☭

Vinyl sighed heavily and plopped right on the couch next to me in a rather over-exaggerated and lazy manner.  Her head rested on my lap as she looked up to me expectingly.  I rolled my eyes, marked the page I am on, and set the book I was reading down on the end table.  I looked down to Vinyl.  "I take it there's something wrong, dear?"  I asked.

"Oh really?  I haven't noticed."  She snapped back.

Yeesh, what's crawling up her rump?  "Where did that come from?"

Vinyl rubbed her eyes.  "Augh, sorry.  Just been really irritated lately."

I instinctively started to stroke her mane.  "What's the matter?"

I swear I heard Vinyl purr in response.  Her head lightly pushed into my hoof, as if subconsciously wanting more.  "Two words, and they rhyme with 'my mother'."

I smiled.  I know she might be a bit aggravated, but it is always still fun to toy with her.  "Is it fried butter?"

"Close, but no.  It's actually my mother."

"Who would have guessed?"  I said with an eye roll and a heaping pound of sarcasm.  Vinyl's mane continued to get fiddled with while the smile on my face stayed put.

"I know right?"  I playfully bopped Vinyl on the top of her head, causing her to recoil over dramatically.  "Ow!  That hurt.  Not physically, but emotionally.  I don't think I can go on anymore, Tavi.  My marefriend just abused me.  That's domestic violence.  I'm probably going to be scarred for life now.  I might end up being a social recluse, reminiscing on the past when my marefriend used to love me, and my friends all used to be there for me.  I'll probably go insane, and turn into a murderer, and you'll probably be the first on my killing spree."

My brow formed a thin line, and my smile dropped.  "Sure Vinyl..."

She shrugged.  "Hey, I'm emotionally unstable; you should know this!  I've had a rough childhood.  That hit coulda brought back gruesome memories."

"Speaking of childhood,"  I said, stopping her before she continued on with whatever it is she is trying to prove, "what's this with your mother?  Why is she annoying you more than I am?"

She gave me a look, but it faded after a second.  "Well...I don't know.  She's just been so...motherly!"

Ahh, Bluebelle.  She's been living with us for almost a month now and I've always enjoyed her company.  She's such a sweet mare when you talk to her, even though she may look quiet in the background.  I enjoy talking with her every now and then, though she always seems uncomfortable when I ask of her past.  Poor dear, I can tell that the wound Bulldoze left will not heal easily.  

Other than that, she has been an absolute doll.  She always enjoys spending as much time with Vinyl as she can.  There are some points where I have to 'give up' Vinyl to her.  It's funny really.  I feel sympathy towards her, but at the same time I still want my Vinyl time.  What?  You can't blame a mare for loving now can you?  

"She is your mother, you do realize this?"  I retorted.

She scoffed.  "Well duh.  It's just that she's been acting so weird.  She's treating me like I'm a foal!  Like, yesterday at dinner when she, like, demanded me to eat all of my broccoli all stern-like n' shit!  You didn't notice it then?"

I brought a hoof to my chin.  "Hmmm, must of slipped my mind."  

"Well, there was that.  Then earlier today she told me to straighten my mane when I go out to the club tonight!  When I told her I'm good, she just wet her hoof and did it for me!  I mean really, I've always gone to the club like this!"  Vinyl flailed her hooves through her mane, ruffling it up.

I placed my hoof on top of hers, stopping her flailing and continuing my mane-fiddling.  "I honestly think she was doing you a favor, I like your mane when you actually groom it."

Vinyl gave me another look.  "Girl, you ratchet.  Ya think I can jus' walk righ in da club lookin' all uptight and upkept like some kinda prancy?"

"I have no idea what you just said, nor do I desire to figure it out or learn."  Dammit Vinyl.  Could you not talk like someone from the ghetto?  It's really not suitable for you...or for anyone as a matter of fact.  It's just horrible.  

"Obviously you've never been to downtown Canterlot...wait, never mind yes you have."  Exactly...Though, I don't associate myself with those hoodlums.  Downtown Canterlot is a very dangerous place.  Gang wars and drug deals everywhere.  Thank Celestia Vinyl lives in the northern part of town.  

"Yes, quite.  Where is Bluebelle anyway?"  I asked.

"Uhh...I think papa took her out somewhere."

Took her out?  What?  "What do you mean by that?"

"Like, he asked her if she would go with him to have dinner so he could talk to her and get to know her better or something.  She was, like, really nervous."  Vinyl replied.

"I wouldn't blame her.  She probably doesn't trust stallions after her last one..."

"Yeah..."  I saw Vinyl's expression harden.  I better change the subject before this gets too heated.

"I'm at least glad she's willing to give daddy a chance.  They can probably be good friends in the future.  Maybe Bluebelle will even get over her last...relation with a stallion and start dating again."

"Eh, maybe."

Alright, let's get back on topic.  "So is that really all that's bothering you?  Your mother just being a mother?"

"Tavi, I'm twenty-two.  I think I can take care of myself.  My mom doesn't need to keep treating me like a foal all the damn time!"

Treating her like a foal.  Now where have I seen this before?  Oh right!  "And I'm twenty-seven and my father still sometimes treats me like a foal.  It's just a parent thing.  No matter how old we are they will always view us as their children."

Vinyl blinked.  "Whoa whoa wait!  You're twenty-seven?  Dayyyyyyyyyum I didn't know I was dating a cougar!"  She then proceeded to claw at me with her hoof and make a screeching cat noise.

I could only stare at her.  Those damn beautiful eyes of hers are the only thing keeping me from shoving her tail in an electrical socket.  Though, judging by the way her mane looks she probably does that daily.  I'll think of some ridiculous verbal threat at another time.  For now, I'll just go with something simple.  "Vinyl.  Do you want me to cause physical harm to your body?"

A sly smile crawled on her lips.  "Only if it involves ropes and whips."

"Get off me!"  I unceremoniously shoved her upright.  If she isn't too busy laughing, it would have been easier.

"O-okay!  Hahahaha!  I'm sorry-ahahahah!  I'll be good!  I swear!  Hahaha!"

I gave her a stern glare, practically telling her 'one more comment like that and you're sleeping on the couch tonight'.  Without another word, she plopped her head back on my lap without any invitation from me.  I sighed and repressed my anger back.  There is still an issue at stake here, and I'll try my best to ignore my violent needs.

"Anyway."  She continued.  "No, like, when I say she treats me like a foal, I literally mean it!  All the time!  Like,  you know, every time I walk out the door to go to a gig, she hugs me, kisses me, and says 'bye honey, good luck tonight, I love you!'  About three times before she goes inside, then rushes out again for another hug and 'I love you' before finally stopping.  It's not like it's my first day of school, ever, sheesh!"

My my, I'll admit that seems like a little too much.  "Have you tried talking to her about it?"

Vinyl cast her gaze to my stomach.  "No..."  

"Well there's your problem."  I simply stated.

Vinyl just mumbled something and buried her muzzle in my belly.  The two of us are laying there for a few moments before I realized that Vinyl didn't want to talk anymore, but just enjoy our embrace.  So I took back to my book and read with one hoof while the other was focused on Vinyl's mane.  I could feel Vinyl sink into my hoof while it gently caressed her head.  She would ever so lightly purr into my coat as we sat in silence.  It is quite relaxing and adorable really.

I only got through one chapter before Vinyl spoke up again.  "Can you do it for me?"

"Pardon?"  I asked, peeling my eyes away from the book.

"Could you talk to her for me?  Just like, ask her to stop treating me like a foal?"

I sighed and slammed the book shut, startling my companion.  "Vinyl, this is something you're going to have to do for yourself.  I can't always pick you up when you fall down a hole."

"Heyyy, I did it to you."

I gritted my teeth.  "The difference there was I dug my own hole.  And I liked it."  Sort of.  "With you, the hole just appeared out of nowhere and you haphazardly stumbled into it."

"Friken jerk ass hole."  A second later, and Vinyl giggled.  "Hehehe, get it?  Jerk ass hole 'ass' 'hole' asshole!"  

"I get it, now could you stop?  Bloody wanker..."

"Wow, you just said the same thing I said but in Cantish!"  Vinyl crossed her hooves.  "A mare can't curse in her own home, but her marefriend can in a different language?  That's cold."

"Vinyl, Cantish is not a different language."  Simpleton.  

"So, like, what's the difference between Cantain, Wingland, and the Neighan Kingdom?  I could never figure it out."

Must I explain this again?  I mean really, everyone who passed any history class in elementary school should know this!  "The Neighan Kingdom is Wingland, Northern Mireland, and Scoltland, all together.  Great Cantain is just the island that houses Wingland and Scoltland.  Wingland is one country within the N.K. that shares the island with Scoltland.  Understand?"

Vinyl's eyes spun in her sockets.  "So uh...you're Cantish.  When ponies say that do they mean you're Winglish and Scolttish?"

I shivered.  "Ew, no.  I'm Winglish and Istallian.  My father was born in Istally, and my mother in Wingland."

"So how'd you get a Cantish accent?"  She asked.  "If papa is Istallian, and your mom was Cantish, and she was never...you know...as a kid, so you never heard her talk, and papa's accent is Istallian, then how'd you end up with a Cantish accent?"

I shrugged.  "I guess the area I grew up in--" Vinyl cut me off.

"You grew up in Chicoltgo!  There's nothing but Istallians and Mafia there!"

I gave her a stern look.  "Vinyl that is stereotypical and offensive.  I myself am from Mafia decent--"  She cut me off again.

"YOUR DAD'S IN THE MOB?!"  She yelled, sitting up straight and looking at me as if I've grown a fifth hoof.  Which I wish I did so I can facehoof another time.

"NO, VINYL!  My father is not in the Mob!  The last descendent I can remember is my great grandfather!"  Celestia almighty I think I now have a headache.

"Oh."  Vinyl's head fell back on my lap.  "That woulda been so cool if you were a Mobster!"  Vinyl started to smirk and fake an Italian accent.  "That's a niceeeeee cello ya got there.  Shame if somtin' were ta...happen to it."

"That's a nice horn you got there, love.  It would be a shame if it were to be impaled in the wall."

"...Ow..."

"Anyway."  I continued.  "Back to your previous question, the neighborhood I lived in was more populated with Cockney Winglish.  When my father landed a job in Canterlot as a history professor in Celestia's School for Gifted Unicorns, I moved here, attended a school that was filled with Winglish ponies, and picked up on it more than on my father."

"You didn't go to school with your dad?"

"Vinyl.  Celestia's School for Gifted Unicorns.  Do you see a phallic shaped Houdini object on my forehead?"

"Girl, that's racist.  I see how it is.  It's totally unicorn supremacy.  It's a conspiracy against the other pony races to eventually wipe them off of the Earth and have the master race be the one true pony race!  Horn power, horn power, horn power, hor-"

"Don't you have a flipping club to jockey at?"  I asked, cutting her off this time.  Aha!

"Oh right.  What time is it?"

I craned my neck to scope out the nearest clock.  "Seven o'clock."  I replied.

"I've got time."  Suddenly, sexy eyes appeared.  "I've got a lot of time."

I smiled.  "You know, it's been a while since we were, alone."

A white hoof wrapped around my neck as Vinyl drew me closer.  "Well then, shall we embrace the moment?"

"Absolutely."  Our lips closed in on each other.  Slowly, the last, miniscule bits of space were nonexistent.  We connected, kissing passionately while Vinyl and I moaned in pleasure.  My whole body tensed up under the spell of her soft lips.  Bulked up feelings that I had to repress resurfaced.  I did not hesitate in pouring out all of my emotions.  

Vinyl shifted position, leaning up and pushing me down.  While still embraced in a kiss, Vinyl twisted me around, and gently laid me back down on the couch.  Vinyl's hooves trailed down my back, eliciting shivers of excitement and lust from me.  Her soft kisses trailed down my cheek, and stopping at my neck.  In response, I lightly caught her ear between my teeth, gently nibbling it.  Vinyl moaned happily, and I can tell she wanted more.

And so I gave her more.

(\/);,;(\/)

Marvelous, truly, truly outrageous.  I feel like a new mare.  Everything is clear to me now.  The secrets of life have been revealed.  I can gaze into the vast, timeless infinity that is our universe.  I can see the minds of ponies, their thoughts, ambitions, prejudices, fears, and what they long to be in life.  Thousands of years of history unfolded before my very eyes.  I see the rise and fall of empires, the life and death of ponies, and the creation of sciences, theories, technology.  I see the darkness that taints a pony's soul, converting them into twisted visages of their former selves.  I see the rise of gods, twisted and corrupted into unmatched power.  I see the defiance of two demigods, fighting until the bitter end to purge the land of corruption.  The rebuilding of a fallen empire, the corruption of kings, the darkness of jealousy, the lone candle in the darkness, the fight for political power, the struggle of a single light, the return of harmony, the end to the night, and finally the restoration of balance between the sun and moon.

So is this why ponies are so hooked on sex?

(\/);,;(\/)

I awoke to the sound of an unlocking door.  My eyes groggily opened as I rubbed the sleep (and maybe something else) out of them.  I yawned, stretched, and sat up on the couch.  It struck me odd to notice that Vinyl wasn't laying next to me.  Eh, she probably woke up already and probably is now getting ready for her performance.

I looked to the door to see Bluebelle and daddy walking in together.  Father looks rather cheery as he held the door open for her.  Bluebelle seemed like a nervous wreck, I can see her shaking from here.  She avoided eye contact with daddy and kept scratching her foreleg with the opposite.  My father smiled at her, and was about to say something when Bluebelle excused herself and hastily retreated.

I stood up from the couch and walked over to daddy.  Having walked passed the hallway that leads to Vinyl's room and bathroom, my suspicions were confirmed when I heard running water and a small stream of steam.  "Hello father."

Daddy instantly brightened up at the sight of me.  "Tavia, my darling daughter, how are you?"  He outstretched his arms to hug me.

I returned the gesture.  "I'm doing outstanding, father, and you?  I see you've had some time to better acquaint yourself with Bluebelle?"

Father straightened his tie.  "Yes actually.  I was in the neighborhood and thought about treating Ms. Bluebelle to dinner.  She seems like such a wonderful young lady, and I just wanted to have a friendly meal with her.  However whilst out, she seemed like a nervous wreck.  I tried everything I could to calm her down, but the poor dear is just...scared of me it seems.  She kept apologizing to me about being in such a state and ruining a friendly dinner, and I made myself clear when I said I had absolutely no problem at all.  I know you have told me of her past, and I wanted to talk to her about it, but she's just so shut in."

I sighed.  "What a shame, she's so talkative and lively around me.  I'm afraid she's just scared of stallions.  Don't worry though, daddy, she'll come around eventually.  I know she knows that not all stallions are like that, but I don't blame her.  A pony like Bulldoze deserves to burn in agonizing pain for eternity."

"Agreed."  My father stated.  "Well I probably should head off.  I have reports to grade that are due on Monday.  It was nice seeing you again Tavia."

"You too, daddy."  I gave him another hug right before he disappeared into the streets.

I yawned once more and turned on my heels.  I better go talk to Bluebelle about this and hear her side of the story.  I hope she doesn't hold any prejudices against my father.  Maybe one day they'll become friends, hopefully.  In due time, Octavia, in due time.  Bluebelle will see that not all stallions are brutes and will find her confidence again.

I found the white mare sitting on her bed in her room.  She doesn't notice me right away, for her gaze is glued to the floor.  The door is ajar, and I lightly knocked on it.  Bluebelle lifted her head to meet my gaze and smiled, welcoming me in.  "Come in."

I sat next to her on the bed.  "Good evening, Bluebelle.  How was your day?"

She sighed.  "I'm sure you've heard what happened."  She hung her head low.  "I'm sorry, Octavia."

I smiled.  "For what?  From what I've heard, you two had a good time."

She shook her head.  "Please don't try to sugarcoat this.  I ruined a nice evening with Arpeggio, and all he was trying to do was be a gentleman."

"Bluebelle, if I may ask, how do you feel about my father?"

Bluebelle straightened herself up and looked me in the eye.  "Octavia, I'm sorry, I really am.  Please understand that I don't have anything against your father.  He's a nice man, he really is.  It's just...It's me really.  I don't want to be scared of him, but I can't keep a steady--I just can't--I'm--"  She cut herself off.  Tears were surfacing in her eyes.

I place a foreleg around her shoulder, attempting to comfort her and cease her sorrow before it escalates.  "Bluebelle, listen.  My father understands what you are going through.  You didn't ruin anything for him.  He doesn't blame you for being scared of him, nor does he have any ill thoughts.  He knows what a monster Bulldoze was, and it tore him to pieces just trying to imagine how or why in Celestia's name could a stallion act like that towards a mare.  If you don't feel ready to trust him, he understands, and is willing to wait."

Bluebelle looks me in the eye once more and smiled genuinely.  I can still see the hurt in her eyes, and I can tell that a fragment of soulless pain will always be there.  The wounds run deep, and the scars easily show.  She nodded after a second, then stood up.  "Thank you, Octavia.  I'll make sure to talk to Arpeggio next time I see him and apologize...again.  Oh!  Has Vinyl left for her gig yet?"

I also rose up from the bed.  "She's in the shower."  I replied.  

Bluebelle sighed in relief.  "Oh good.  I thought I missed her.  That gives me enough time now to make dinner before she goes!  I don't want her going hungry on stage."

Aaaaaand here comes the mother-ness.  "I don't think that's necessary.  You see, Vinyl usually eats at the club during her intermissions."

She raised a brow.  "Bar food?  She goes to the club how many days a week and eats bar food for dinner?  That's very unhealthy.  How does she keep that figure with all of those salty, greasy, fattening foods?"

I shrugged.  "High metabolism?"

She shook her head.  "I can't let that happen.  It's no big deal, really.  I'll just make you two something healthy to eat before she leaves, and maybe give her a little snack while she's there."

I am about to protest and tell her that she doesn't need to, but I thought otherwise.  Vinyl has to be the one who ultimately talks to her mother to sort this whole thing out, not me.  I can't intervene on their affairs, it's not my battle to fight.  I can only support from the sidelines.

Vinyl stepped out of the shower a few moments later with her hair gel in magical grasp.  Blue aura would surround the bottle, extract a portion, and levitate the droplets onto her mane, spiking it to its normal look.  I really wish she would go without spiking it sometimes.  I find it gorgeous when it lays flat over her shoulders.

Bluebelle looked over her shoulder, noticing Vinyl approaching.  "Ah, Vinyl!  I just finished making dinner for you and Octavia!"

Vinyl blinked.  "Dinner?  Uh, I usually eat at the club, but thanks mom!"  She rushed over to the table, awaiting eagerly for food.  When Bluebelle levitated the plates over and dropped one in front of Vinyl, she winced.  There is avocado in this meal, and Vinyl hates avocado.

Two of us started our meals without hesitation, idly nibbling on the avocado slices and sipping water.  Vinyl, on the other hoof, propped her head on a hoof and unconsciously jabbed at the offending fruit with her fork.  Bluebelle kept casting glances at her daughter to make sure she is eating.  "Something wrong, Vinny?"

Vinyl shrugged.  "I hate avocado."

Bluebelle's expression grew dim.  "Oh.  I'm sorry.  Would you like me to make you something else?"

Vinyl shook her head.  "Naw.  It's ok mom, I'll just eat at the club."

Bluebelle scoffed.  "Why would you eat those greasy bar foods when I can make you something healthy here?"

"Uh...Because I like them?  And also I have to get going, like, right now."  She swiftly high tailed it out of the dining room before she is stopped just short of the door.

"Vinyl wait!"

She grumbled and dredged back to the table.  "Yes mom?"

The chair made a dragging noise as Bluebelle stood up.  Her arms are outstretched, silently calling for Vinyl to repeat the action.  Vinyl rolled her eyes and embraced Bluebelle.  They shared an 'I love you' before breaking apart.  As soon as Vinyl turned around, Bluebelle once again hugged her daughter, and once again uttered 'I love you' before she is finally free.

Vinyl levitated her purple tinted shades over her eyes and is just about to walk out the door before she is once again stopped by her mother.  "Aren't you forgetting something, honey?"  Vinyl turned around to see Bluebelle holding up her saddlebags in her magic.  Vinyl facehoofed, grabbed the saddlebag filled with her records and notes, and headed for the door.  "Vinny, I packed you a snack in your bag.  Have fun tonight!  I love you!"

Vinyl was already out the door before her mother could finish.  Bluebelle then turned to me.  "Octavia, have you ever been to Vinyl's club?"

I shook my head.  "Heavens no.  I can't stand that Neanderthalish 'music' they play constantly.  I could honestly find more peace at a construction sight."

"You wouldn't happen to know where it is would you?"  She asked.

"Of course, why do you ask?"

She smiled and trotted to her room.  When she emerged, she tucked an item into a saddlebag.  I swear it looked like a camera.  "I just wanted to see Vinyl perform.  Would it be too much to ask for directions?"

Wait a minute.  Bluebelle wants to go to the club to see Vinyl perform?  Oh dear.  That could be potentially awkward.  "You want to go see Vinyl onstage?"  She nodded.  "Then why didn't you go with her when she left?"

She shrugged.  "I wanted it to be a surprise to her."

"Oh well darn."  I said, faking innocence.  "I guess you'll just have to wait for next week.  I'm sorry but I'm really tired and just want to lay down with a nice book."  I smiled sheepishly.  "If you need me I'll be in my room."  You know, it still seems weird for me to say 'my room' when it's technically Vinyl's.  She's been sleeping there long before I have, and I'm just basically there because Bluebelle has taken residence in my old room.  

"Oh, alright then.  I understand if you're too tired, you go ahead and rest.  I'll just call a taxi."

My eyes shot open and I rounded, only to find Bluebelle has already disappeared.  Blast!  I have to catch her before she embarrasses Vinyl while on the job!  Oh I don't even want to think of how that will scar her reputation!  What if Bluebelle makes some sort of scene where the entire club goes silent and stares at Vinyl while her mother does something really embarrassing?!  I have to stop her!

(\/);,;(\/)

I am able to follow Bluebelle all the way until she came to the doors of the club.  The deafening music could be heard blaring from the next block over.  My heart pounded in my chest every time the bass would beat.  This is one of the many reasons on my list of 'many reasons why I hate clubs': Bass.  The amount of hard, thumping bass always pounds on my heart like an earthquake.  I could barely stand being next to Vinyl when she's blaring music out loud because of my odd condition.  

The longer I stand here the more it hurts.  It's as if there is a creature in my heart trying to break out.  The closer I come to the club just makes it worse.  Even through the painful heart palpitations, I have to carry on.  I have a mission ahead of me, and it must be accomplished with no distractions.

There is a line outside the club.  Not too long, but long enough to waste valuable time.  Blast, I assume I have to wait in this line.  In the front of the line there is a buff looking earth pony stallion with a clipboard and a velvet rope in front of him.  Every few minutes he would open the rope, and let about two to three ponies in at a time.  I didn't know there were ques to get into clubs.  How odd.  In my past performances, one would usually buy a ticket either in advance or at the door.  I long for the days when my performances would sell out nearly days after they are announced.

Gah!  This is not the time to reminisce.  This is the time to stop Bluebelle from ruining Vinyl's reputation.  Well, at least one good thing came from my daydreaming.  The line had gotten significantly shorter, and I should be the next group of three.

"WHAT?!"  

Ahead of me, I heard a mare shriek.  A second later, who I assumed that mare is marched furiously down the line.  I looked towards the bouncer, who waved his hoof in dismissal and continued to watch and wait.  Did they...did they not let her in?  What happened up there?

A small unicorn mare in front of me with a skimpy outfit chuckled dryly.  "Haha, nice try sweetheart, better luck next time."  She commented as the other mare stormed down the aisle.  

My curiosity piped as I turned to the mare in front of me.  "Excuse me, did you see what happened up there?  I wasn't really paying attention."

She laughed again.  "I'm gonna take a wild guess here and say you've never been to a club, am I right?"

I shrugged.  "You are correct."

"Well let me tell ya somtin Treble Clef.  You see, high maintenance clubs like these only let certain ponies enter.  You have to have the right amount of sexyness for the bouncers to open the rope."  She looked me over and clicked her tongue.  "And doll, I can tell ya right now you ain't gettin' in here like that."  

I would have scoffed and rebutted her comment had she not mentioned that I won't gain entry.  I simply held back the anger, and asked her, "So how would a mare like me gain entrance here?"

"Don't know why a noble-looking pony like you would want to get in someplace like this, but hell, I ain't one to complain.  First off, lose the bowtie, it don't suit you well.  Well, at least not here.  I personally think you look hot in it."  She winked at me.  I think I should take that as a compliment.  Luckily, living with Vinyl has gotten me used to suggestive compliments like this.  So I was able to resist the urge to kick her.  "Next, loosen up a bit!  Frazzle your mane some--wait!  I got an idea!"  She pointed to my cravat.  "If I may?"

Normally I wouldn't trust strange, petite skimpy-dress-wearing mares outside of clubs, however I am very desperate to get inside.  In any case, if she were to do something to my cravat I can definitely pound her to a paste, considering she's half my size.  I untied my cravat and held it in front to her.  A soft glow surrounded her horn and it.  The white band swiveled around my head and to the back of my mane.  My hair is soon surrounded in the similar aura.  Within seconds, my cravat is tied to the my mane in what I assume to be a ponytail.

The mare smiled.  "There ya go!  I can just eat you up right here."  She grinned and licked her lips.

I took the ponytail in my hoof, bringing it to my vision to get a better look at it.  Is is long enough to drape onto my back while still leaving room for my bangs to almost cover my eyes.  I pushed the bangs up a little so I can see better.  "While I thank you for the assistance, I would ask of you to not make sexual comments at me."  I smiled and added.  "I'm taken."

She whistled.  "Lucky her."

"How did you know it is a her?"  I asked.

She grinned.  "I would say 'you just told me', but that's too cliche.  Instead, I'm just gonna say 'I literally guessed and also I wanted to see if you're into mares'."

Dammit.  Oh look!  I'm next in line!  Finally I can get out of this line and away from this lust-filled mare.  When I got up to the velvet rope, the bouncer looked me over.  His brow raised as he continued to stare at me.  I could only smile sheepishly and hope he will allow me entry.  From behind me, that mare appeared next to me, draped an arm around my shoulder and spoke to the bouncer.  "Hey Bigshot, this one's with me alright?"

The stallion snorted, nodded, and withdrew the velvet rope.  I sighed, releasing the tension from the unknown fact of getting in or not.  The strange mare trotted next to me with a smile.  We then proceeded inside.  Once the doors opened, the torrent of bass and electrical music hit me like a wind tunnel.  My heart raced erratically.  The pounding tripled in an instant.  I have to get out of here as soon as possible.

"Don't worry Treble Clef, I gotcha back."  

Even though this mare annoyed me greatly, I am still curious to her ways.  "How did you get that bouncer to let me in?"

"Pssh, that's just Bigshot.  He's a real softy...if you know what I mean."  She nudged my side.  "Sides, a friend of my dads owns this place.  I practically do what I want here."

You know, I could use this mare.  "You know, I never caught your name."  I started.

She held a hoof out.  "Name's Moondancer, you got a name or is 'Treble Cleft' suitable enough?"

I shook her hoof.  "My name is Octavia Harmonious."

She blinked.  "No shit?  You're Octavia?  Damn how did I not notice you?!"

"I take it you know me?"

She rolled her eyes.  "Duh, you were only like, the biggest classical music thing since frikin' Beethoven.  Gods' sake girl you played in the Royal Symphony!  How could anyone not know you?"

My brow formed a thin line.  "You'd be surprised."

She shook her head and chuckled.  "Damn...what's a mare like you doing here?  Get bored of classical?  Need a little kick in your life?"

I shivered, and lightly gripped my chest.  "Heavens no.  I'm here for important reasons.  I just need to get in, solve an issue with a friend, and get out."

My eyes scoped the room.  Strobe lights spasmodically flickered in every color in every direction.  A sea of multicolored ponies stood before me, dancing crazily to the 'beat' and rubbing their bodies against each other in a rather suggestive way.  I shivered again.  How do ponies just...grind against each other like that in public?  It looks like some of them are attempting to have sex!

My eyes fell upon the center of the room.  On the very back wall, elevated by a stage, Vinyl stood bobbing her head to the music and fiddling with her turntables.  I'm going to assume Bluebelle hasn't made her way to the DJ yet.  I wonder where she--well speak of the devil.  

I found Bluebelle at a door guarded by a bouncer.  She seems to be attempting to speak with the stallion, but shies away whenever the stallion looks at her.  I turned to Moondancer, only to find her lost in the crowd dancing her tail off.  Good, no distractions.  I approached Bluebelle.  "Bluebelle!"  I called out over the music.  

She turned to me.  "Hello Octavia!  What are you doing here?  And what did you do to your mane?"

"Stopping you!"  This yelling isn't helping my heart.  I gripped my chest once again, attempting to ease the pounding.

"From what?"

I sighed.  I wanted to save this talk for Vinyl and Bluebelle, which I still am, but not most of it, but I'm going to have to say something to her.  "Listen.  I know how much you love Vinyl, and I know how much you want to be a real mother to her, but you have to realize that she's a grown mare.  You can't always treat her like a foal all the time.  I don't want you to go in there, and embarrass her at her workplace.  Trust me, she will be fine without you being next to her every step of the way."

Bluebelle stayed silent for a moment before sighing.  "You're right Octavia.  I know I can get carried away sometimes, but I can't help myself.  I just want to be the mother she never had as a child."

I placed a hoof on her shoulder.  "And you can.  Just not all the time, and definitely not here.  She's not a helpless foal.  She's a grown mare."

Bluebelle smiled sadly.  "Ok.  Thank you Octavia.  I wish I can apologize to her now, though."

From behind us, we heard a sniffle (which is strange, considering the volume of the music.).  I looked behind me to find that the bouncer is lightly crying with a handkerchief in his hooves, wiping his eyes.  

"That was so touching."  He said, then opened the door behind him.  "Here j-just go in!"

Wha-I don-what jus-huh?  Ok...ok...I'm not going to question it.  Just slowly slide through the door, don't even look back.  Ignore logic for now, just go with it.  Once inside, I am not surprised to see Moondancer suddenly appear next to me.  

"Backstage access eh?  What are you up to Treble Cleft?"  She asked with a seductive tone.

I gently pushed her away from me.  "Important business that doesn't concern you."

She pouted.  "Aw poo.  I was hoping to maybe get in on some of that sexy threesome with you and Vinyl."

I shivered.  "No.  None of that is going to happen."

Moondancer looked around.  "Where's that older chick that was with you?"

I raised a brow.  Bluebelle was just behind me...huh.  Maybe she found her way to Vinyl already.  Wait, maybe she found her way to...oh no.  I turned to Moondancer.  "How do I get to the stage?"

"Uhh...this way."  She led me through the backstage hallways and rooms until the door that led to where Vinyl is is revealed.  I opened it, and my fear is realized.  Bluebelle is standing there, talking to Vinyl about something (probably apologizing) while the music still played in the background.  

Since we are on the main stage where all of Vinyl's equipment is stationed, the beating of bass felt like an earthquake.  My heart is now barraging on my ribcage for freedom.  I gripped my chest and winced.  I don't know how much longer I can take this pain!  

Vinyl's eyes landed on me from behind her shades.  "Whoa, Tavi!  You're here too?  Dayum girl, nice manestyle!"

"I know right!  That's what I said!"  Moondancer commented from behind.

Vinyl held out her hoof.  "Sup Moondancer!  What are you doing here?"

The two unicorns bumped hooves.  "Got bored, decided to say hi.  Awesome set, by the way."

"Thanks!"

My jaw fell slightly open as I looked between the three mares in the room.  How come every time I expect some catastrophe, IT DOESN'T HAPPEN?!  How come I can't be right for once and save everyone?!  Ugh, this was an entire waste of time!  I should of just let Bluebelle go alone!  I should be in bed by now!  Oh but no!  Everyone just had to not be in some sort of immediate danger!  Bloody flipping fanny-nibbling bints!

I come here out of concern for Vinyl's reputation, and what do I get?  NO DANGER WHATSOEVER!  Everything that happened tonight was a waste of time!  I could be sleeping right now.  I could be relaxing in the comfort of my bed, awaiting Vinyl to come home and snuggle with me so that I can fall asleep peacefully!  Damn everything.

I gasped and fell to the floor.  My heart exploded from the combination of frustration, bass, and stress.  My body fell limp to the floor as I gasped for air and gripped my chest like my life depended on it.  Which now, it sort of does.  It feels as if my heart has completely stopped.  

I started to cough and wheeze.  My breathing became erratic.  I could taste copper in my mouth.  What's going on?!  What's happening to me?!  Everything hurts!  I can't stand, I can barely focus on what's around me!  I started to shake, not just out of whatever is afflicting me, but also out of fear.  

My vision starts to blur.  I can barely see my own hooves in front of me.  I try to stand up, to try and overcome this, but it is to no avail.  I fall once more to the cold floor.  I can see the scrambling of multicolored blobs rush around my body before everything went black.

(\/);,;(\/)

Light.  Darkness.  Light.  Darkness.  Where is this place?  What has my mind conjured for me this time?  I can see flashes of light, fading darkness, more light, and more darkness.  I don't know how long this cycle of light and darkness is going on for, but eventually it ceased, and my eyes are able to materialize objects.

I think I'm looking at the ceiling.  I'm not sure though, he seems different today.  The fan isn't with him.  Maybe they broke up?  Huh, what a shame.  They had a such a wonderful relationship.  They were attached so well to each other.  Oh, I hope he's up for conversation.  No?  Well screw you too, ceiling.  Fine, mope about all day like that.

My neck pained me as I tried to turn to my left.  When I did, I noticed the sheets on this bed are white.  Strange...Vinyl's bed has red sheets.  Where am I?  On the side of the foreign bed is a metal pole.  My eyes traveled up to see that the pole attaches to a box.  That is when I noticed that the box had a beeping sound to it.

What is this?  Some kind of government biological experimentation lab?  Have I been abducted by the Illuminati?  Maybe they're experimenting on me to make me some sort of super alicorn weapon for war.  Yeah, that's it.  

I felt a pressure on my arm.  Slowly turning my head to seek the source, my vision cleared a bit more to see a white hoof and a grey hoof holding my hoof.  I blinked and fought to stay conscious to see what is going on.  Hours, or minutes, or seconds (I can't tell) pasted before my vision deepened to see that the two hooves belonged to Vinyl and my father.

Vinyl's glasses are off, and her eyes seemed fatigued.  I can barely make out the red lines caking them.  Her expression bore a grim look, but the smile on her face told me she would be alright.  My father, however, seemed to take it harder.  He looked almost the same as the day he came to apologize.  His suit jacket is ruffled and wrinkled.  His mane is a bit disheveled, and his eyes are, too, bloodshot.

Days (Minutes?) more have passed, and my vision finally cleared enough to see almost perfectly.  It is now that I realize I am in a hospital.  The white bed, the strange equipment, the sink beside me, the television hanging in the corner.  How did I get here?  What on earth happened to me the night before?  All I could remember is going to Vinyl's club and stopping Bluebelle from (potentially) embarrassing her at work.

"Tavi!  You're awake!"  Vinyl squealed as she hugged me, causing me to grunt in pain and her to recoil.  "Sorry!"

"My dear Tavia."  My father said in a whisper.  "What happened to you?"

My mind raced through last night, trying to remember everything.  Did I get drunk?  No, I didn't have a single drink.  Maybe I hit myself on something?  No, there's no need for a hospital for that.  "Allow me to explain."  A voice from the far corner of the room revealed a stallion with a white coat on and a stethoscope around his neck.  He approached the three of us and shook both my father's and Vinyl's hooves.  "Hello everyone, I am Doctor Rob I. Tussin."  He grabbed a nearby clipboard hanging from the edge of the bed.  "You see, Ms. Harmonious here had a case of myocardial infarction."  

"Uhhh..."  Vinyl started.

Doctor Tussin raised a brow.  "Heart attack."  He clarified.

Heart attack?  I had a heart attack?  How is that possible?!  I'm not old and frail!  I'm not unhealthy in the least bit!  This just doesn't make any sense!  I shouldn't be having heart attacks until at least twenty years from now!  Can it be possible that the music in the club on top of the anger and stress I had caused this?

The doctor held the clipboard in his magical grip.  "Although, as to why Octavia had a heart attack is very strange.  She is perfectly healthy according to blood samples.  She is not overweight, her salt intake is normal, sugar intake is normal, protein intake--everything is normal."  He turned to ask me, "Could you tell me what you were doing last night prior to the incident?"

I looked at him for a few seconds, gathering my thoughts together.  "I was at a club,"  I started in tired tone.  "When I first entered, the beat of the music was bothering my chest.  It felt like my heart was trying to burst with every bass drop.  The closer I got to the speakers, the worse it got.  At some time last night, I was really angry, and almost on top of the speakers when I passed out."

The doctors face hardened.  "Ah yes, I've seen this case a few times before.  There have been reports of young, healthy ponies that have irregular heart problems while close by loud music.  There are a couple conditions relating to loud music and heart problems.  One of them is sudden arrhythmic death syndrome, or SADS.  A couple of years ago a young colt suddenly dropped dead at a concert one day, sad story.  Lucky for you, though, you're not dead."  Well, at least he has a sense of humor.  "Another condition is supra ventricular tachycardia, which is just fancy for highly abnormal heart rate.  You see, the bass causes your body to tense, and the sound waves travel through your tense muscles and bones, pounding on your heart.  Also, your mentioned anger could also have a role in helping with your heart attack.  I would advise you to stay away from loud music for a while, as well as other things."  

He floated over a small pamphlet to my bedside.  "This pamphlet has information on how to recover after a heart attack.  Now, it takes about two months for the heart to fully recover, and in those two months you must refrain from a lot of strenuous activities and stressful situations."

I smiled and looked at Vinyl.  "That means don't annoy me."

She rolled her eyes.  "Har har."

"However," He continued, "you must have at least some exercise a day to help your heart recover.  Not much though, for it could damage it.  A mile a day of light walking should do the trick.  Every week you must also come to my office for a check up, so that I know everything is going along smoothly.  Now, are there any questions for me?"

"Yes, doctor."  My father started.  "Is she...going to be prone to more future attacks?"

Doctor Tussin nodded sadly.  "I'm afraid so.  Once you have your first attack, it's not easy to get rid of them.  But don't you worry none, as long as you recover properly and stay away from anymore nightclubs, you should be absolutely fine.  A mare as healthy as you shouldn't get another heart attack like that without due reason."

"Thank you, doctor."  My father said.

"My pleasure.  Now, I want to keep Octavia overnight for further examination to make sure she's stable.  You two can stay for a bit longer, but Visiting hours will be over soon.  I'll come back and let it be known."  He then exited the room.  Once the door clicked shut, Vinyl rounded on me, squeezing me in a vice grip hug.  

"Tavi I'm so sorry my music almost killed you!  I promise I'll never play anything out loud again!"  Oh?  Is this true?  Have my prayers been answered?!  Thank the Gods!

However, there is still a pressing issue at the moment.  "Vinyl...you are...hurting me..."

She released me.  "Oh sorry!"

I took a moment to catch my breath.  "Don't worry.  It's ok Vinyl.  At least I'm alive.  Just...take it easy for a while ok?"

She nodded sadly and wiped a tear from her eye.

I sat up in the bed and sighed in relief.  "Where is Bluebelle?"  I asked after noticing that Vinyl and my father are the only two in the room.  

"Mom's in the waiting room with Moondancer."  Vinyl replied.

My eyes narrowed.  "She's here too?  Why?"

"She felt worried about you.  Ya know, just being friendly."

To be honest, I don't know how to feel about Moondancer.  If I remember correctly, I think she was one of Vinyl's ex-marefriends.  She seems nice when she helped me get into the club, but she's also very rude with her sexual comments.  However, she did come here to check on me...I wonder why?

"Mom feels really bad about it."  Vinyl continued, a soft tone evident in her voice.  "She thinks it's her fault for overreacting and making you follow her here."

Oh dear.  I hope she isn't taking it too hardly.  I would hate for her to go through all of that when I don't even blame her in the first place.  I don't blame anyone really.  I didn't know about this heart condition myself until today!  

"Did the doctor say when I can leave tomorrow?"  I asked.  

"Yes."  My father replied.  "He said when you gain enough strength to stand you are free to go.  Just be careful, sweetheart.  We'll be here bright and early tomorrow to help you out."

I nodded.  "Do you think you can get Bluebelle and Moondancer in here?  I'd like to talk with them."

My father nodded and exited the room.  Once the door clicked shut, Vinyl gently enveloped me a deep kiss.  I can tell she was holding this one back for a while.  All of her sympathy and sorrow just flooded out, and I countered them with love and forgiveness.  It didn't just end with one kiss, however.  She showered me with nuzzles, random kisses on my cheek, my forehead, and my neck, as well as 'I'm sorry' between every one of them.

Our passionate moment is cut short unfortunately.  Father returned with Bluebelle hesitantly passing through the door, and Moondancer stone-faced and mechanically striding in.  At the sight of me, Vinyl's mother quickly rushed to my side.  Her eyes were also a bit bloodshot and glistening with tears.

"Oh Octavia I'm so sorry!  This is all my fault!  If I would have never gone to that stupid club you wouldn't be here!  I shouldn't have overreacted, I shouldn't have--"  I am able to cut her off by placing a gentle hoof on her shoulder.

"Bluebelle please,"  I started.  "There is absolutely no need to apologize to me.  It's not your fault, nor Vinyl's, nor mine.  I didn't know I could get a heart attack from being around loud bass.  So don't blame yourself, or anypony for the matter.  I'm fine now, and that's all that matters."

She sniffed and started to ramble again.  "I know but...but If I had just listened to you at the house this wouldn't have happened!  Oh look at you here, it's terrible!  All of it was because of me!"

"Bluebelle stop."  I said firmly, but not angry.  "Like I said, I'm not mad at you, nor me, nor Vinyl, nor Moondancer.  All of this was pure bad luck.  Nopony predicted it, nopony saw it coming, nopony instigated it.  Please don't beat yourself up over it.  I'm fine now.  I'm alive.  Everything will be fine."

Bluebelle opened and closed her mouth a few times, stumbling on words or thoughts.  I told her once again that there is no need for apologizing, and that everything is completely fine.  She nodded with a frown and walked away slowly.  Moondancer then came up to me.

"Ya know.  I've heard of ponies that can't hold down their liquor, but a pony who can't hold down music?  Now I've seen it all."  She held out her hoof.  "Glad you're ok, Treble Cleft."

I rolled my eyes, but still shook her hoof.  At least she didn't go all out with some form of an apology, because there is really no need for an apology.  Like I said before, it is noponies fault.  I am completely content without anyone's sympathy.  There's about a good ten minutes before visiting hours are over, so I decided to pick up the pamphlet and skim over it.  "Let's see what this says.  'No strenuous activity...' I started mumbling the lines to myself before coming across a specific sentence.  " 'No sexual activity.'  Vinyl."

A faint scarlet hue invaded her cheeks.  "...Well shit."  Both Vinyl and Moondancer replied simultaneously.

I continued to read until the end, turning back to Vinyl I said.  "Basically it says to not annoy me, not aggravate me, no sex, no physical labor, no stressful situations, and no unhealthy foods.  Come to think of it, for the first month you should probably stay clear of me."  I smiled playfully.

"Oh.  I see how it is.  Well fine."  Vinyl left my side, but not before thumping the top of my head.

I glared at her.  "That counts as aggravating me."  I said through gritted teeth.  She only smiled innocently and whistled.

This is going to be a long two months of recovery.  From beside me, my father looked as if he had been through a war.  His stone cold, hardened expression could cut diamonds.  He gazed off in contemplation, not paying attention to anything around him.  I could barely make out him whispering something that sort of sounded like 'damn the house'?  What does he mean by that?  I sighed, there's no need to ponder over it.  I'm alive, and everything's going to be ok.  I just want to rest now in this bed with a good book.

It was then that the doctor came back in and told us to wrap it up.  Moondancer shared a hoof bump with Vinyl and I before going her separate way.  My father offered to walk Bluebelle home, but she politely declined and hurried out.  Vinyl is the last to stay, sharing one more kiss with me before saying goodbye.