Ask Step Lock

Hello! I am Step Lock, maestro of Canterlot's very own Royal Orchestra...have you any inquiries? Step Lock reference

[sincerely-chaos]

To all the fic writers out there that are not currently writing. Either it's because of RL, health, writer's block or something has happened that have disheartened you. Thank you for what you've written, and don't ever feel pressured or stressed - fanfic should be something good for all of us; both reader and writer. You're more important than what you do, but thank you for what you've done!

[tortagnamgnam]

This is the lucky clover cat. reblog this in 30 seconds & he will bring u good luck and fortune.

[unclebabie]

THIS ONE!!! THIS IS THE ONE THAT WORKS!!!!!

I reblogged him the day i started treatment and 1. GOT TO MY APPOINTMENT ON TIME 2. FOUND A FREE PARKING TICKET SOMEONE LEFT IN THE METER FOR ME AND 3. GOT FREE STARBUCKS AFTER MY APPOINTMENT!!!!!

[cutedemonbabe]

I’m convinced bc I reblogged this on Friday, got hired at a job I had a million interviews for, went on a first date that went well, and got kissed a billion times so like hell ya to the luck cat

[wilwheaton]

COME ON HAMILTON TICKETS LET’S DO THIS CLOVER CAT.

[ask-step-lock]

Rest in peace.

[ask-step-lock]

I never knew Rusty Nail personally.

I had a few conversations with him at Bronycons past: he was certainly a kind soul, a hard worker with a smile on his face and a love for his fans, drink, and friends alike.

I give condolences to his family, and while I don’t drink normally, I’ll pour a Vodka shot for you.

Thank you for everything, Rusty Nail. Where ever you are, I know you’ll bring as many smiles as you did in this lifetime.

Rest in peace.

[ask-step-lock]

Bronycon was a fun con. The size was smaller, the artist's hall seemed HELLA SMALLER, I took all of two pictures that weren't of myself, and I had depression pounding me like a goddamned truck filled with anvils at the end of day two... But all that aside, this fan base is still relatively friendly in person, people were nice, artists are really talented (shoutouts to dennybutt, askskylark, @slugbox, God, a shitton more I can't think of at the moment [the one that I bought Space Gem poster comes to mind, that's a great one])... It might cost me a pretty penny to go, but just getting to hang with friends, meet new people (even if I have the confidence of a mouse staring down a tiger), and get away from NY for five days or so...it's nice. Thanks, @bronycon. If I don't arrive next year, it's probably because I'll be physically better and able to attend school. But I hope I get to go anyway. Cheers.

[ask-step-lock]

An explanation.

More people follow this blog than Protege, so I guess it makes sense.

I haven’t been writing for Professionalism in a long, long while. I want to! But planning things have been rough given depression and physical issues, and a lot of other life stuff. I’ve since scrapped Professionalism as it was on Fimfic, and will post it there and here when it is ready in weekly intervals.

As for where I’ve been? I’ve been on a different blog. For those of you that are interested in RWBY, and for those interested in OCs, you can follow Oxidation-Corundum for more of my writing as a roleplayer.

I come here now and again, remember all the friends I’ve made, what the pony fandom has done for me...I can’t thank all of you enough just for doing what you do: you’re creative people, and being surrounded with that creative energy does wonders.

For those that are attending, I’ll be heading to Bronycon 2016! If you see someone with a suit and a conductor’s baton, don’t hesitate to give me a wave (or punch me in the face, either or)!

So...thank you. I might not be writing here much anymore, but I hope you guys will follow me where I go, and most importantly, keep creating.

Protege out.

[ask-step-lock]

Hello. What would it take to bring your orchestra to the Green Hive for a rally?

Stepfidgeted a little, rubbing the back of his neck. “Well, thereare a few problems...namely, our performances as a Orchestra arelimited to Canterlot. We can’t really travel anywhere as a group onofficial business, but the benefits we get here are nice enough.” The stallionwalked over to the Changeling, sitting down next to the future Queenand taking out his conducting baton, idly starting to twirlit.“WhileI can’t arrange for the Orchestra to play for you all, regardlessof your contributions to the cause of ridding the land of threats,you’re more than welcome in Canterlot! Just a warning, though; guards and Princesses alike will keep an eye on your group.” Themaestro grimaced as he set the conducting baton down, gently patting the future Queen’s back. “I’m afraid that Changelings have received a bad reputation, and while I’m of a firm belief thatbehavior is entirely determined on upbringing...well, threats are threats, no matter the size.” Politely bowing, he grabbed the conducting baton, placing it back into his suit pocket. “You’ve my apologies in advance if others act...unwelcoming, and I wish you luck in the election to come.”[Thanks to elect-dotexe for the ask! Check the Changeling out and ask a few questions!]

[ask-step-lock]

Oh, gosh! It's an honor to m-meet you, Mister Lock! Do you have any advice for young musicians just starting out?

The stallion tapped his chin, a small chuckle escaping his lips as he looked at the little mare. “A few pieces of advice, yes…first and foremost, there’s a saying that persistence is the key to every pursuit; that rings true for music as well.”Sitting down on a bench, he pat the open space next to him, inviting her to sit. “However, there’s something even more important than persistence. Coming from someone who worked hard to get to this position, it’s key to everyone, most importantly the musician, to recognize why one decides to take up music.” Reaching into the suit pocket on his chest, he pulled out his conductor’s baton: metal flames were engraved into it’s length, and it held a ghostly white aura…“I chose this path because I felt free in front of the musicians I worked with. Young. Old. It didn’t matter to me; these were ponies of importance, and they strove to do their best in front of an audience…and as a maestro, I help guide them, both as performers and as fellow mortals.” Step redirected his gaze toward the miniature equine with a small smile.“I’m digressing a bit, but to summarize, know why you play. If you realize that you play to enjoy music, to spread the sounds that can be created, for any reason that doesn’t pertain to merely earning fame or fortune, then by all means, you have my blessing. When you figure that out…it’s a matter of persistence. Practice, and practice well.” He pulled out a small bag from another pocket, handing the inquirer ten bits and placing the conducting baton back into the suit pocket.“Thank you for asking; we need more aspiring musicians in this world. So long as you persist in your endeavor, anything can be achieved.” His hoof went to her white mane, giving it a small ruffle.[I honestly hadn’t expected an ask! Thank you, ask-the-little-misfit-filly!]

[ask-the-protege]

Bronycon!

For those that want to meet me, you can find me wandering around in a suit, holding a conducting baton with my hair gelled upward; shouldn’t be too hard to spot! I look forward to seeing you there.

[ask-step-lock]

[A message from the mod of this humble little blog! If you see me, please, don’t be shy; I might be out of breath or look irritated/sad, but I’m always up for a chat. See you all there?]

[ask-the-protege]

Canterlot seemed to sparkle and shine this night; the city of the Goddesses, capital of Equestria, and generally a rather nice vacation spot (if one had the coin). Canterlot was many things; however, many could agree that the one thing Canterlot wasn’t was a “safe zone”. Gossip about everyone and...

[ask-step-lock]

[The companion piece to “The Wasp” from yesterday’s modpost. Dedicated to fleurmod!]

[ask-the-protege]

The deed was done. The target was assassinated, unable to be convinced to be converted to a butler (a shame, really) and unwilling to turn himself in. The stage at the end of Canterlot’s nearly vacant ballroom had two figures; one of whom was once a corrupt noble, now reduced to a bleeding...

[ask-step-lock]

[Something from the mind of the mod!]

[ask-the-protege]

An explanation.

Hello, everyone. It’s been a while…and I believe I owe an explanation. I’ve been ill since…late March, I believe it was, I’ve been suffering from dyspnea, chest pains, abdominal pains…to make it brief, I’ve been a wreck. Doctors everywhere tell me I’m physically fine, so I believe it’s something to do with my voice (understandable, given that I probably overdid myself at my school of music audition: I’m a vocalist). I’ll hopefully get that checked out. That aside, college has left me both busy and stressed in combination with my dyspnea and other problems, and I’ve had depression about it. Writing hasn’t come easy, either; I’ve struggled to find a starting point for the next chapter, but I’m pushing myself to write a bit now.

I can’t give a guarantee, but I hope to put something out by the end of the month. Thanks for being patient.

[ask-the-protege]

Lingering Dissonance

The dissonance lingers on. Chapter 5 is now available for viewing on Fimfiction.

http://www.fimfiction.net/story/214955/professionalism

[ask-step-lock]

Lingering Dissonance, Parts 2+3

Step smiled, seeing the rest of the Orchestra standing in front of a fountain in a rather large area:nobles were everywhere, crowding the streets as they walked in and out of the shops nearby (probably to buy some gaudy dress for some exclusive party or another). Large streetlights emitted a warm orange glow to match the setting sun, illuminating the four musicians as he walked up to them.“Welcome to Canterlot Square: our usual meetup place when it comes to rehearsals! It's kinda like Canterlot's hub; you can get just about anywhere from here. Given that you basically traveled a straight line, I'm sure you know that already.” Harpo smiled warmly, patting the maestro's shoulder as he passed the maestro a note from Beauty Brass. Finding your new home to be pleasant? You have our apologies for not joining you in exploring it; we had other things to take care of for the night. The trumpeter bowed, Step shaking his head.

“You've no need to apologize; if you had your own obligations to tend to, that was your business. If you don't want to go somewhere, as much as I can order it, I won't force it on any of you.” The statement earned the maestro a small glance from Frederic, who seemed to be a little annoyed at effectively being dragged out by social convention.

Even seeing that in his peripheral vision made the maestro a little unnerved, attention snapping back to the other members. “The house itself is a good size for two, but I'm sure I could fit all of you in there for a...bit of a crowded rehearsal, but a rehearsal.” Still feeling Frederic's gaze running him through, he shook his head and refocused himself.

“In any case, I'm sure you're all wondering why I've gathered you here.” Immediately, Frederic stepped forward, looking the maestro in the eyes with a coldness; as though he were just another threat, ready to be neutralized. “Princess Luna said that the bonds in this group were a little tense, so...I decided that it might be beneficial if we all went to dinner together. I don't have a tremendous amount of bits, but if it wouldn't be trouble...” Octavia paused for a moment, eyes blank as though she were processing the information she was received before beginning to inquire something:

“If that was your intention, could you not have asked earlier? Had any of us been busy with practice or other such prior engagements, your entire plan would have fallen through.” The maestro shook his head.

“Not necessarily...I only had Lyra tell you to meet here; whether or not any of you came was up to you. I may be your leader, but I'm certainly not your commander: I'll earn that with respect in time.” Step looked over to the castle with a smile. “Now, I've reserved a restaurant near the Castle. I hear only good things of it, and thought it wouldn't be a bad idea.” Just as eager as she was in Manehattan, Lyra skipped forward with the thought of food in her mind.

At least, until she questioned why she was feeling her hooves hit nothing but air. A yellow magic aura had surrounded Lyra as a white stallion with a blonde mane approached the group with an inexplicably annoying smile, his horn lit the same yellow color. Stopping, he released his telekinetic grip on the lyre player to look down at the maestro. “What have we here...? Another servant for the royals?” Step simply raised an eyebrow at the noble. Prince Blueblood. Every mare in Equestria dreams of being with him...this is a splendid first introduction. Charming. Stepping forward, the maestro bowed politely. “Pardon me, I don't think we've met. I'm the newly appointed maestro of the Royal Orchestra: Step Lock.” He turned to the other members of the Orchestra, who were demonstrating the spectrum of annoyed stares. Frederic seemed far more irritated than usual, stepping next to the maestro and silently glaring at the royal, while Octavia seemed ready to grab her cello bow and play someone's funeral dirge. Harpo seemed to ignore Blueblood, while Brass' normally smiling face turned into a rather unamused, stoic look. Lyra, however, seemed ready to laugh off the noble's antics without a second thought (despite the small bruise on her stomach).

“Do keep your pets under your leash, Mr. Lock. I'm sure you all know the punishment for assaulting nobility, yes?” Without any warning, Blueblood's horn lit up once more, nudging Lyra toward the group with a rough push before leaving the group to their stewing rage.

Step carefully supported the lyre player, who rolled her eyes in response.  “Thanks, newbie. Now, dinner...” “You're not going to tell me about Prince...” The stallion could feel the group's rage spread to him, his body tense with anger toward the uncouth “gentlecolt”.

This wasn't my reason to take everyone out. Emotions are like diseases; when you enter a room with one, it'll spread like a sickness. A little calmer, he turned to look at the group, about ready to get into a scrap. I suppose it's good that they're in tune with something, at least. But anger isn't going to get us anywhere. “We can discuss this later, everyone.” As the maestro started to walk, he looked over at the group with a small smile.

Seeing Lyra walk past him, Step slowly followed her lead. “I asked you all out here so that we could enjoy the night together, yes? Let's not let this unfortunate incident get in the way of that.” Turning to face Lyra, the stallion soon heard the 4 ponies trotting behind him, and couldn't help but smile as he looked at the restaurant in the distance.

[ask-the-protege]

Visit Original Link

The composition I spoke of earlier; It’s a small thing that craptasticarts hummed on a whim. I liked the melody, so I decided “Why not arrange this for piano and voice?” After getting her permission, I sat down for roughly 4 hours straight until I was done. For someone who’s never taken music theory, I’m relatively satisfied with the result; the left hand feels like it drones on, using the same three chords…who knows? Maybe I’ll come back to this. Anyway, I hope you enjoy it, craptasticarts! I had a bit of fun making this, so I hope this won’t kill your eardrums, heh. The original, sung version can be found here: http://craptasticarts.tumblr.com/post/109316985378/shadows-are-harmless-they-dance-in-the-night

[ask-step-lock]

[Whoops, reblog. Mainly for the link.]

[ask-the-protege]

I’m afraid there won’t be an update before school starts. My motivation has just…plummeted. You all have my sincere apologies; I’ll try to get something out by the end of the month, I just… Writer’s block. It’s the worst possible thing, it really is. I won’t be quite leaving you all empty handed; I did an arrangement of a piece for a friend of a friend, and will be posting it tomorrow. …I apologize for the lack of updates.

[ask-the-protege]

I’m starting to realize that while setting a concrete date for updates is something that drives me, it oftentimes also feels like I have a bit of a constraint: “I need to get this update out on Thursday.”, “I have to get it up.”, thoughts like that cross my mind quite frequently when I have an...