though. I'm sure it'll come sometime on this adventure, but if not, that's okay too! Life is an adventure in itself! Also, if you do sing, I'm sure it'll be great!"

He was brought out to his train of thought as he felt Pastel run up to hug his leg. He looked down as he also let Astral's words sink in. "Maybe...you're probably right. It seems like Pastel believes in me and with what you said. It sounds like you believe in me too, Astral." He took a deep breath and sighed as a small smile crept upon his face. "T-Thank you. It really means a lot to hear you both say that. I know I'm scared and my vocal range isn't the best, but I have to at least try. If I don't, then I might miss out on so many fun things in life. My talent is video games, but singing is just as fun. So, I guess I just need to do the best that I can."

He looked back down at Pastel, who was still attached to his front leg. At the mention of fallen for her, he gave a sheepish smile and chuckled. "Do you mean falling down on the ground in front of you, or the other kind of falling in love? I mean, that's flattering and all, but aren't you still a filly? I mean, I'm 19 years old, so I don't know if that would work." He knew pondering on the idea would in turn sound like he was stalling from singing. "Thanks again, Pastel. I'm glad you have confidence in me. Plus, you're right. You have all the time you have, before getting your cutie mark." He pulled Pastel into a hug, before looking back up at Astral. "So, should I get a suit or just go with my gaming jacket? I just wanted to make sure because I'm ready to go up next."

[ExplosionMare 18,062]

@Dynamo Pad

A blue stallion that Pencil recalled seeing before approached her and extended a hoof in greeting. She politely stood up to take it and replied,

“Thank you! I’m Pencil Pouch, by the way. It’s nice to meet you,”

She began to sit down again, but she noticed the blue stallion, or Dynamo Pad as he called himself, was trembling violently. He must be the next pony to preform on stage, she figured. Pencil gave him a sympathetic look, knowing full well how it felt to will oneself to preform.

“Hey, it’s gonna be alright. There’s no need to overthink it. I’m sure whatever you decide to sing up there will be great. Take it from a pony who isn’t used to singing on a stage, either. Just think about the song and what it means to you rather than how good you preform,” she said reassuringly.