*It was late morning in Ponyville. At the local record store, a costumer had just walked through the door, ringing the bell as she did so. She was a heavy set pony mare with white fur, a yellow tail and a mane piled up in a beehive hairdo, violet eyes with long eyelashes, and a pair of golden theater binoculars for a cutie mark. She approached the front desk, where Vinyl Scratch was busy writing in her diary*

Vinyl Scratch: *lowers her trademark shades to reveal her red eyes* Uh… Can I help you?

???: Yes, you may, young lady. I am Madame Veranda, one of the wealthiest and most sophisticated aristocrats in all of Canterlot.

Vinyl Scratch: Well, as you can see, this is a music shop. If it's music you need, I can help, but if you're lookin' for any of that hoity-toity object d'art stuff, you might wanna try the antique shop a few doors down.

Madame Veranda: Oh, yes, of course. You see, my dear, this coming Saturday, I shall be holding a banquet celebrating my fortieth wedding anniversary, where some of the most elite in high pony society will be attending. Now I was going to have a live orchestra perform for my guests, but I'm afraid all the best musicians are booked up until next month. Do you have any "classical" music records, appropriate for an occasion such as this?

Vinyl Scratch: Hold on just a minute. MEZMO! You're needed up front.

*Just then, Mezmo came running up to the front desk and skidded to a halt right in front of Madam Veranda, adjusting his hat afterwards*

Mezmo: You wanted me, boss?

Vinyl Scratch: Yeah. Show her ladyship here to the "Classical" section, help her find something, then move those boxes out of storage like I asked you to.

Mezmo: *nods* Alright. *turns to Madam Veranda* Come with me, miss.

*The Classical section of Vinyl's shop was tucked away in a corner, as most of her customers don't go for it, but it's selection is far from small. Mezmo was fingering through the albums until he pulls out one with a silhouette of a pony playing a cello on the cover. The title says "Canterlot Filly-Harmonic*

Mezmo: How about this? The Canterlot Filly-Harmonic Orchestra is the Princess' private musical troupe.

Madame Veranda: Hmm… Thank you, but no.

Mezmo: Huh? But why? Don't you like them?

Madame Veranda: *looks around* Lad, promise you won't breathe a word of what I'm about to say?

Mezmo: Uh… Sure, what is it?

Veranda: Everyone already knows every song the orchestra plays. Rumor has it that the lead Cellist, Octavia, hasn't written anything new in MONTHS.

Mezmo: *raises an eyebrow* Really? Hmm… Well then, might I recommend one of my own personal favorites instead?

Madame Veranda: Well…what would YOU recommend?

*Mezmo thumbed through the records and pulled out one that had a man with a white powdered wig with a red coat. The title simply read "Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart"*

Mezmo: Here we go. I donated this out of my own personal collection.

Madame Veranda: Never heard of this fellow. Is he any good?

Mezmo: Is he any good? Madame, Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart was one of the greatest composers who ever lived. He was made royal court composer when he was 17 years old. Heck, his first performance in front of royalty was at age 5! To this day, he is still considered a musical genius! Care to have a listen for yourself?

Madame Veranda: Well… Alright.

*Back at the front desk, Vinyl was playing the selected record before Madame Veranda and Mezmo on a record player. Madame Veranda smiled as she listened to the piece "A Little Night Music in G major - Allegro"*

Madame Veranda: I say… He's quite good for a human, isn't he?

Mezmo: Yup. He's composed over 600 pieces of music throughout his entire life including symphonies, concertos and even operas!

Madame Veranda: And he's never played at any of the functions in Canterlot?

Vinyl Scratch: He's DEAD, your ladyship.

Madame Veranda: Oh, how sad. When is the funeral?

Vinyl Scratch: He died a long time ago.

Mezmo: 200 years, to be exact. And at a very young age, too.

Vinyl Scratch: And he's buried in a pauper's grave. A man who is STILL considered a genius in his field, who played for royalty when he was barely able to talk, was buried in a pine BOX in an all but unmarked hole in the ground!

*Mezmo said nothing as he stared shockingly at Vinyl, mouth agape*

Vinyl Scratch: Sorry. I just get real miffed when I think about it. Guy was a genius. He deserved better than that.

Madame Veranda: I'll say he does! I'll take it! *looks to Mezmo* Are you sure you won't miss it?

Mezmo: *snaps out of it* Oh no, no, go ahead! I have another copy at home.

Vinyl Scratch: 50 bits, your ladyship. Those recordings aren't easy to come by.

Madame Veranda: *takes out a bag of coins and places it on the desk* There you go, my dear. *takes the record and puts it in her bag* Thank you so much. Ta ta! *walks out the door*

Mezmo: *looks at Vinyl* Vinyl, how do you know about Mozart?

Vinyl Scratch: I love music. I've got all kinds of stuff at home, including stuff on human composers.

Mezmo: But…he's not exactly from around "here".

Vinyl Scratch: I'm aware. My ancestor, Wind Whistler, was among the ponies who were there when the humans first came here. Now…I believe you have an appointment with some boxes in the back?

Mezmo: Oh right, of course. *begins to walk off, but then stops and turns back to Vinyl* Uh, Vinyl?

Vinyl Scratch: Yeah?

Mezmo: I've been meaning to ask… Do you know an Earth Pony named Octavia? Because, I see that picture on your desk of you and that other mare. She sorta looks like Octavia, but her mane is shorter.

Vinyl Scratch: Why? Do YOU know her?

Mezmo: Uh… We're more like acquaintances.

Vinyl Scratch: *chuckles* Yeah. Ockie and me, we go WAY back. We grew up together. Best friends all the way through school. Even played together in the same band for a while.

Mezmo: Really?

Vinyl Scratch: Yeah. The good ol' days. Just me, Ock, and Riot. Best friends all the way, the black sheep of our families. Uh… No offense.

*A black ram was looking at some jazz records when he overheard Vinyl's statement*

Ram: None taken.

Mezmo: Madame Veranda said she hasn't written any new pieces of music in a while. Why is that?

Vinyl Scratch: Ah, probably just in one of her creative slumps. They happen every so often. She'll get over it, just like she always does.

Mezmo: You think so?

Vinyl Scratch: Yeah. You take it from me, sooner or later, Octavia will wake up in the middle of the night in a cold sweat and write down another masterpiece.

Mezmo: Well, I hope you're right. Anyway, I better get to those boxes now. *walks off into the store*

Vinyl Scratch: *turns to Power Chord, who was sweeping the floor* Power Chord, give the kid a hoof, would you?

Power Chord: Huh? *stops sweeping* Sure thing, boss. *trots after Mezmo*

*Later, in the back room, Power Chord lead Mezmo to a group of boxes near the back wall*

Power Chord: Vinyl wants all these brought up to the front for the big sale this weekend. She's sure this old music is makin' a comeback.

Mezmo: All these boxes? That'll take forever!

Power Chord: Well, best get to it, then. Sooner we start, the sooner we're done. *his horn glows as he levitates a box into the air before him* C'mon.

Mezmo: Okay, okay. *takes out his wand and points it at a large box* Wingadrium Leviosa! *slowly levitates the box and floats it in front of him*

Power Chord: Watch your step. Lotta junk lyin' around.

Mezmo: I can see that… Just don't break my concentration or I'll drop the box.

Power Chord: Righ'. *keeps walking toward the door to the shop*

Mezmo: *floats the box over to the door to the shop* Careful… Steady… Must. Not. Drop… *accidentally steps on a loose floorboard!* WHOA!!!

*As Mezmo fell to the floor, the box fell and clattered across the floor, sliding to a stop near a shelf covered in dust*

Mezmo: Ugh… *gets up and dusts himself off* I thought Heavy Strings was supposed to fix that loose floorboard!

*As Mezmo went to retrieve his box, he noticed something on the shelf. He blew away the dust to reveal a pony-styled vest/jacket made of yellow leather with black stripes*

Mezmo: Whoa... *takes the jacket and looks at it closer* Very retro... *turns to Power Chord* Hey, Power Chord, look at this.

Power Chord: *sets down his box and trots over* Whoa… Nice. Bet whatever mare wore this number was a cutie.

Mezmo: You don't think…?

Power Chord: Ya got me, pal. Say...there's somethin' else on this shelf.

*Power Chord then levitated a dust-covered square from off the shelf. When the dust fell away, it was revealed to be record album. The cover simply read "The Stingers"*

Power Chord: Oh, my goddesses! I've heard of this band! They were the best! C'mon! We gotta show Vinyl!

*Back at the front desk, Vinyl Scratch was looking through the small collection of records under the desk for something to listen to. Her headphones were resting around her neck while she looked. Double Neck was there as well, leaning against the desk and reading a magazine. Just then, Mezmo and Power Chord walked up to her, carrying the old record and jacket*

Power Chord: Boss! You will not believe what we found back in the storeroom! You are gonna LOSE IT!

Vinyl Scratch: I thought I told you guys to get those boxes up here.

Mezmo: We were, but then I found this. *holds up the jacket*

Vinyl Scratch: *eyes widen* Uh… You don't say.

Power Chord: And that's not all. *levitates the record in front of Vinyl's face* We found an ACTUAL copy of the Stingers' first album! Can you believe it?! Guess whoever owned this store before you was a real fan, Vinyl. C'mon! We gotta play this. *levitates the record over to the player and lands the needle on it*

*(Sting, sting, Stingers)
We'll sting you with our sound
(Sting, sting, Stingers)
We're the hottest band around
(Sting, sting, Stingers)
We'll sting you with our song
(Sting, sting, Stingers)
We'll be on top before too long
We're the happenin' thing
We're takin' wing
We're the latest buzz
The greatest band that ever was…

(Sting, sting, Stingers)
We're off to a hot start
(Sting, sting, Stingers)
We're gonna rock this place apart…
(Sting, sting, Stingers)
We're gonna break through
(Sting, sting, Stingers)
Our little Minx will startle you
(Sting, sting, Stingers)
Our music is Rapturous
(Sting, sting, Stingers)
There'll be a Riot over us…

(Sting, sting, Stingers)
(Stingers)
Stingers!*

Double Neck: No way… My dad used to tell me about these guys! *gallops over to a display of framed posters* Where was it? I know I saw it in here…

Mezmo: How come I've never heard of… You know what, never mind.

Double Neck: I FOUND IT!!! *pulls out a poster of three ponies with platinum blond manes and tails wearing yellow and black outfits* Here they are. The Stingers themselves. Back in the days of Glam Rock, they were one of the greatest. Minx was on Synthesizer, Rapture on guitar and the lead singer was Wild Riot himself!

Power Chord: I was right! That Minx WAS cute. Too bad she's probably an old nag by now, right?

Vinyl Scratch: I AM NOT!!! Uh… I mean…

Mezmo: *raises an eyebrow* Vinyl… Were you a member of the Stingers?

Vinyl Scratch: Awww, MAN! Okay, you caught me. That vest and stuff back there are mine. When I was younger, some pals of mine and I formed a band for fun. We entered this talent contest, won, got signed to a record company. The usual stuff.

Mezmo: How old ARE you anyway? You look like you should be in your late teens.

Vinyl Scratch: I'm only 33, thank you. But I DO take care of myself. I don't drink. I don't smoke. I don't do junk food.

Mezmo: *eyes widen* 33?! Are you sure you don't use magic?

Vinyl Scratch: I'm not THAT good. My best spell? *in a series of flashes, her mane and tail turn red, then green, then platinum blonde, then blue again* Changing colors.

Mezmo: Okay, okay, sorry.

*Mezmo turned back to the poster, looking at the earth pony mare called Rapture. More specifically, her gray coat*

Mezmo: Hmm… Hey, Vinyl. This pony sort of looks like… Nah, it couldn't be. This isn't her type of music.

Vinyl Scratch: You'd be surprised. Ockie is a musician of many talents.

Mezmo: *eyes widen* Whoa, whoa, whoa!! Octavia was a rocker?!

Vinyl Scratch: What can I say? Ockie was a wild child back in the day.

Power Chord: No way. THAT'S Octavia? This hottie is the same hoity-toity snob you have lunch with sometimes?

Vinyl Scratch: She's not a snob, Power. Octavia just took her career in a different direction after the band split up.

Double Neck: Well, that certainly explains that same bored expression she always has on her face.

Power Chord: Whatever happened, anyway? You guys were on top! Why split up like that?

Mezmo: Changing times, maybe? I mean, Glam Rock went out of style like twenty years ago.

Vinyl Scratch: *knickers softly* No. It was something else. We'd just finished our first big world tour and we were livin' the dream… Then, Riot's dad showed up.

Double Neck: He wasn't into Glam Rock?

Vinyl: Not into ANY kind of music. You see, Wild Riot's dad was a member of the Royal Guard, just like all his ancestors, going back centuries. You can imagine how he felt when he heard his son quit to join a rock band.

Mezmo: Yikes! Really?

Vinyl Scratch: He came barging right into our penthouse and openly accused Riot of destroying their family legacy. Called him weak and a quitter. Riot had enough. They got into this huge fight and Riot finally DECKED his old man right in the face! Security hauled him out and we went on with life…until we learned Riot's dad was in the hospital.

Power Chord: *eyes widen* Whoa!! You serious?!

Vinyl Scratch: Yeah. Turns out a short temper and weak heart don't help in a fight. Riot's dad had a huge heart attack. The doctors managed to save him, but…Riot blamed himself. Never mind his dad came LOOKING for a fight.

Mezmo: Where's Riot now?

Vinyl Scratch: I imagine he's still in Canterlot, looking after his family estate. *snorts* That father of his STILL holds Riot under his hoof.

Mezmo: *ponders* Hmm…

Vinyl Scratch: Okay, I know that look. What're you thinkin'?

Mezmo: Oh, nothing, nothing…

Vinyl Scratch: Uh-huh. Sure. Now get back to work! I ain't payin' ya to stroll down memory lane!

Power Chord: Yeah, boss!

Mezmo: Right away!

*Later that afternoon, at Mezmo's cottage, Mezmo, along with Salem, Double Neck, Power Chord, and Heavy Strings were gathered in the living room, talking about Vinyl's former career as a member of The Stingers*

Salem: Wow. Your boss was a rock star? I mean, I know she's a famous DJ, but…wow.

Mezmo: Hey, I had no idea she was THAT old.

Salem: Oh, thanks a lot. Do I need to remind you I'm over 80?

Mezmo: Oh, right. Sorry.

Salem: You are forgiven. *stretches and reclines in a sunbeam*

Heavy Strings: First I find out your cat's your uncle, now this? Whoo! What a day I'm havin' today!

Salem: Well, it's not all bad. If someone ever writes a tell-all book about the Stingers, they might come to you for an interview.

Mezmo: But I just heard about them TODAY!

Salem: Exclusive personality interview with Minx's employees!

Heavy Strings: Any money in stuff like that?

Salem: Tons.

Heavy Strings: YES!!!

Double Neck: Does this really make any difference? So the boss was in a band way back when. Why does that matter?

Mezmo: What matters is what happened to their lead singer, Riot!

Power Chord: You mean that stuff about his dad? *scoffs* Big deal. If he's as sick as Vinyl says, soon enough he'll pop off and Riot inherits his estate.

Heavy Strings: What makes you think he has an estate?

Power Chord: He lives in Canterlot, doesn't he? Everypony who lives there is nobility of some sort.

Mezmo: Yeah, Octavia lives in Centerlot and her house is huge! Trust me, I've been to it, and it is gorgeous!

Double Neck: Look, I probably shouldn't say this, but Vinyl was starin' at that record for the longest time. I think she's suffering from an attack of nostalgia.

Heavy Strings: Misses the good ol' days, huh?

Double Neck: You got it. I think she really misses when the Stingers were a team.

Mezmo: That's why I've asked you all to come here today. I have an idea on how to cheer her up.

Salem: And that would be?

Mezmo: *smiles deviously* Guys…we're gonna reunite The Stingers!

Power Chord: Uh…and how do we do that?

Mezmo: By going to Canterlot and convincing Octavia and Riot to play one final concert with Vinyl here in Ponyville.

Double Neck: Whoa, whoa! You mean…walk into the capital city, right into Riot's family estate, and try to convince him to defy his father and go back to his band?

Mezmo: When you say it like that, you make it seem like it's gonna be hard. Yet you guys forget… *pulls out his wand* I'm a wizard-in-training!

Heavy Strings: Okay. That might be useful…as long as we don't run into any wizards whose training is complete.

Salem: *hisses* There's no such thing. A wizard's training lasts his entire life.

Mezmo: *sarcastically* Gee, thanks, unc.

Salem: Mez, I'm not insulting you. I'm trying to explain. No matter what those fancy magic academies say, there is never a real end to a wizard's learning. There is ALWAYS something new to discover. That lesson will aide you greatly in the future, I hope, Mezmo.

Double Neck: So, you're saying…

Salem: I'm saying GO! Help your friend. You know the path! Go! Confront the problem! FIGHT!!! WIN!!! And pick me up some catnip treats while you're out.

Mezmo: Will do. *looks to the others* Okay, guys, pack your things. Tomorrow, we head for Canterlot!

Power Chord: Uh…Mez… You got fare for the train? I'm kinda broke until payday.

Mezmo: *groans* Sure, okay.

*The next day, at Canterlot train station, the train from Ponyville pulled in with a great gush of steam. Mezmo and his co-workers stepped off onto the platform and looked out into the vast city*

Double Neck: *secures her bag around her neck* Whoa… Check it out.

Heavy Strings: Yeah, baby. SNO-OB Hill.

Mezmo: Come on, guys. I know exactly where Octavia lives.

*Minutes later, the group had arrived at Octavia's house as Mezmo rang the doorbell*

Heavy Strings: *knickers softly* You weren't kiddin', Mezzy. You could play polo on this front yard.

*The door opened and Octavia was seen standing in the doorway. She beamed at the sight of Mezmo*

Octavia: Mezmo! Wonderful to see you again! Oh, and who are these new friends of yours?

Mezmo: Hi Octavia. These are my co-workers from my new job. Well, two of them are co-workers, one just hangs out at the store.

Heavy Strings: Hey!

Octavia: Please, please, come inside. I was just about to sit down to lunch on the patio. Please, join me.

Double Neck: Wow! Thanks!

Octavia: I'm always happy to have company. Tell me, Mezmo, how is Vinyl doing?

Mezmo: Oh, she's fine. She's back in Ponyville. Anyway, what's for lunch?

*Later, out on the patio, the group sits down with Octavia to a wonderful meal of watercress sandwiches, fresh fruit and hot tea*

Octavia: *sighs* So, you found out about the Stingers, did you?

Power Chord: Yeah, Mezmo and I found Vinyl's old jacket when we were moving boxes out of the back room.

Octavia: Yes. There are some painful memories of those times…but a lot of good ones, too.

Mezmo: That's why we're here, Octavia… We want you and the other Stingers to do one final concert in Ponyville.

Octavia: A concert? You mean…get the band back together?

Heavy Strings: Bingo!

Octavia: I…I…I don't know what to say. Well, of COURSE I'd say yes…but…oh, dear. Riot.

Power Chord: Yeah. Whatever happened to him, anyway?

Octavia: Oh, I see him from time to time…but we never get a chance to talk, I'm sad to say.

Double Neck: Daddy keeping him on a short leash?

Octavia: Like you wouldn't believe. *snorts* I could just grab Spanish Steel by his horn and SHAKE him!

Mezmo: Whoa! Cool it, Octavia! Chill!

Octavia: I'm sorry. It's just…the way that unicorn lords over his own family is sickening! He doesn't care what Riot wants. All he cares about is his image and his precious legacy.

Double Neck: Which is gonna make it even harder for us to convince him to come back to the band.

Octavia: I'm sure we could if we could just get him alone. But therein lies the problem.

Mezmo: Where does he live?

Octavia: The outskirts of the city. That's where all the really OLD family estates are.

Mezmo: Well, come on, we've got to go see him.

Octavia: I'll show you the way.

*As the group traveled through Canterlot, they left the hustle and bustle of the heart of the city and out into rolling green hills. Dotted here and there were huge gothic mansions and manor houses.

Double: Whoa… Who knew Wild Riot came from THIS kinda money?

Octavia: Oh, yes. Riot's family can be traced back to the ancient Unicorn royal family.

Mezmo: That old, huh?

Octavia: I know how it sounds, but Riot never lied to us about where he came from. He honestly doesn't care about his family legacy. He just wanted to follow his talent and play music.

Power Chord: Sounds like MY kind of unicorn!

Octavia: Yes, but his father… I don't know. It's almost like he can't accept that his son's talent is music instead of fencing or strategy or some other military discipline.

Mezmo: Sounds like someone I know back in Mareheim…

*The group then stop outside a massive gate. On top of the gate was a plaque with a picture of a pair of crossed fencing foils*

Octavia: This is it. Riot's family estate.

Heavy Strings: That's his family's cutie mark, huh?

Octavia: Yes. Some variation on this mark appears on the flank of every blood member of the family. Even Riot has it.

Double Neck: So… How do we get in?

Octavia: Without an invitation, you got me.

Heavy Strings: We could just knock on the gate.

Octavia: You mean just walk up to the gate, rap my hoof on it and say, "Excuse me, but could I please see the young lord Wild Riot?"

Heavy Strings: Uh… Yeah?

*Octavia pounds on the steel barred gate with a forehoof. Surprisingly, the gate slides open*

Double Neck: Hey… It worked.

Power Chord: I guess if you're a commander of the Royal Guard, you really don't need to worry about thieves.

Mezmo Well, come on, let's go.

*The group carefully entered and walked down the main path, all the while gawking at the well-manicured lawn and groves of fruit trees. Lining the path were perfect topiaries of various animals*

Heavy Strings: Clearly, Spanish Steel likes to show off his money.

Mezmo: Yeah, look at all the topiaries. I wouldn't be surprised if he even made one of himself.

Double Neck: Nope. Looks like he sprang for stone. Look. *points to a large marble statue of a unicorn stallion in full armor holding a flag baring the ancient unicorn standard*

Heavy Strings: Can you say "egomaniac"?

Mezmo: More like "pompous" if you ask me.

Power Chord: Creepy how it's starin' at us like that. Like it's gonna come alive and attack us or somethin'.

Heavy Strings: Don't give it any ideas!

*When the group reaches the grand manor, they find the door to the house just as easy to open as the gate*

Mezmo: It happened again… Hmm… Do you think he's EXPECTING visitors?

*As the look around the entrance hall, the sound of a guitar being strummed echoes through the house*

Octavia: Hey, I know those licks.

Mezmo: *looks to Octavia, raising an eyebrow* Licks?

Octavia: I wasn't always a classical music player, you know.

???: *singing* Let me be,
Let me be the man I'm meant to be
Let me be, though I may not suit you perfectly
Set me free to follow my own star
Let me be
Can't you see, we are who we are

There's no room to grow, and love to show
We'll make it you and me
All I ask of you is, let me be

Let me grow
Let me show you more of what I know
Let me fly
Let me touch your heart and make you cry
Set me free
To find my own star
Set me free
Can't you see, we are who we are

*Following the sound, the group came to a room upstairs. Inside was a palomino unicorn stallion using his magic and forehooves to play an electric guitar. On his flank is a cutie mark baring a pair of crossed fencing foils behind a guitar. This was Riot, the former lead singer of The Stingers*

Octavia: Didn't I tell you guys he was good?

Riot: *looks to the door and sees Mezmo, Octavia and the others* Octavia?

Octavia: Hello, Riot. It's been an awful long time. *walks up to the stallion and wraps her neck around his in the equine version of a hug*

Riot: *rubs his neck against Octavia's* W-What brings you here? How did you even get in?

Octavia: The gate and the front door were unlocked.

Riot: *gets up and walks over to his window* I guess dad forgot to lock them again. He's been too busy rushing between his duties and the hospital. *looks at Mezmo and the others* Who're your friends. I see one of them is human.

Octavia: Oh, right. Sorry. Riot, these are Power Chord, Double Neck, Heavy Strings, and Mezmo. They work for Vinyl Scratch at her record shop in Ponyville.

Mezmo: *tips his hat* Nice to meet you.

Riot: Pleased to meet you all. *looks to Octavia* Rapture, I'm always happy to see you, but…you shouldn't be here! If my dad catches you, you could end up in the dungeon!

Power Chord: *eyes widen* Dungeon?!

Riot: Dad really does not like trespassers. As a guard commander, he has the authority.

Mezmo: Don't worry, Princess Celestia can vouch for me if he tries. Anyway, onto the reason why we're here.

Double Neck: Well, Mr. Riot, sir… We want you to come back to The Stingers.

Heavy Strings: Just for one last performance in Ponyville. It'd make our boss, Vinyl Scratch, so happy if you did.

Riot: I… Rapture, you KNOW I would, but… *looks around nervously* Shh… Even the walls have ears. Follow me. *canters down the hallway*

*Riot openeda door down the hall and the group walked inside. It turned out to be a bathroom. A rather big, very nice one, but a bathroom nonetheless*

Riot: We should be safe to talk here. Dad NEVER uses surveillance spells on the bathrooms.

Double Neck: Surveillance spells?

Riot: Dad can use these weird spells that let him see and hear everything that happens in almost every room in the house and almost anywhere on the grounds. He's why he's so good at his job. Luckily, he never uses them on the bathrooms, because, well...I don't feel the need to say anything else.

Mezmo: Look, Riot, we need you to come back with us. You should've seen Vinyl's face when we showed her your old record… And her jacket…

Riot: Yeah…I gave her that. We came up with the costumes when we started out. *sighs* Those were the days. I had run away from home. Decided to seek my fortune in Stalliongrad. All I had was my guitar and my dream.

Heavy Strings: So now what, you're just your dad's pet now?

Riot: You think I don't wanna leave?! I DO! But I can't. Every time I try, he sends the guards after me. And now…with mom so sick…and the doctors don't know what she has. I can't just abandon my family again.

Mezmo: *sighs* Now what?

Riot: *groans* Right now…I'm gonna do something I should'a done a long time ago. I'm gonna go see my mom.

Power Chord: Do you want us to come with you?

Riot: Thanks, guys. It'll be easier with friends.

*Later, at Canterlot Hospital, The group were standing outside a large private room on the top floor. Riot was poking his head in through the door, levitating a bunch of colorful flowers with his magic*

Riot: We're in luck. Dad's not in the room. C'mon.

*The group entered the room and saw an emerald green Pegasus mare asleep in the bed, the magical equivalent of heart and EKG monitors hooked up to her*

Mezmo: Your mom's…a Pegasus?

Riot: You got a problem with my dad marrying outside our tribe?

Double Neck: Nope.

Heavy Strings: No problems.

Mezmo: Nah, it's cool.

Power Chord: My dad's an Earth Pony.

Riot: *Places the flowers into a crystal vase on the side table* Hi, mom. *gently nuzzles her*

Riot's Mother: *eyes flutter open* Wild…is that you? I'm so happy to see you. *raises her head up and smiles gently at her son* And you've brought friends. Octavia, it's so nice to see you again.

Octavia: Hi, Emerald.

Mezmo: Pleasure to meet you, ma'am.

Emerald: I've been so worried about Wild being alone in the house all day. I'm happy now.

Double Neck: Ma'am… We want your son and the other Stingers to come back to Ponyville for one last concert.

???: Emerald, I'm sorry, but the cafeteria was out of… *sounds of dishes clattering to the floor* what are YOU doing here?!

*The group whirled around to see a snow white unicorn stallion with a silvery-gray mane and tail. On his flank was a cutie mark of two-crossed fencing foils. His mane had been cut into a short Mohawk along his neck and his tail was bobbed. This was Spanish Steel, Riot's father*

Riot: She's MY mother. I'll visit her whenever I want!

Mezmo: *looks to Octavia* Riot's dad?

Octavia: Unfortunately.

Mezmo: Uh-oh…

Spanish Steel: Not if I have anything to say about it. *glares at Octavia and paces a hoof on the floor* And YOU! I told you I won't have you or that other temptress anywhere near my family!

*Spanish Steel's horn blazed with mystic energy, only to be knocked off his hooves and into the wall by Riot's own magic*

Mezmo: *eyes widen* Whoa!

Riot: I have had ENOUGH out of you, you pretentious, suspicious old goat!!

Spanish Steel: *rights himself* So, you stubborn mule, you finally show some backbone! *snorts and charges toward Riot*

*The two stallions clashed in the middle of the room, biting, kicking, and clashing with their horns*

Emerald: No, NO! NO!!! *cries out and her head drops back to the bed, her monitors beeping crazily*

Mezmo: *eyes widen* Oh no!

*A group of doctors and orderlies charge inside, two large unicorns telekinetically PRYING Riot and his father apart*

Doctor: ENOUGH!!! Get these two out of here!

Spanish Steel: That's my wife! You can't do that!

Doctor: I can when your very presence seems to cause this kind of reaction in my patient!

*Mezmo went to pull his wand out from his pocket, but Octavia held out a hoof to stop him*

Mezmo: *looks to Octavia* Huh?

Octavia: Trust me; it'll only make it worse.

Mezmo: But I can help!

Octavia: You wanna help? Follow Riot's dad. I'll head after Riot. Power, Double, Heavy, stay in the waiting room and let us know if there's any change.

Power Chord: You got it.

Heavy Strings: Yes, ma'am!

Double Neck: No problem-o.

Mezmo: Roger.

*Outside the Hospital, Mezmo spotted Spanish Steel plodding his way down the sidewalk towards a small cafe. His head was low and his ears were drooping down. The unicorn, who just moments ago seemed so strong, now just looked old*

Spanish Steel: Doris. *climbs up on a stool* Coffee. Black. And just leave the pot.

Mezmo: *walks into the café and up to Spanish Steel* Mr. Steel?

Spanish Steel: *turns to see Mezmo* Who are you?

Mezmo: My name's Mezmo, sir. I'm friends with Octavia and--

Spanish Steel: Well, what are you doing here?

Mezmo: Take it easy. I come in peace. Look, I know you're angry at your son, but--

Spanish Steel: You don't know half as much as you think you do. I guess it's about time SOMEPONY told you the truth. *sighs* All I ever wanted was a wife, kids, a family. A safe, healthy, NORMAL life. And for a while, I had that. I met the mare of my dreams. When she accepted my proposal, it was the happiest day of my life. Our wedding was the talk of the city for weeks. And when Wild was born.

*A tear trickled from Spanish Steel's eye. He raised a locket Mezmo didn't notice before and opened it. Inside was a picture of a younger Emerald and another of a unicorn foal swaddled in a blue blanket*

Spanish Steel: I keep this locket close to my heart…so I can always remember what I do my duty for. We used to go out into the countryside when Wild was younger. Have picnics. Even then, Wild was…different.

Mezmo: Different?

Spanish Steel: I would try to show him proper swordsmanship, or get him to play with the toy soldiers I bought him…but all he wanted to so was listen to birds tweet. I thought… maybe the Guard would help him get his horn on straight, so…when he was a older, I pulled some strings and got him into the academy. Imagine my shock when I learn my son, a tenth generation guardsman…has run away. Three years. THAT'S how long he was gone. No letters, no calls, no NOTHING and then he just shows up out of the blue, his mane ridiculously long and hanging out with two painted hussies! I HAD to try and stop him! But when I went to his hotel room to talk some sense into him, he attacked me!
*sighs* I don't know where I went wrong with that stallion. Is it wrong to want my son to embrace his family destiny?

Mezmo: To be just like you?

Spanish Steel: Why not? I turned out just like my father and grandfather. LOOK at me. I'm rich, successful, I'm married to a beautiful mare. Would being like me be so wrong?

Mezmo: Well, it sounds to me like you weren't encouraging him to be a swordsman… You were FORCING him to be one.

Spanish Steel: What did you just say to me?

Mezmo: Look, Mr. Steel, from what I've learned all the time I've lived in Ponyville so far, is that a cutie mark cannot be forced upon somepony… That pony has to earn that cutie mark by discovering his or her OWN special talent, not the talent somepony ELSE wants him or her to have.

Spanish Steel: Ugh… I hate that name. In my grandfather's time, it was called a "Soul Mark". Just because Wild had talent in music…it doesn't mean he couldn't still be a Guardstallion and do his duty with pride.

Mezmo: No. That's what YOU want him to be, not what HE wants to be. I mean, did YOU really wanna be in the Royal Guard when you were a foal?

Spanish Steel: It was all I ever wanted. From the time I was old enough to walk, my father regaled me with stories of our ancestors. I knew then and there one day I would be like them. I raised Wild on those same stories…and he turned away from me. *a tear rolls down his cheek* What did I do to deserve that?

Mezmo: I'll tell you what you did… You were trying to make him into an exact copy of yourself, instead of letting him be his own person with his own interests.

Spanish Steel: Like what?! MUSIC?!? The hobby of a weak-minded nag! *drains his mug and drops to his hooves* That boy is a quitter, pure and simple. *storms out*

*Mezmo moved to pursue, but his hand was pinned under the hoof of the mare tending the bar*

Doris: Not without paying for that coffee.

*Mezmo forced his hand out from underneath Doris' hoof and stormed out after Spanish Steel. Suddenly, there is a flash of light. When it faded, Power Chord was standing next to Mezmo, dizzy and panting*

Power Chord: Oh, man. I forgot how much of a drain teleportation is.

Mezmo: What happened?

Power Chord: It's Emerald. She's conscious again.

Mezmo: That's good. What about Riot?

Power Chord: Well, Ock tried to talk to him, but… *knickers* like father, like son, the song goes.

Mezmo: I tried talking to his dad, but he was just too stubborn to listen! *groans* Riot has every right to hate him if you ask me.

Power Chord: Come on, let's get back to the hospital.

*Later, back at the hospital, Mezmo and the others walked into Emerald's room. She was gazing at a portrait of Spanish Steel and herself standing with Riot as a young foal. The family looked happy*

Double Neck: Are you okay, Emerald?

Emerald: Just tired. SO tired of trying to hold together a family dead-set on tearing itself apart.

Octavia: Mezmo…could I talk to you?

Mezmo: What is it?

Octavia: I know what's wrong with Emerald. She's simply heartsick. All this animosity in the ones she loves is tearing her apart. She's losing all will to live.

Mezmo: I thought it was just the band that needed to be brought back together…but now it's so much more than just that. It's not just a band…it's a family.

*Just then, the door opened and Riot walked in. He had a duffle bag slung over his shoulder, the neck of his guitar sticking out of it*

Riot: So…the next train to Ponyville leaves in an hour. We can make it if we hurry.

Octavia: *sees Riot* Riot?

Mezmo: You're…going to play the concert?

Riot: Yeah. I don't care anymore. Let dad rant and rave all he wants. I don't care what he wants. I'm a musician and I'm proud of my talent. So there. *Walks over to Emerald and nuzzles her* Bye, mom. I'll keep in touch.

Emerald: Wild… *smiles* Go. Live your dreams.

Heavy Strings: Well, come on! What are we waitin' for? We got a concert to put on!!

Riot: Yeah… After so many years…I say it's about time The Stingers made a comeback!

*Octavia, quietly slipped an envelope onto Emerald's bedside table before joining the others*

*Later, back at Ponyville, Vinyl was sweeping the floor of her shop, looking both tired and frustrated*

Vinyl Scratch: THIS is why they say don't work with friends. I don't remember giving anyone the day off. *grumbles under her breath*

*Just then, Mezmo, Power Chord, Heavy Strings, and Double Neck came walking into the shop*

Mezmo: Vinyl, we're back!

Vinyl Scratch: And it's about time, you good-for-nothing primate! If any of you think you're not getting a pay dock from this, you are SO wrong!

???: Jeez, Vinyl, is that really you? You sound more like my dad!

Vinyl Scratch: *drops the broom* That voice…. *lowers her shades* Riot? Is that YOU?!

Riot: *comes walking into the shop, smiling* Who were you expecting, Shining Armor?

Vinyl Scratch: RIOT!!! *gallops over to the stallion and embraces him* I can't believe it!

Riot: Hey, Minx. Sorry it's been so long.

Vinyl Scratch: I can't believe it! *looks at the others* Guys, how did you EVER...

Double Neck: It's a LONG story, Vi.

Heavy Strings: Well, come on! Let's get to the stage! We've got a concert to put on!

Vinyl Scratch: Wait! What?!

???: You heard him.

*Just then, Octavia came walking into the shop, surprisingly dressed in her old Stingers jacket*

Vinyl Scratch: Octie? You KEPT that thing?

Octavia: Please. Like anyone would find it. I have two dozen closets in my house to hide it in.

Mezmo: Octavia helped us convince Riot to come back. We wanted to reunite The Stingers…so we could make you happy…like the good old days.

Vinyl Scratch: Awww… You guys! *hugs Mezmo and noogies him with a hoof* But you are NOT off the hook for cutting out of work.

Power Chord: Sorry about that, boss, but we had to in order to make this happen. If you want, you can take it out of our paychecks.

Heavy Strings: What?!

Mezmo: We don't mind. *looks to Heavy Strings* Do we, Heavy?

Heavy Strings: Well, actually. GEH… *winces from Double Neck stepping on his hoof* No. No problem at all.

*A while later, at the Ponyville Outdoor Stage, The Stingers were setting up their equipment. Each one was wearing a dark blue cloak over their costumes to avoid giving themselves away*

Octavia: I can't believe you remember how to do the color-change spell, Vinyl.

Vinyl Scratch: It comes in handy for some of my wilder DJ jobs.

Riot: I'm just glad you never do it to me. I'm lucky my coloration makes my mane NATURALLY white-blonde.

Vinyl Scratch: Yeah, keep telling yourself that, Riot.

Mezmo: *walks up to them* So, you guys almost ready?

Octavia: Almost. There's just one thing I feel like we've…  Hmm… *eyes widen* Now I remember! We don't have a song to sing!

Vinyl Scratch: Oh my gosh, she's right!

Riot: We don't have a new song for the concert?!

Octavia: I suppose we could dig something out, but...oh, we've had zero time to prepare. What were we thinking?!

Mezmo: Hmm… *snaps his fingers, giving off a few volts of electricity* I got it! OW!!! I hate it when I do that! Uh, anyway, I'll be right back! *runs off the stage*

Riot: You girls have made some…odd friends since we broke up.

Vinyl Scratch: Tell me about it.

*A few minutes later, Ponies began gathering in front of the stage as The Stingers stand around, nervously tuning their instruments*

Riot: Look, I think we can at least remember "Destiny", right? If Mezmo doesn't show up soon, I say we just start with that and see if we can still do it.

Vinyl Scratch: Where IS he anyway?

*Just then, Mezmo came running up onto the stage with a record in his hand that read "Best of Bonnie Tyler*

Mezmo: Here I am! And I've got the perfect song for you guys! *shows them the record*

Riot: No way. I do NOT lip-synch.

Octavia: Who's Bonnie Tyler?

Mezmo: Look, don't worry, I'll play it so that only the music and the chorus can be heard. You guys just fill-in the rest.

Vinyl Scratch: But we don't know the words!

Mezmo: *takes out a sheet of paper from his pocket and hands it to Vinyl* Here are the lyrics. Just read them as the song plays and you'll do fine.

Vinyl Scratch: I got it.

*Vinyl gripped the paper in a field of magic from her horn and concentrated. Suddenly, two more identical sheets of paper appeared next to it*

Mezmo: *pause* I seriously need to learn that spell.

Vinyl Scratch: Ah, it's easy. Comes in real handy when I'm running short on stock. I'll show ya sometime.

Double Neck: *flies in from above* Guys, get ready! You're on in twenty seconds!

Mezmo: Ooh, I better get ready! *runs off toe the side of the stage*

Riot: Well…here we go. *walks up to the microphone* PONYVILLE… I…AM…RIOT!!! *tosses aside his cloak, revealing his yellow and black coat* AND THE STINGERS ARE BACK!!!

*Vinyl and Octavia tossed aside their own cloaks, revealing their own Stingers jackets*

Vinyl Scratch: *looks to the far side of the stage* Okay, guys, just like I showed ya!

*At the far side of the stage, Mezmo and Power Chord had set up Vinyl's synthesizer. Mezmo placed his record on the turntable while Power Chord fiddled with the various switches and dials*

Power Chord: You got it, boss.

Mezmo: How do you work this thing anyway?

Power Chord: Leave it to me. You don't play dozens of gigs with ol' DJ PON-3 out there without learning a thing or two about how to work this system she made.

Mezmo: Well hurry up and play the song then!

Power: *uses a hoof to slide a final dial* That should do it. The audience will hear only the music and chorus. The lyrics are up to Riot and the others now. *levitates the needle to the record*

Mezmo: *smiles* Showtime!

*Soon, "Holding Out For A Hero" by Bonnie Tyler could be heard pumping from the speakers set up around the stage. The ponies in the audience began to nod their heads and stomp their hooves to the intoxicating rhythm. Vinyl looked nervously out at the audience, took a deep breath and began to sing*

Vinyl Scratch: *singing* Where have all the good men gone
And where are all the gods?
Where's the street-wise Hercules
To fight the rising odds?
Isn't there a white knight upon a fiery steed?

Vinyl Scratch & Octavia: *singing* Late at night I toss and I turn and I dream of what I need

Vinyl Scratch: *singing* I need a hero
I'm holding out for a hero 'til the end of the night
He's gotta be strong
And he's gotta be fast
And he's gotta be fresh from the fight
I need a hero
I'm holding out for a hero 'til the morning light
He's gotta be sure
And it's gotta be soon
And he's gotta be larger than life
Larger than life

*By now, the audience were cheering and stamping wildly to the music and Vinyl's amazing singing voice. Just then, Octavia began to sing*

Octavia: *singing* Somewhere after midnight
In my wildest fantasy
Somewhere just beyond my reach
There's someone reaching back for me
Racing on the thunder and rising with the heat

Vinyl Scratch & Octavia: *singing* It's gonna take a superman to sweep me off my feet

Vinyl Scratch: *singing* I need a hero
I'm holding out for a hero 'til the end of the night
He's gotta be strong
And he's gotta be fast
And he's gotta be fresh from the fight
I need a hero
I'm holding out for a hero 'til the morning light
He's gotta be sure
And it's gotta be soon
And he's gotta be larger than life

I need a hero
I'm holding out for a hero 'til the end of the night

Mezmo: Wow, I never knew Octavia or Vinyl could sing like that!!

Power Chord: You should really listen to the rest of that album we found.

Mezmo: Maybe later! Right now, I just wanna finish hearing this!!

*Riot levitated his guitar and began to play along with the music on the record. As he did so, the mares in the audience began to scream and hold up their forehooves to him*

Double Neck: *watching from the sidelines* Wow! He sure hasn't lost it.

Vinyl Scratch: *singing* Up where the mountains meet the heavens above
Out where the lightning splits the sea
I could swear that there's someone somewhere
Watching me

Octavia: *singing* Through the wind and the chill and the rain
And the storm and the flood
I can feel his approach
Like the fire in my blood

Mezmo & Power Chord: *singing* Like the fire in my blood
Like the fire in my blood
Like the fire in my blood
Like the fire in my BLOOD!!!

Vinyl Scratch: *singing* I need a hero
I'm holding out for a hero 'til the end of the night
He's gotta be strong
And he's gotta be fast
And he's gotta be fresh from the fight
I need a hero
I'm holding out for a hero 'til the morning light
He's gotta be sure
And it's gotta be soon
And he's gotta be larger than life

I need a hero
I'm holding out for a hero 'til the end of the night
He's gotta be strong
And he's gotta be fast
And he's gotta be fresh from the fight
I need a hero
I'm holding out for a hero 'til the morning light
He's gotta be sure
And it's gotta be soon
And he's gotta be larger than life

I need a hero
I'm holding out for a hero 'til the end of the night

Mezmo: WHOO!!! YEAH!!!

*As the song came to an end, everypony was so busy cheering and applauding, they didn't notice Spanish Steel cantering down into the town square, a very cross look twisting his face*

Heavy Strings: Oh, bad days ahead, my friends.

Mezmo: Why? What's wrong? Don't you hear that audience cheering?

Heavy Strings: Check it! Riot's pop is making a beeline for us!

Mezmo: Huh? *looks out to see Spanish Steel walking up to the stage* Oh no…

Double Neck: If they fight again, Emerald might die from the heartache.

Mezmo: And I thought it was going so well…

Octavia: *walks over to Riot* Riot… I think it's time you sang that song you wrote for your dad.

Riot: Right.

Vinyl Scratch: What? You guys DID have a song? Why didn't you say so earlier?

Octavia: I wasn't sure Spanish Steel would read my note and show up.

Vinyl Scratch: You INVITED him here?!

Octavia: The only way to end this hatred is for Steel to SEE Riot's talent. To SEE how happy it makes everypony.

Vinyl Scratch: *sighs* I hope you know what you're doing…

*Riot began to strum out a ballad on his guitar*

Riot: *singing* Let me be,
Let me be the man I'm meant to be
Let me be, though I may not suit you perfectly
Set me free to follow my own star
Let me be
Can't you see, we are who we are

*The cheering of the crowd grew quiet as the ponies settled to listen. Steel's angry march stopped and his ears moved forward*

Riot: *singing* There's no room to grow, and love to show
We'll make it you and me
All I ask of you is, let me be

Let me grow
Let me show you more of what I know
Let me fly
Let me touch your heart and make you cry

*Steel sat down, remembering days long past. Courting Emerald. The birth of their son. The many happy days spent just running wildly with his son through grass and sunshine*

Riot: *singing* Set me free
To find my own star
Set me free
Can't you see, we are who we are

*During the song, the unicorns in the audience stood and reared, igniting their horns. Afterwards, Riot lowered his guitar and bowed his head; the audience cheering and stomping wildly*

Vinyl Scratch: *a tear streams down her cheek* That was beautiful…

Riot: Thanks, Minx. I've been working on it a long time.

*After the concert, Steel was sitting under a tree in the park, looking at families with children walking past. He could only lower his head in shame*

Vinyl Scratch: *walks up to him* Mr. Steel, I'm sorry you had to find out this way, but…you needed to see it for yourself.

Spanish Steel: All these years. I've wronged my son so badly. Called him weak. A quitter.

Octavia: *walks up* Sir, he'd never tell you, but for the first six months our band was together, we were playing for pennies on the sidewalks of Stalliongrad. There were days we wanted to call it quits, but Riot wouldn't let us! That was because he learned to never quit…from you.

Spanish Steel: What? Your band got where it was because of me? Well…I'm not at all sure how to feel about that.

Vinyl Scratch: Yeah. Without the stories you told him about your ancestors, Riot wouldn't have had the drive to leave home and follow his dreams.

Spanish Steel: Wild, why didn't you ever tell me?

Riot: You wouldn't let me.

Spanish Steel: Son…I'm sorry. I was wrong. You have a wonderful gift, and I never should have denied it.

Riot: I forgive you, dad.

*Later, at Canterlot hospital, The Stingers, Spanish Steel, Mezmo, and his friends were gathered around in Emerald's room*

Emerald: *wakes up to see Steel and Riot standing over her* Am I still dreaming?

Spanish Steel: No, dear. For the first time, this sight is real, I promise.

Riot: We're sorry we acted so selfishly, mom. But now our hatred is gone, and you can get better.

Emerald: I will.

Double Neck: *sniffs and grabs Heavy Strings in a hug* I just love happy endings.

Heavy Strings: Yeah…me too. *pats Double Neck on the shoulder*

Vinyl Scratch: Mezmo… You are SO getting a raise for this! *smiles*

Mezmo: Hey, it's the least I could do, Vinyl. Afterall, you're not just my boss...you're my friend.

Vinyl Scratch: Good to hear, man. *holds out a hoof* C'mon. Don't leave me hangin'.

Mezmo: *holds out a fist and bumps it with Vinyl's hoof* I'd never leave you hangin'.

Vinyl Scratch: And I know that now.

*Vynyl's horn flashes. Mezmo looks down to see his tunic is now yellow with black stripes on the sleeves*

Mezmo: Wow! Look at my coat! I look like one of The Stingers!

Power Chord: Whoa! Awesome!

Vinyl Scratch: Hey, it's the least I can do. You got our band back together...and reunited a family. *chuckles* If being a wizard doesn't work out for ya, kid, maybe you should try for a career as a counselor.

Mezmo: *smiles* Thanks, Vinyl. *hugs her* I'll take it into consideration.

*At that moment, Mezmo began thinking of what he would write to Princess Celestia for his friendship report*

*Dear Princess Celestia,

Some friendships don't last forever. It is a sad but very true fact of life. Some friendships, however, can withstand any test put before them, be it time, distance or bias. I think those who have friendships like this are doubly blessed.

Your faithful student's faithful student,

Mezmo A. Mandrake*