A Search For Something More

Chapter 30: The Magic of Music

Thankfully, Caramel turned out to be just fine the day after we pruned the trees. He went on and on to me and Soarin how hospitable the Apple family is and how Applejack, in particular, was especially keeping an eye on him, which he mentioned with a blissful look on his face. Soarin scolded him for being hopeful again, but I have the feeling that all three of us know that something is up with Applejack's feelings for Caramel. I especially have been growing hopeful after my talk with Sunset when we were walking back to her apartment, but just like with the New Year's Eve party, I kept it from Soarin and Caramel in case we're wrong.

It's currently the Monday after the tree pruning, and the day goes like a regular day until lunchtime as I collect my lunch from Granny Smith, and I walk over to my table with Soarin, Caramel, Sonata, and the Rainbooms. We all eat and talk about our school day so far as usual until Rainbow Dash clears her throat to get everyone's attention.

"So boys...and Sonata," She begins, making sure that she has Sonata's attention as she is devouring a large plate of tacos. "We have some news that we would like the four of you to be the first to know, and we have a favor to ask you."

Caramel, Soarin, Sonata, and I turn to her intently as smiles of excitement are plastered on Rainbow Dash, Applejack, Pinkie Pie, Fluttershy, Rarity, and Sunset Shimmer's faces.

"The Rainbooms have a gig at the Crystal Pavilion!" Rainbow Dash screams excitedly.

For a moment, nothing is said as I, Sonata, Caramel, and Soarin stare at her and the other Rainbooms in surprise. The Crystal Pavilion is a popular place in downtown Crystal City. It's a big concert hall that is expensive to get a permit to perform at, but it's also a perfect place for music bands and artists to be recognized. For a high school band like the Rainbooms, it may as well be as big as performing on Bridleway in Manehattan.

"For-for realzies?" Sonata asks, still stunned. "The Crystal Pavilion is such a big thing that my sisters and I would have killed to perform there with or without our siren powers."

"Yeah, how in the world did you guys get a gig at a place like that?" Caramel asks.

"Well, have you heard of the teenage boy band Open Skies and Fancy Pants?" Rarity asks, and we nod in response. "Well, one of them has a filthy rich father who wants them to perform a real concert. That includes having a band to open for them, and they like what they heard about us from the Battle of the Bands, so we're going to perform a couple of our songs!" she finishes squealing in excitement.

Once again, the four of us stare at the Rainbooms in disbelief until Soarin finally speaks.

"That...is...AWESOME!!!!" He screams. "I'm overly excited about this! When are you guys performing?"

"This Friday," Rainbow Dash answers. "This is where the favor comes in. We're allowed to bring ten people for free, and we're planning to ask my dad, Cheese Sandwich, the crusaders, and Big Mac, and now we're asking you four to be among the ten."

We look at them even more bewildered.

"Really?" I finally ask. "You want us - want me to see you guys perform at the Crystal Pavilion?"

Rainbow Dash scoffs amused.

"Yes, you big nerd," she says. "Who else are we referring to?"

"I think what Rainbow Dash is trying to say is that it would mean a lot to us if you came," Sunset Shimmer says calmly. "We're going to be working hard to put on a good show over the next few days, and we would really appreciate your support."

I look at Sunset Shimmer and smile at her before I say, "Well, how can anyone say no to that? I'm in."

Sunset Shimmer gives me a grateful smile that I return before Caramel speaks.