Derailing worries

  The train ride from Canterlot is a quiet one, the party using the time to sleep and collect their thoughts. Silver Spoon is pretty excited, but slowly her enthusiasm visibly wanes and she starts fretting. It's not long before Viola notices and takes her role as mentor seriously, moving to settle by her. "What's wrong, Silver Spoon? You were so happy and excited all the way here." She regards her curiously. "I even sent Eris ahead to get the ball rolling on the party earlier." Said artifact is settling back in her mane, her message delivered.

 Silver Spoon struggles with what to say, not sure how she will view it. "I'm worried about my best friend." She sees Viola blink in surprise and confusion. : I know... Diamond Tiara isn't the most well-liked, but to me, she's been there for the most part and I was the same for her. I'm honestly terrified how she'll react to all this. My cutie mark, and a dream that she doesn't really have a part in."

  Viola is silent for a bit as she takes in her student's concern. "You're afraid she's going to do something even more stupid than Discord because she thinks she's losing you?" At Silver's nod, she sighs. "Given what I've seen of her and how well you know her, it's something to try and head off, agreed." She closes her eyes. "One option, not that I think she'll take it is to offer to have her join you."

  Silver just stares at her for a long moment before bursting into giggles. "Oh Luna, no, just no! She'd NEVER go for that." She laughs. "She believes herself the leading role in any situation, the one in charge." She sobers up a bit. "She'd never let herself be mentored by anypony that can't help her achieve that."

  Viola winces. "I certainly woul--Ouch!" She gives her student a stunned look, having just been kicked by her.

  "Don't even start. My mother wouldn't have picked you if she didn't recognize quality. You ARE a leader." She gestures to everypony in the group. "They follow your lead whether you realize it or not." Silver fumes before she sighs. "Having said that, I have to take back what I just said. I think that's a grand idea, you mentoring her." Vi's jaw drops. "Yes, I'm serious and going off what YOUR mentor told you, to help others blossom."

 "I don't... but... I'm going to be doing some dangerous stuff, whether I like it or not, and it's going to find me. I can't protect.." Viola tries to resist.

  "Yes, you can. I trust you after what I saw at the lake." Silver reassures her. "And you won't be alone." She indicates Fiddlesticks and Blacklin as the train's whistle sounds, indicating their arrival at Ponyville. "Now come on, teacher." She stands up and secures her new instrument. "Also... thank you for talking and taking it seriously."

  Vi smiles and nods. "I'm your mentor, it's what I'm supposed to do." The others smile at that as they join the crowd filing out of the train.... and Pinkie is there bouncing excitedly. She just grins and waves for them to follow before bouncing off. "Ah, it seems she did get the message." She smiles. "Well, onward to the party? We'll worry about your friend when the time comes." Silver nods to her and the group heads follows after the cheerful pink pony.

Revisiting the Music Man

  A little later, a bell jangles as Viola, Silver Spoon, and Octavia enter the music shop. This prompts Radiant Note to look up in surprise, recognizing their voice. "You're back a bit early, aren't you? This was supposed to be all weekend."

  Viola laughs. "We had...complications, you might say. Fortunately, they turned out to be good ones." She turns and gestures at somepony, and they enter, showing themselves to be Sonata. "This is Sonata Dusk, a songstress whose natural power is like my own. She'll be my teacher for the time being."

  Sonata's head whips around in surprise as she boggles at her, not expecting Viola to make this kind of offer. "Are you, like, for real with that?"

  "Yes, I think, well, you wouldn't feel right just being the one gaining all the experience, would you?" Vi tells her, the bemused stallion watching the exchange with interest.

  "N-no, but.. I know I sound like a broken record, but the level of trust, like, totally baffles me." Sonata ends up repeating.

  "My dear, you and Viola are two peas in a pod, and this amuses me greatly." Radiant Note cuts in smoothly. "She has trouble believing in her own worth, much as you seemingly do so." He grins widely at that. "So it makes me very happy to see her doing something like this as it means she has a chance to push past her own mentality while she's shoving you through yours." He ignores the cross look Vi is giving him and snorts. "Ah ha! I certainly see more proof that she is growing past it. The little one she brought in has a beautiful cutie mark now. My congratulations to you, Silver Spoon."

  Silver Spoon is bouncing in place now as the attention switches to her. "T-Thank you, thank you! It was amazing! Those two were beautiful together, even if it seemed too short a song. It touched me, and I REALLY wanted to be able to do the same thing in my own way. They even got that spooky conductor and his marefriend to give up his reward." She blinks as the stallion stumbles and crashes to the ground in his shock. "Um... Mr. Radiant.. are you all right?"

  "You... you..." Radiant's jaw is hanging open as he tries to process what he's hearing.

  Viola smiles gently as she produces one of the prized instruments that Still Waters had been known to have, and her smile actually grows in true pride. "Yes. This is my first real achievement, something I DID do on my own skill."

  Fiddlesticks, who can still hear things even from outside, opens her mouth to object and gets whacked by Beauty Brass. The brunette gets an offended look and ignores it while shaking her head, hissing at the country pony. "This is a milestone for her, let her have this one as she finally admitted she has worth on her own terms." This gets a wide-eyed look from the bluenette who stops her looks of protest.

  Radiant gets to his feet, beaming with pride now. "That.. Superbly done, my dear, superbly done. I'm so very proud of you. All of you." He steps over to the presented instrument and gazes at it in awe. "Yes.. yes I recognize these." He clears his throat and turns to Silver Spoon. "Consider your trombone yours, free of charge." He pauses. "You can pay me back by following through on your new dream to the best of your ability and let this old stallion enjoy your future performances, young filly." Silver just squees and hugs him for it.

  "That's a promise! I don't want to let my mistress and mother down!" Silver exclaims, beaming brightly and proudly.

  Radiant turns his attention back to Viola. "And you.. Viola, keep pushing forward. You're on the right track. Focus on helping others blossom, and you'll find yourself becoming all the better for it. I think that's where you'll find your self-esteem. Your music is meant to inspire and lift others up." He gestures to Sonata. “She and Silver BOTH are a good example of this.”

  Viola has a strange look on her face and just nods, though they're jarred out of the mood by a cry of exasperation.

  "FINALLY somepony gets through to her." This and the earlier cry had come from her while her twin just hoofpalms in embarrassment. Radiant Note and the others break out in laughter. 'What? It's the truth!" She makes a face at that.

  "Too true, perhaps, but for some it just takes time to break through the walls." Radiant snorts. "Now then... I think the moment of levity and sage advice is well and truly past. This old stallion thanks you for coming by and sharing your success, but he does have a business to run." He smiles. "And you have a celebration to plan, I'm sure." He indicates Silver Spoon. "The young filly seems quite eager, so run along now!" He laughs when Silver gives him another hug and runs out of the shop at his urging. "You stay in touch. I'll be waiting eagerly for further news!" He bids them farewell as Vi packs up the instrument and nuzzles him tenderly before they move out. "They grow up so fast." He says quickly as they vanish around the corner.

Plans, Detours, and Foreshadows

 Dead silence continues to linger, even after the ghost and his love vanish beneath the waves. After a long moment, the silence is broken by Viola Strum bursting into laughter. At their puzzled look, she decides to explain if only briefly. "More expectations." She raises a hoof before her sister can interject. "It's just bemusement at my life, but at least it's something I truly earned for myself this time." That straighten draws a startled laugh from Beauty Brass, causing Viola to smile slightly. Her horn glows as her magic envelops the handles of the instrument cases and they rise, following her as she trots over to the giddy Silver Spoon. "Of course, the bigger winner is Silver Spoon here with her precious cutie mark." She smooths out the filly's mane with a hoof. Silver tries to swat away the offending hoof, embarrassed slightly by the action.

 "Ha, darn tootin, sis!" Fiddles whoops at that, trotting in place. "Let's get back to the cabin and celebrate!" She points there, but blinks when Viola shakes her head. "Eh...? Why not?"

 Viola points to the cabin. "Let's pack up and get started back down the mountain first before we talk any further." Fiddles starts to object, but Octavia bumps her shoulder and mouths no. The fiddler lets out a huff but backs down.

 The happy group retreats to the cabin and tidy up after packing, before they're soon on their way down the mountain. Blacklin takes wing  to scout out inbound trouble, returning or otherwise. It's not long before Beauty Brass speaks up. "Mind telling us why we're rushing out of here? We still have a good part of the weekend. I can certainly understand Fiddles' irritation."

 "One, it's a bit too dangerous here right now with one close call as it was." Lyra cuts in before Vi can answer. "Two, a party here would definitely draw in more than just some music." She taps her chin in thought. "Three, we can hold off till we get back to Ponyville because well, we got three big things worth celebrating." She points at Sonata, the instrument cases, and Silver Spoon here.

 "Certainly valid on all three points, my dear." Octavia chimes in. "Every filly deserves to have that special cuteceneara with their friends around, after all." She nods to Silver Spoon. "Plus a welcoming party for young Sonata here. To top it off, Viola and her achieving a century-old challenge? They deserves to be celebrated for such a personal achievement of their own merit."

 Sonata stares at them in disbelief. "You're serious." At the mares' nods, she just boggles before something else registers. "For that matter, you don't even seem surprised or worried about what I am?" She actually seems worried.

 Lyra throws a hoof around her neck. "Some of us already knew, and even with that, I don't give a hoot. We'll deal with your past if that comes back around, but as far as we're concerned, you have doubts about what you did back then, and that's enough for me." The others nod in agreement.

 "We're pretty forgiving and you haven't even tried anything with us yet."  Beauty Brass adds, causing Sonata to shake before wiping her face. Viola taps Eris and and indicates she should cut the feed for now. The little one nods before the scene fades out.

 When the feed comes back on, the group is back in Canterlot and taking a detour through the residential section, much to Silver Spoon's confusion. "Miss Viola? Why are we detouring now? We were going to the music store then home!" She's almost.. ALMOST whining in frustration.

 Lyra giggles. "Take it easy there, we're just checking on an old friend of mine." She's glancing at the mailboxes as they pass. "She dropped out of contact about a month ago. I thought she was busy with one of her new spells, but... usually she'd have come up for air by now and sent us updates on her life, plus with her sister Trixie in Ponyville, I figured she'd want to know." She stops short and stares. The others turn to see what stunned her and see a house that's starting to look a bit rundown. "What in Luna's name?"

 Beauty Brass tilts her head. "Not sure what the problem is. You said she got a little caught up in her work, didn't you?"

 "But to let things go this badly? She at least had yard workers!" Lyra groans. "It's like she did a full reversion to what she was like BEFORE she got her confidence!" She marches up to the door and bangs on it. "Moondancer! Are you in there?! There's no newspapers!" She pauses and her magic opens up the mailbox. "AND there's no mail, so I KNOW you're in there!" There's dead silence for a good long while and finally Lyra huffs, spotting a flash of purple out of the corner of the window.

 Sonata speaks up. "I think she's in there?" Her eyes widen as she thinks she sees something else. 'Her? Why is.. was that .. her? No. You're just seeing things.' Sonata frowns. "She's ignoring you?"

  Lyra frowns as she considers before she stomps her hoof. "Fine. Maybe you're upset about Twilight not showing up for your party? You probably think her work took priority over friendships?" She paces back and forth in front of the door. "I think you're wrong about that. You're two peas in a pod, you know. When you're focused on something, everything else just fades out. Twiley's just in a long term project, that's all." She pauses before muttering. "Though she can't even remember the one living near her."

 The others share a look at this, Beauty Brass opening her mouth to object, but Viola's hoof on her shoulder stops her. "Lyra doesn't get worked up that often, so this must be serious. She values her friendships highly, you know." Brass winces and nods.

 Lyra shakes it off and thumps the door. "However, that doesn't excuse YOU for shutting everypony else out though, including your sisters! Things are strained enough with Trixie feeling inadequate and stuck in your shadow. Now you're ignoring her and your other friends! You're being no better!  Chew on that, why don't you?" She huffs and marches down the walkway and pauses at the gate, before glancing back. "I better get a letter from you or I'll be back with reinforcements. Oh, and for the record, Trixie's finally started getting the friendships and respect as a result of her own merits. The least you can do is acknowledge her efforts. You're the one she admires the most after all!" She deflates after all that and still getting nothing. "Come on. Looks like this was a waste of time." Lyra just hangs her head and takes off, leading the others to the music store.

A Song from the heart

(Mod’s Note: Oh man, I am back! I don’t know who is even still paying attention, but... I finally broke through my writer’s block after nearly a year....again. To those of you still here, thanks for not unfollowing. I should hopefully be far more consistent now that I’ve got it back.)    The two mares look at each other in surprise for a long minute before Sonata just shrugs. She settles back, looking on expectantly as Viola rises to the challenge. Vi assumes her stance and after a deep breath, breaks into a rather harsh melody, catching the blue-coated singer by surprise. Sonata shakes her head and listens a moment before humming and breaking into song.

(Sonata)

My friends I've not been honest, Intentions far from the best. I came seeking treasure To take back what I lost.

A creature of the deep, that is what I am We sing our song steeped in disharmony But yet I have seen, traveling through the land Possibility that there could be so much more.

(Viola)

A path I can understand, a road I've started traveling I worry if our power should be honed or left alone A burden that we share which can either mend or rend People always pushing towards one goal or another

A mare of untold potential, I'm told that's what I am Everyone thinks I'm special, they tell where I can go But is that truly what I want, to just go with the flow? The choice is mine, but am I truly free?

(Chorus)

I want to be more than expectations Not to yield to others' suggestions. Want to reach for my own dreams and desires.

A creature born to cause strife and division A mare to be molded to her father's machination We just want to rise above it all.

(End)

 The two break off, shaking off the daze as they frown. Vi looks at her instrument then at Sonata. "We're revisiting that song again. It doesn't feel complete, but..I don't have the words yet."

 "That's because you're at the start of the journey." Fiddles can't help herself and skips forwards to confront them. "Hold on just a moment, sis. Ah have to say my piece. There's a whole different tune to the hopes we've all placed on you." Fiddles tilts her head, considering her next words."It's okay to doubt, Ah know how it is to be hit with everypony's ideals. Heh, you need to take your own advice with that, you know? Thing is, anything we ask of you, we gave you that choice. Yes, even Celestia, she would have understood if you'd declined the task she'd given you. Besides, even if you fail, we'll be there to pick you up and help you keep going." Lyra, Octavia, and the others others nod in agreement. "

 Lyra speaks up next, looking at Sonata. "I don't know what you've done before, but I don't think you're that way now. If you're that unsure if you can, you're welcome to come back with us. We'll put you up and let you have a taste of our lifestyle." Sonata has a stunned look on her face and it's all she can do to nod.

 "Bravo, my dears, bravo!" Still Waters reminds them of his presence as he settles down in front of them. "That is what I had hoped to see. I'm very nearly convinced you are the one to inherit my legacy." Vi looks surprised to hear this before there's a squee from off to the side, drawing the attention of everypony to the bouncing filly.

 "My cutie mark! My cutie mark!" Silver's happy cry alerts them to the presence of her new mark, the slider of her trombone overlaid by a bass clef. "Still Waters was right! That was incredible! That.. I want to learn play music like that, show that kind of passion!" She runs over to Viola and beams up at her. "I wasn't sure before, but now I want to do this, I want to make this a big part of my life."

 Still Water pauses as he takes in the group congratulating the little filly, and comes to a decision. "It is decided! All of you, together you can see my dream come true I believe. With Viola Strum as your leader or not, you will go far, reawaken the magic of song in ponies' hearts. As such, my legacy is yours." All around him instruments start appearing, the mares gasping as they recognize them as the same ones that appear around the academy. Each one floats to their respective new owners, with the unused ones settling down by Viola. "Find yourself kindred spirits for the rest of those. I leave it in your capable hands." He bows deeply. "Thank you.. and when you have found your peace, I wish for you to come back and play for me and my beloved." He smiles warmly, the kappa-like water horse bobbing her head as well. "Farewell for now." The pair retreat and soon vanish back under the surface of the lake, leaving a speechless group in their wake.

Out of the Watery depths...

  The next morning dawns and the smell of coffee coax most of the occupants out of their various sleeping spots. Vi looks particularly wiped out as she and Sonata are leaning against each other while waiting for the mugs to be put in front of them.

 “Looks like someponies didn’t go to sleep when they should have.” Fiddlesticks teases her sister with a smile. “Was the talking that engaging..?” She looks at the sleepy pair curiously.

 “I guess it was, sis.” Vi cracks a huge yawn before sipping at her fresh mug. “Sonata and I had a lot to talk about honestly. We didn’t even realize it was that late till Ponyflea told us good night!”

 “Well… *Yawn* At least the talk was good for both of us.” Sonata chimes in. “I told her a bit about my background and life and she shared her story.” Sonata looks conflicted about something briefly, doubt showing before it’s gone in the blink of an eye.

 Octavia looks between the two of them before casting a worried look at Fiddlesticks. “Well, I’m certainly glad you’re getting along well. Viola really does need friends outside of her family, Sonata. So if you would be hers, I think we all would like that.”

 Sonata blinks at her questioningly before looking at Viola. It takes her a few minutes to actually work through that before realizing why that was asked. “You… don’t have friends?”

 Fiddlesticks snorts. “Not really that many. At least not many that she can count on in a pinch. I think the lot of us here is all that she has. Though I think she’s starting to gain them in Ponyville.”

 Octavia sets out the available food. “Enough of that, let’s all eat and head out to practice, all right?” She shushes them and settles in to eat herself. 

Small talk?

 Eris appears on the coffee table quietly and settles down, thankfully having gone unnoticed. She just wants to listen to what’s going on around her. A quick glance shows her Blacklin hasn’t returned yet and Silver is animatedly talking to Beauty Brass about the lesson. Lyra and Octavia are quietly conversing on the couch with Fiddles, and the hushed nature of the discussion is enough to make her curious. She flicks an ear and focuses on that particular conversation, betting it’s regarding the now confirmed Siren.

 “I must confess I’m a little concerned about the rest of this mini-vacation. It’s supposed to be a relaxing get-away and hopefully a successful bid at Still Waters’ legend.” Octavia murmurs, looking at her sister and friend. “Instead we have an unexpected guest that’s slightly suspicious given the brief meeting you and Vi had, and then a monster shows up.” She pauses at the deadpan look she gets from the two. “Granted, the latter was expected due to where we are.” The grey pony shakes her head. “Still, can you at least assure me that this isn’t going to blow up into a major ordeal, sis?”

Heart to Heart

 Sonata's pleading explanation rocks Vi back in her chair, leaving the violist silent. It's all she can do to take in the teary-eyed pony before her, wondering why she's that anxious for what she's suggesting to be true. Eventually, Vi shakes off her daze and relocates from the chair to the bed, drawing the teary pony into an embrace. “Sonata? What...? I mean, why is this so important to you?”

 Sonata leans into Vi’s offered hug, grateful for the gesture as she wipes away her tears. “Do you know what it's like?” She stares off into nothing as she speaks. “Having power and then having it all stripped away? I've never been a leader. I'm not smart enough to be. I've always followed, always done whatever I had to for the sake of my survival and power.”

 Vi turns her head slightly to gaze at her. 'That means there's others, but then I knew that already.' She considers the question. “Well, I know what it's like to feel helpless in the face of those far more powerful.” She shakes her head. “I've never had power TO wield, despite what you might think.”

 Sonata frowns, hearing that. “It's not just the powerlessness.” She bites her lip. “It’s your culture, everything we've seen. It's so...” She trails off and shrugs helplessly.

Shaken not Stirred.

 The noise of the door slamming draws the attention of the cellist, prompting her to leave the living room and enter the kitchen to check on the situation. On seeing the shaken pair, she has to ask. “What happened to the two of you? You look like you had the life scared out of you.” Octavia looks concerned, and her expression only worsens when she spots Eris shivering in Lyra’s mane. “Oh dear, is there a monster out there or something?”

 “Oh we definitely know it’s a monster.” Sonata speaks up, glancing at the door. “We’re totally fine, too. Thankfully that Blacklin guy buzzed it. It forgot about us and chased after him instead. I think that was the plan, to get it away from us and the cabin.”  Eris finally recovers enough to hop over to the table and takes on Humanflea’s appearance once again. “How secure IS the cabin? If it’s just wood, then it won’t last long to an angry centicore.” He honestly looks worried, glancing towards the door as if said beast was on their heels.

Don’t get too comfy...

  A little later Eris pops outside while the sounds of various notes being played start floating out of the cabin. She lands on the railing and looks around for the suspected Siren and the harpist, knowing they’re somewhere in the area. She spots them taking a walk around the lake and pops over to settle in Lyra’s mane. Lyra blinks and glances up, feeling the light weight of her friend’s imp. 

  ‘Huh, guess she wasn’t settling for watching Silver have her lesson?’ Lyra chuckles softly as she trots beside Sonata, no real conversation going on. The normally chatty earth pony has been quiet, choosing instead to stroll along the lake’s shore. Lyra glances at her but opts not to say anything till Sonata initiates things. 

   On the far side of the lake is where Sonata breaks her silence. “What’s she like? Your friend, I mean.” The earth pony looks pensive and doubtful. “I know we’re going to talk about that tomorrow, but I want to know about her. Why are you all friends? Despite having those powers, why is she not hated or feared?”

Stew isn’t the only thing being chewed on, y’know.

 Bowls are set, stew doled out, and soon enough everpony is partaking of the simple but delicious meal. Even little Eris gets a bowl and she's gobbling it down like no tomorrow, much to Viola's amusement. "Easy there, Eris. I know it's tasty, but you're going to choke if you don't slow it down!" Vi shakes her head, giggling.

 Sonata looks on curiously. "You said she's an artifact, but she looks and acts so real!" She spoons some stew into her mouth and chews thoughtfully before swallowing and continuing. "If you hadn't said anything, I wouldn't have known." She pauses and giggles. "Size aside, but then again, magic can do some pretty crazy things. “ Her smile fades out.

 Lyra grins. “Oh we know what you mean. The last 3 months or so have been chock full of craziness.” She indicates Eris. “That one is just an example, you know.” She indicates the scar on Vi’s cheek. “Vi can attest to quite a few of the things she’s been dead center of.” She shakes her head. “I’ve only been on the fringe, and frankly, that’s good enough for me!”  Sonata takes a closer look at Vi and blinks, seeing the damage and tilts her head. “Well, in my case, it was a bearded geezer that bothered me which certainly proved that. “ She grumbles. “He's the reason why my family heirloom is powerless."  Several shocked looks are briefly shared before they revert to neutral looks, focusing on Sonata. Thankfully a distraction is soon had in the form of Eris.

Cabin Crazy.

 It's a chatty group that files into the cabin, curious eyes looking this way and that. They spread out through the place to explore, depositing food and luggage in appropriate spots. Soon enough though, they reconvene in the living room and settle around in a loose circle. Octavia is the first to speak up. "Well, I suppose now that we're settled in, we can open up with music, hmm? Oh!" She stops as Eris pops out of Viola's mane and lands on the table in the center, spooking Sonata with her sudden appearance.

 "Gak! What the hay?" The vocalist blinks in shock from where she'd perched before squealing. "Ooh she's adorable! So tiny and cute!" She gets down and leans in to peer at Eris. "But.. what is she exactly?" She gets booped in response when she gets too close.

 Vi laughs. "She's a special living artifact that acts as a connection to other realities, I suppose. I use her to send questions and view other ponies, though by the same token, they can watch me and others and ask questions back." She sees Eris grinning and shifting to a two-tailed fox. "Like so. Hello Vahn, you have a question?"

A surprise addition

  The group of musicians plus one potential quickly set off on the trail, though it's not long before Eris makes herself known on top of Vi's head. She shifts to Humanflea's now familiar form and speaks up. "So is it off to the cabin or is there another pit stop?"

  Vi tilts her head up. "Ah, Humanflea, you're pretty much a constant companion along with Ponyflea, aren't you? I wonder if you're so busy watching everypony else, that's why we don't see any feed from your end?" She has a teasing edge to her words though as she follows it up. "To answer your question though, there's no pit stops for us. We're headed straight down to the cabin in the woods." She pauses as a thought occurs. "Though that brings up a point. I'm fairly certain you lot don't want to see us trekking for a few hours. Eris, why don't you cut the connection for a bit till we actually arrive hmm?"

   Eris considers it before nodding before smacking her forehead and shifting back to Humanflea. He then hops over to the little filly before asking his question. "Silver, now that you picked an instrument do you already have any songs in mind you'd like to learn?" He then shifts to Ponyflea who chips in with his own.

Hitting a high note.

  Viola keeps her smile up as she walks over to Silver Spoon and Radiant Note. "How is it going?" She watches Silver Spoon scowl in frustration as she sets the clarinet down.

  Silver Spoon finally huffs and stomps her hooves as she gets down. "Terrible! This is ridiculous, Miss Strum! I'm not a Note as you say." She pauses. "...What... do you mean by that? You just meant somepony with a musical cutie mark right?" She's treated to the sight of Viola and Radiant sharing a significant glance. "Right?"

  "Mm. Such an interesting question, child." Radiant Note hums as he cleans the clarinet and stows it gently, thinking about how to answer the question. "Simple yet complex in nature."

  Viola tilts her head. "Perhaps it's better to start with an example.. or rather the only example we have right now. We talked about Still Waters on the way over here, Radiant Note."

  "Ah ha! Of course. Quite right, Viola." Radiant pauses. "Mm. Though he's not quite the only pony out there." He shakes his head and smiles. "I can name two others as well. I believe you know them both in passing at the very least. Coloratura and Octavia Melody."

  Viola looks surprised at him. "What do you..." Realization dawns on her. "Oh of course!"

  Silver mutters before stomping her foot again. "Would you two stop going around me and actually explain?!" She shakes her head. "I know those two names! The Countess is a really big up-and-coming star and Octavia is Miss Viola's sister!

  Radiant Note nods, chuckling at her annoyance, before the latter part registers. "What??" His gaze swivels around to Viola in surprise. "What in blazes did I miss, young lady? Apparently more than just you returning to the limelight occurred in Ponyville, I gather."

  Viola smiles sadly. "Well, I did vanish on all of you without warning, didn't I? My parents all but disavowed me. It's why I left. I was fortunate enough to find Fiddlesticks at Ponyville and she claimed me as her sister. By proxy that includes Octavia. We made it official last time I was here for the unveiling and ball."

  Radiant lets out a low whistle. "You really did get put through a wringer, but it seems you've come out all the stronger for it." He shakes his head before turning back to Silver Spoon. "Well then, let's get your question answered. The simple answer is talent, plain as that. You've listened to Coloratura's music, you know just how good she is. The same goes for Octavia's music. She plays music and plays it masterfully, even when it comes to those created by Still Waters." He stares at Viola for a long moment before shaking his head, opting not to speak his mind just yet on that.

  Silver blinks. "But there's lots of great musicians and the Countess is just one of many out there making it big. She's not the only one I listen to."

  Viola giggles. "Remember how he said it was simple yet complex? Well, here comes the complex part." She clears her throat before continuing. "You're certainly right, Silver Spoon. There ARE a lot of musicians out there, and pop singers galore, but what set these two apart is passion and drive." She closes her eyes and thinks back to her school days. "I tell you, when you hear them sing and play, there's something in it that just resonates with your whole being."

  "In short, they don't just go through the motions, they put their heart and soul into it, so that the message of the song rings out and moves you." He smiles. "When you hear Coloratura sing, don't you get swept up in it, able to see a story unfolding in your imagination?"

  Silver blinks at him before thinking. "Her earliest songs, yes." This gets looks of confusion from both of them. "What? Later ones don't have it."

  "That.. doesn't quite sound right, but not important at the moment." Radiant pushes on. "You are getting the idea though right..?" Silver thinks about it and nods.  

  "I think so." Silver Spoon stares at them, thinking a bit before she walks over to a trombone. "You know.. Hearing that makes me want to try and reach a level like that with whatever I'm doing. It sounds.. awesome, actually." She picks up the trombone, on her hind legs now and wobbling as she balances herself. "I'm going to keep trying now till I find something that clicks for me. "Now how do I...?"

  Radiant chuckles as he guides her through it and when she plays, it's a loud clear note that rings out. "There you go! That was a solid sound right there if I ever heard one!"

  "Yes! I felt that!" Silver pushes and pulls the slider, getting a feel for it. "It's a little awkward, but it doesn't really bother me much. I think... I think this is it!"

  Radiant Note claps his hooves. "Excellent! Marvelous! Since this is Viola who's taking care of you, I'll offer a bargain price for a month's trial. See if this is truly meant for you, all right?"

  Silver beams at him. "All right. I'm sure Mother will be happy to cover this. I think she wanted me to take a real interest in something for a while." She carefully sets it down in its case and smiles. Meanwhile Viola is gathering up music books and instructions for them.

  "Of course. Of course." Radiant Note ambles over to the cashier, taking note of what Viola's picked up and rings up the order. "By the by, I believe I heard you mention something about ghosts. Does that mean you're trying your hoof at claiming Still Water's legacy?" On seeing Viola's nod, he hums. "I was actually wondering when you mares would take a stab at that. I'm rather interested to hear the results, because I have a good feeling in my bones about you lot. I'm willing to wager on one of you walking away with the prize, especially you. You bet your life on your music and lived to tell about it!"

  "Now Radiant Note, flattery is going to get you nowhere. What I did was nothing miraculous, and you know it, it was sheer desperation, and I was beaten." Viola dismisses it, Silver staring as she hears this. She forks over the bits for the supplies. "ON that note, I will stop by and let you know how it goes, all right?" She floats the case out with her and trots out with Silver Spoon, making her way to the city gates. The little filly trots beside her, lost in her thoughts, taking a glance at her new mentor now and then.

  It's not long before they arrive, and a call grabs their attention. "VIola! Silver Spoon! We're over here, ready to go!" Lyra is excitedly waving a hoof to guide them. "Great! It looks like Silver Spoon found something?" She grins at the filly's enthusiastic nod. "Then hang on, because we're off, and we're going to show you some awesome playing once we get there as a warm-up." The mint unicorn cheers as the others just shakes their heads at her enthusiasm, before setting off for their destination. Mod Note; I have no excuses. I fell out of it again and getting back into the swing of writing was not as easy as falling off a log. Now I’m going to try and keep this up, but I’ve said that before. ^-^; Ah well, all I can do is try. To those of you who didn’t unfollow and notice me.. I’m back! Thanks for your patience!

Overthinking it, yep.

   Viola shakes the thoughts loose and watches Silver wander around before her focus is interrupted by an older silver-blue stallion. “Well now, here’s a face I never expected to see grace my store again after that concert. Hello Viola Strum.”   “! Radiant Notes! I didn’t know you were here.. usually you let your assistant run the store!” Viola turns and regards the silver-blue stallion with affection. “Still  the top choice I hope?”   “Of course, my reputation isn’t going anywhere, you know that.” He grins widely. “Though to hear the gossip, seems like you’ve managed to upset the apple cart again.” He looks her scars over. “Though did you have to do it quite so... painfully?” He shudders. “There’s easier ways of catching the spotlight, you know.”

Music to whose ears?

  With Silver Spoon calmed down over their destination, the discussions settle into plans for the stopover in Canterlot. Eventually they decide to go their own way and meet up at the entrance to the city for next part of the trip later.

  Viola takes charge of Silver Spoon’s suitcase as they head out for a music shop she knows of. “Welcome to Canterlot, Silver Spoon, home of the elite but not so sweet.” She tries her best to keep the sarcasm out of her voice as they start down the street.    “I’ve been here a few times on trips with my mother. She and I bond on these times, away from the influence of Diamond Tiara and her mother. Usually we meet with her friend Fancypants and his fiancee too. She has dealings with them.”   “You know one of the most influential nobles in Canterlot?” Viola looks surprised. “You DO have connections.. though with a name like Fortune Favors, I suppose your mom WOULD have to be no less impressive to match her name.” 

“Do calm down, dear.”

Fiddlesticks shakes her head. "Now calm down there, Silver Spoon. Ah reckon this ghost is friendly despite the story Lyra just spooked ya with."

Silver shivers. "Now why do you say that? You heard her!"

"Heh. Ain't nopony ever died from that fer one. Two, there's another tale that Ah know is real, and Ah suspect belongs to ol' Still Waters as well. Y'see, things can get pretty nasty at times, between the snobs, the tests, and the pressure to succeed."

"If you ain't a diamond like yer friend, you might find yourself at the breaking point, ready to jes' give it all up" Fiddles sighs and removes her hat. "At that point, when yer' at your lowest, y'just might find yourself haunted."

Silver is leaning forward at this point, curious where this is going. "Eurrgh. That's just as bad!" She receives a smirk in response.

"Now hold on there. Ah didn't say by what yet." There's a twinkle in her eyes when Fiddles looks up. "Instruments, more than a few just floating about under nopony's command."

"What? That's it? That's not spooky." Silver comments. "Startling, but not.."

"It is when they start playing, and gets you caught up in whatever song and mood they happen to be in." Fiddles tilts her head. "Especially when they play pieces that normally nopony can ever get quite right."

Lyra blinks. “Oh yeah, I forgot that's a thing that happens." She pauses. "Wait.. How are you connecting it to Still Waters? Everypony at the academy knows about those instruments, and a search has been made to find out where they come from, but.."

"Ah put two and two together after experiencing it for myself... and then hearing Still Water's legend. The stallion was known for his passionate music that seemed to stir ponies, right?" Fiddles explains. "when ya got instruments that play his songs properly.."

Lyra frowns. "YOU were...? Wait.. was this about the time Viola...?"

Fiddlesticks nods. "Ah found myself outside her door by the time the song was done and she was opening the door to discover who was making all that music." She glances at her sister. "We got to talking after that, and well... we became good friends. We started helping each other and just hanging out y'know? Vent over family and mean peers and all."

Silver stares. "Oh.. so you're saying that the ghost is harmless, despite the tale..? The ghostly instruments are proof of this? At least you think it is?"

Fiddles nods. "Ah think so, besides, if we thought it was dangerous, we wouldn't be going anywhere near it. Ah see enough danger what with the timber wolves."

"So stop worrying and look forward to hearing some great music." Lyra grins. "I'm sure you'll have fun."

"Now that gives me an idea." Viola murmers. "I wonder if we shouldn't see if any instrument agrees with you, Silver Spoon."

Silver Spoon blinks. "Pardon me, Miss Strum?" She shakes her head, rubbing her ear as if she's hearing things.

"I said that right." Viola giggles at her reaction. "I may take you to a store in Canterlot while we kill time." She nods, thinking about it. "Yes, let you try to play, see if any tickle your fancy. After all your mom did suggest you try new things."