Chapter Text
Dan’s POV
"Oh my god I haven't seen you in forever!"
Oh my god can you not...
"We have to do another video sometime."
Dan continued to ignore the vlogger playing an obscure mashup on the piano. He liked to try playing modern music as classically as possible at public venues. He couldn't help but think that even if someone noticed his taste in music, the amplified classical tone wouldn't lead them to realize it was the same as D.H. The Piano Man. Ever since he started his anonymous channel he'd been terrified that someone would recognize him despite him being careful never to show his face. Till then he would just have to live with the risk when playing venues.
"Ah! AmazingPhil come be in my vlog"
"Hey Louise, and hey guys!"
He hated this venue. VidCon was always full of people putting on a show for more viewers and yet every year Dan still showed up. Originally, he was asked to reveal his identity but readily declined. He still doesn't understand why they think he'd be associated with vloggers. His channel was solely for his music and just because he has a large following doesn't mean he has any desire to show his face. He wanted to be liked for his music and not his face. Plus, his overwhelming anxiety and awkwardness also provide some motivation to stay hidden.
Eventually, they gave up on an identity reveal and offered for him to just show up as a regular piano player for background entertainment. That was far more in Dan's element. So, since they had asked, Dan showed up and played well-disguised Fallout Boy and Muse songs amongst other things. No one particularly listened but at least he got paid.
Song after song played on and really once you block out the people's chattering it wasn't too bad. The night went on like this till it finally came to an end as people filtered out.
"Thanks for playing again, mate."
Dan turned to one of the staff members and gave a tired smile.
"No problem. I'll see you again next year,"
He waved the man goodbye before heading out but not before noticing something in one of the potted plants that the organizers thought would "enhance the decoration experience." He picked up the object.
Huh, that's a bit odd.
"Hey Rick, do you know what this is doing here?" Dan said turning back to the staff member.
"No clue but I guess it's yours now."
"That it is... well you have a good one."
Dan looked back down at the object. Somehow the little stuffed lion seemed oddly familiar.