Vinyl sighed dramatically as she stood, arms out, weighed down by a colorful array of clothes. Symphony busied herself inside the massive closet just behind the DJ, lips spilling forth inane ramblings as she thought out loud, an action not unnoticed by the two-tone jockey. Grunting as another piece of clothing was draped over her arm, Vinyl absently sucked her teeth before shaking her head at the violinist.

"You know, Symph, this whole thing could be done without me standing her like a damn fashion-challenged scarecrow."

Gasping, Symphony stuck her head around the doorframe, teal eyes wide.

"And have them wrinkle on the bed? I don't think so!"

"They're wrinkling hanging off of me!"

Fully exiting the closet, Symphony shook her head at the jockey before scanning the many items hanging off the fidgety musician, eyes flicking from piece to piece. She made a grand show of removing just a few garments before patting the DJ's head patronizingly, sweet smile gracing her lips as she turned to reenter the massive space.

"There. Now quit your complaining. I'm going on another tour, I have to know what to pack for my down time."

Bouncing from foot to foot, Vinyl grumbled, nostrils flaring as yet another dress was placed over her arm.

"You won't have much down time, Strings. You're going to be wearing a performance tuxedo for most of your time, then pajamas, and maybe some bum clothes for travel. What the hell do you need so many outfits for??"

Passing an irritated look to the impatient jockey, Symphony exhaled sharply.

"We're having a small reception in our honor when we get to New York. So I need a dress for that. Then the entire Orchestra has been invited to a performance by the Philly Orchestra, and that means I need a dress for that."

Rolling her eyes, Vinyl again shifted from foot to foot.

"Okay, so that's two things that require formal attire. What about--"

"Oh, for Celestia's sake. The items on your left arm are dresses I'm torn between. The items on your right arm are other outfits for the passing of time. My pajamas are already packed and my suit is prepped and ready to go. We're going to be gone for three weeks, Vinyl, a girl has priorities."

Vinyl smirked at the violinist, amused that she could so easily annoy the fiery woman. She shrugged, finally giving in and remained standing quietly. Thanking her graciously, Symphony again disappeared into the closet before returning moments later, a final garment across her arm. Stopping before the other woman, she sized up the chaotically organized clothes before beginning her pacing, lips curling in thought.

For a long moment, Vinyl simply watched the woman sort through the clothes before a small chuckle escaped her parted lips. Flashing an irritated glare upward, the violinist pinned her with an annoyed stare.

"What?"

"Nothing. You're cute when you have no idea what to do. So can I help you or am I just a glorified coat hanger?"

Snickering to herself, she nodded. Vinyl then shifted the less important clothes to the bed, earning a disproving, yet allowing, frown from the lavender-haired player. Shifting the dresses and their hangers to her hand, she held them up before her, red eyes moving over them with careful consideration. Bouncing her vision upward, she smiled at her long-time friend.

"You only need two dresses, yeah?"

"Yes, just two. I want a professional look, but I also--"

"You want sophisticated, yet tantalizing. I know how you are, Symph."

The two women shared a knowing smile before Vinyl plucked two dresses from the overly large pile. Holding both up, she nodded and presented them.

"The black should be for New York. Elegant, but saucy. The plum can be for Philly, because it accentuates your hair color and fits you perfectly."

Symphony laughed at the commentary, teal eyes crinkling with joy.

"Vinyl Scratch, are you secretly a gay man?"

"Nope. I love the ladies, and the ladies love me."

Pleased with the jockey's assessment, the violinist placed the two dresses on the hook inside the closet door. Turning her attention back to the remaining clothes, she passed an amused look to the two-tone spinner.

"Okay, so what about travel and other means throughout the days?"

Vinyl waved off the question and flopped down on the bed beside the large stack of clothing.

"You can just wear whatever you want. It's not like you haven't traveled with these people before. You should just be as comfortable as possible, screw trying to be fashionable."

"Vinyl, maybe you couldn't care less about your outfit choices, but we're a World-famous group of musicians. I'd like for my appearance to reflect that."

"Then wear your designer jeans and some classy shirts. Don't forget your coat, you're going up North for a bit and you tend to get cold if it drops below 80 degrees."

Her tone was teasing, red eyes alight with her trademark snark. Symphony casually whipped a shirt at the DJ before rooting through her clothes, eyebrows drawing as she sorted. Vinyl sat back on the bed and watched, content to simply offer bits of advice or opinions as the violinist worked. Tilting her head, Vinyl smiled at the other woman, pierced eyebrow rising in amusement as she followed the pacing musician with her eyes. For long minutes the pair sat in silence, each absorbed within their own thoughts; Symphony passed her sights to Vinyl after a while, teal eyes softening as she regarded the jockey.

"Hey, V, thanks for coming over so early. You know I get twitchy before I have to travel."

Smiling, the DJ nodded before reclining further on the bed, body sighing as she relaxed against the plush top. Glasses sliding downward, Vinyl breathed deeply as she closed her eyes, tired body collapsing against the pillows. Symphony continued to flitter around the room, hands grabbing at different things as she went. She stooped to pack another suitcase, teal eyes eventually finding their way to the reclining woman. Moving to slide past the pile of luggage, she sat on the edge of the bed beside the jockey, smooth hands lifting to absently ruffle the blue peaks of the deceptively soft hair.

"Vinyl, would you come up to New York to see us open in two days?"

Slipping open one eye, the jockey eventually grinned before relaxing further.

"I suppose I could find time in my busy, busy schedule to take a long ass trip to NY to see you perform. It's been a while since the Orchestra has been together, it might be fun. Maybe I'll drag along Lyra and Bonbon. I know Brass is taking the train up, I guess I can hook up with her if Lyra laughs in my face."

Symphony nodded, chuckle escaping as her smile grew.

"I'd like to see you after the show. Noteworthy had us work pretty hard on another new piece, so we're all pretty excited to perform. I mean, some of us couldn't care less, but for the passionate bunch, it's pretty incredible."

Vinyl snickered and jokingly shoved the violinist.

"I know you can't mean Stella Artois and her bitchy 'tude."

Both women burst into a fit of giggles at the mention of the red-haired cellist, their earlier encounters from weeks past all too familiar. Symphony sighed as she ran a hand through the lavender hair, teal eyes narrowing as she scanned the mountain of clothes beside them.

"I need to pack, we have to be out of this city in two hours. And we have to meet at the hall before we can proceed to transport. Oh, how I loathe packing."

Vinyl grinned before hefting to her feet, hands moving to grab at an empty suitcase.

"I got this, Strings. No worries."

A strangled gasp escaped Symphony as she watched the jockey carelessly throw things in the empty bag. Scrambling toward her, she snatched at the bag and leveled the DJ with a smoky glare, lip curling as she released a long whine before the DJ burst into raucous laughter.

"Okay, I'll pack!!"

Vinyl reclaimed her spot on the bed as she watched the frantic violinist twirl around the room. Eventually, though, she had finished packing and called for the blue-haired girl to assist in moving the luggage toward the front door, preparing for pick up. Vinyl diligently followed, arms full with two bags as she stacked the small pile neatly beside the door. A high-pitched ring suddenly echoed around the apartment, drawing the attention of both women as Symphony quickly approached her purse.

Pulling the phone from the large bag, Symphony casually answered the call.

"Hey, roomie."

Vinyl moved to stand just behind the violinist, red eyes dancing with curiosity.

"Is that Octavia?"

Waving her hand, she flashed a quick smile as she nodded, eyes bouncing slowly as she listened to the cellist.

"Yes, Octavia, I know. I'm all packed. I just want to get some breakfast or something. Would you like to come with Vinyl and I to Dominic's before we prep for the road?"

"I would, but I... I already ate. I'll see you at the Hall in a bit, yes?"

"Oh... And yeah, of course. Don't forget your bowtie this time, okay? Oh, and Vinyl wanted--"

"I've got to go, Symphony. I'll see you soon."

The call ended abruptly, causing the violinist to frown slightly. She moved her eyes to Vinyl, concerned when she saw the normally jovial red eyes swirling with uncertainty. Taking a step toward the jockey, Symphony pushed her hair from her shoulders and opened her mouth to speak, only to be cut off.

"Octavia doing okay?"

Pausing, Symphony tilted her head at the question, eyebrows crinkling.

"Yes, she's fine. Why do you ask?"

"...oh, I don't know. Just curious. Been a while since we talked, I just wanted to make sure she was doing all right."

"Wait, what? Been a while? What's a while?"

"I don't know, when was the Academy thing?"

Symphony scowled at the information, her temper flaring briefly at the admittance.

"That was over a week ago--"

"Yeah. She hasn't responded to any messages or calls. I stopped, I didn't want to seem desperate or something. I've been worrying about her since you told me she was off at practice that one morning, though."

"She hasn't mentioned it since... I can talk to her for you if you like? I know I talked to her that morning to make sure things between you hadn't soured, and she promised you guys were okay..."

Vinyl smiled sadly before approaching the violinist's couch to pick up her helmet and bag before turning to face the shorter woman once again.

"Don't worry about it. If she says we're good, we're good. You guys have just had a bunch going on in your lives, no big. Let's go get some food and then we can come back here and I can get you ready for the road."

Symphony smiled briefly before glowering, teal eyes narrowing in thought. She accepted the response before grabbing her purse and followed the DJ out of the apartment.

Octavia groused as she pushed through the large doors, bothered by the ineffective bag check just outside. Transport outside the massive hall was filling up with their luggage to be bused to the airport, and the many players remained about the area, concerned with their property. After checking her baggage and her instrument, Octavia finally entered the building, eyes searching the room for the violinist. Finding her in mid-conversation with one of her section members, Octavia strolled up to the pair, wide smile etched across her face.

"Good morning, Staff. Hello, Symphony."

The young violinist in question bowed to the cellist before nodding toward Symphony as he made a respectful departure. Symphony pinned the nervous strings player with her eyes, irises dancing with repressed curiosity.

"How are you this morning, Octavia? Excited to be on the road again?"

"Yes, I'm so excited to finally be back with everyone. It's going to be such fun this time around!"

Symphony nodded and smiled at the cellist before beginning a casual stroll around the massive interior. Both women nodded and greeted their fellow players as they walked through the hall, a familiar sense of completion swarming around them. Symphony sipped thoughtfully from her water bottle before tugging the cellist off to the side, her face belying a strong wonder.

"How are you and Vinyl?"

The cellist flushed at the question, mouth twitching into a nervous half-smile.

"We're all right. I haven't had much time to talk to her recently, what with getting prepared for our trip. I haven't seen her since the Academy dinner. How is Vinyl?"

Symphony narrowed her eyes at the cellist, lips curling in mock concern.

"What aren't you telling me?"

Blowing out a laugh, the raven-haired strings player playfully tapped the other woman before pivoting to watch a small group of performers just off to their left. Mulberry eyes wandered around the many familiar faces before landing on an all too familiar scowl as Stella crested the group separating them. Making a beeline for the musicians, Stella waltzed up to the pair, an almost feral smile etched upon her face.

"Good morning, ladies. Are we excited for our tour?"

Symphony curled her lip at the redhead before taking a long draw off her bottle. Octavia smiled nervously, free hands shifting to clasp before her. The fiery cellist focused solely on her Principal Cellist, sharp sapphire eyes dancing with ice. Symphony finished her drink and took a half-step forward, hooded eyes falling slightly closed as she studied the woman.

"I'm excited for the New York nightlife. Maybe I can get lucky."

Stella snorted and smiled maliciously at the violinist.

"Oh, I forgot. You're single and alone. What a spinster you've become, Strings."

Almost purring, Symphony closed the space between them, mischievous teal eyes twinkling.

"I am a little lonely... Maybe you could help me, since Concerto's been avoiding you like the Black Plague. It's been so long since I've felt a woman's--"

Stella slapped away the hand that lifted to tuck a strand of hair behind her ear, eyes shifting over to pin the uncomfortable Octavia with a hard glare. Pushing away the smugly grinning Symphony, Stella took a step toward the raven-haired cellist, eyes again holding an icy edge.

"How are you doing this morning, Melody? Have any goodbye time with Scratch?"

"Actually, I've been a little busy this week-- Vinyl didn't exactly fit into my schedule."

Grinning ruefully, Stella nodded her consent to the woman.

"Good. You don't need that stench following you. It's almost time, ladies. See you on the plane."

With a last look to the infuriated Symphony, Stella turned and sauntered away. Octavia made no move to look at the violinist, though she could practically feel the ire coming off her in pulsing waves. Pivoting to stand before the silent strings player, Symphony stared at the cellist.

"Whatever the hell is going on, it has to stop."

Octavia opened her mouth to neither deny nor accept the accusation, but was quickly overshadowed by Noteworthy's voice as it boomed across the auditorium. Following the voice, Octavia headed toward the man before falling into place within the massive group of musicians. Noteworthy stood before them, honey-brown eyes sparkling in the bright lights of the venue. His normally combed hair was messy with sleep, though he never looked more rested. Turning his face to scan the large group, he grinned brightly.

"Good morning, everyone. The last of the luggage is currently on its way to the airport. Our buses have just pulled up outside the building, so please, proceed outside and into our luxury transporters. As always, stick together and enjoy the ride. We should be in the air within the hour."

He turned and headed toward the exit, the impressive group of musicians filing out as well. Octavia walked in step with Symphony, though she offered no words to the irritated player. They boarded the second bus without issue and settled comfortably beside one another in the front section of the bus. Stella winked at them both as she passed, the youngest of the cello players following guiltily along behind her. Octavia flashed a reassuring smile to the young cellist, instantly drawing out a small grin from her charge. Symphony simply ignored the people around her, instead focusing her sights out the large window just beside her.

The ride to the airport was virtually uneventful and as the buses pulled up outside their doors, the enormous group of musicians began filtering out. Moving together as a large unit, they all cleared security and started the small journey toward their gate. As the musicians settled, Noteworthy did his rounds, jovial smile contagious as he walked. Stopping before both Symphony and Octavia, he smirked at the women, eyes glowing.

"Good morning, ladies. Are you excited?"

Both women bobbed their heads in agreement before Octavia opened her mouth to respond.

"Yes, of course. I will admit, however, that I'm mildly nervous. It's been so long since the group has performed together, and with my short absence from my section--"

Noteworthy dismissed her concerns with a friendly wave of his hands.

"My dear Miss Melody, rest assured that you have absolutely no cause for concern. I've watched you at practices; if anything, your playing style has only gotten better, more passionate. Whatever you did in your off time has certainly worked wonders for you performance."

Octavia flushed at the compliment, her skin prickling where she knew Symphony stared hard at her. Nodding, she smiled thankfully at the Conductor. Passing another grin between the women, he easily excused himself to continue his rounds. Once alone, Symphony pinned her companion with a stern look.

"Look at that, Note noticed your new style. I can't imagine who helped you find your passion again."

"Stop. I told you, Vinyl and I are okay. I've just been busy preparing for this trip. If she doesn't understand that, it is not my place to worry. But since she ceased communication, I assumed she understood."

They stared at one another for a moment before Symphony relented, eyelashes fluttering closed.

"Okay. I'll believe that, Octavia."

The boarding call sounded over the PA, causing the unit of musicians to all shift into action. Octavia sighed deeply as she shuffled toward the gate, eyebrows drawn in discomfort. Symphony, to her credit, ignored the obvious unhappiness before she walked past the cellist and headed down the hallway; Octavia sighed deeply before following.

Vinyl bounced joyously down the sidewalk, the beat bursting from her headphones moving her to bob absently as she walked. The late morning sun shone brightly downward, the light catching the chain attached to the DJ's belt loop as she swung it carelessly, in time with the music pulsing in her ears. Absently, she shifted the weight of the infamous purple glasses as a passing glare caught her up high, the movement more reflexive than necessary. Vinyl smiled as she approached her intended destination, her free hand moving up to slip down her headphones before opening the door to the shop.

Once inside, the girl with the blue streaks nodded her head to her favorite man, booted feet moving her toward his counter in anticipation.

"Howya doin', Joe."

The baker nodded, hands placing a large blue cup on the counter, already having expected her arrival.

"Mornin', Scratch. Got the usual for ya."

Smiling up at the burly man, Vinyl lifted the hefty mug as she inhaled deeply, satisfied.

"Mmm, double chocolate with a shot of marshmallow. You're the best, Donut."

She slid the money to the man before her focus shifted to the motionless mint-haired girl in the corner, head down on the table, mug seemingly untouched. Her smile only widened as she approached, a naughtiness spiraling upwards from her stomach. Sliding into the seat across from the woman, Vinyl gently placed the mug down and leaned back, crossing her arms behind her head. The blue-striped girl's booted feet lifted up to rap loudly on the table support, a sinister smile stretching across her face.

"I swear to Celestia, if you do not stop that incessant tapping, I'm going to throw you through the friggin' window."

Vinyl smiled evilly at the mint-and-white-stripe haired girl just across from her, but dutifully ceased her movement. The two-tone girl took a sip from the large mug that sat before her, the large rim muffling the amused chuckle that threatened to escape. Placing the mug back down, the DJ brought down her other arm and leaned across the table at her oldest friend, her left hand going up to roughly tap the woman's upper arm.

"B have you up to the wee hours again last night?"

Irritated, bloodshot golden eyes suddenly lifted to stare hard at the DJ.

"Yes, with a cold. I told you I couldn't make the trip to New York today. Really, I don't know why you drug me out here."

Vinyl snorted as she drank her cocoa, the hot liquid almost burning her as the laugh caught her by surprise.

"Oh, please, Lyra. What does Bonbon crave when she's sick? Sweets. Chocolaty, Donut Joe donuts. I figured I could at least see you today before I take the long trek to New York. Is that so hard?"

Lyra half smiled at the mention of her girlfriend and her quirky habits, instead choosing to focus her sleep-hangover grumpiness on the DJ. After a long moment, Lyra sighed and leaned forward, her hands moving up to tangle in her hair in an attempt to massage the throbbing exhaustion away.

"Okay, V. You're right. But shouldn't I be heading back soon? B's already a pain, I don't need to make her wait, too."

"I just wanted to see my best girl for some coffee, is that such a crime?"

Suspicious, Lyra narrowed her eyes at the jockey.

"Right, Vinyl. And Joe's a ballet dancer. What's up? Seriously."

Vinyl smiled before lifting her cup in cheers before finishing it in one swig. Once finished, she slammed the mug down and sighed in delight. Her tongue swept over the chocolate mustache, the silver ball of her tongue ring catching the liquid with a sensual swirl. Though her eyes were hidden, Lyra still grimaced, knowing well the look she was receiving.

"C'mon, V!"

Vinyl held up her finger for a moment, waiting. The bell on the door suddenly chimed, signaling another customer's arrival. Pleased, Vinyl whipped her head around, sunglassed focus zeroing in on the brown-haired new arrival. The woman in question regarded the blue-streaked woman with a warm smile, nodding to her before approaching the counter. Once finished with her order, she made a beeline for the other women, elated smile erupting from full lips.

"Morning, girls."

Lyra smiled at the newcomer before pinning Vinyl with a knowing look.

"Hey, Brass. You want to tell me what's buggin' Scratch here?"

The lyrist stood and wrapped her arms briefly around the musician before finally releasing her.

"I couldn't tell you, Heart, I'm not her keeper."

The still seated Vinyl brought a chair out for their friend, allowing her to plop down in her excitement. The woman shifted her violet-hued eyes to Vinyl, hand reaching up to squeeze the DJ's.

"What's up, Scratch? You're fidgety."

Lyra shook her head, the sleep-related migraine receding slightly as she continued to stare expectantly at the DJ. The red-eyed jockey grinned before picking up her empty mug, eyes casually focused on the small amount of cocoa still swirling along the inner rim.

"Nothing's up, would you guys stop being so paranoid?"

Lyra scoffed, body shifting closer to Beauty to better stare at Vinyl.

"She's lying, Brass. Something's up."

A deep sigh came from the sousaphonist, causing Vinyl to turn her head downward toward the table. A frown crept up on the lyrist's face at the silent revelation however, a nagging worry building in the back of her chest. Reaching out, the lyrist plucked the heavy mug from the jockey's slack grip before threading their fingers together. Vinyl clenched her jaw and removed her glasses with her free hand, carmine eyes flicking up to lock on patient gold.

"Spit it out, Vinyl. What's wrong?"

Flushed, Vinyl shrugged, earning her a sudden, cross-table hug from the lyrist. Beauty, from her position beside them, offered a soothing smile to the quiet jockey. Releasing the blue-haired woman from her hug, Lyra leaned back before again snatching up the hands of her old friend, eyes glowing with worry.

"Come on, Pon. Tell me what's wrong so I can fix it."

Brass smiled and nodded before leaning closely to the deflecting DJ. Vinyl switched her focus between the two women, lips pursing as she thought. With a shrug, she trained her eyes on Lyra, though she still remained silent. Sensing the pending words, Lyra again squeezed the fingers still in her grasp. Brass, too, leaned forward, hand going up to casually rub the jockey's forearm in a comforting manner. Vinyl chuckled and drew away from the contact, fingers moving upward to slip her glasses back over her eyes.

Annoyed, Lyra snatched the glasses off the rarely stoic face, mint eyebrows pressing together on her forehead.

"Is this about Octavia?"

The jockey's right eye twitched at the response, automatically answering the question. Beauty sighed before leaning toward the DJ.

"What happened? Are you guys okay?"

Vinyl rubbed her palms along the tops of her jeans, an instant tell of her emotional state. Lyra leaned forward further, golden eyes swimming with confusion.

"Talk to me, V, tell me what's going on."

Releasing a painful sigh, Vinyl lifted her eyes to connect with Lyra's understanding gaze, the jockey's red orbs silently communicating her inner fear.

"I don't know... Octavia hasn't talked to me in a while... I asked Symph if I did something to upset her, and doesn't seem to think so, but she also said Octavia's been acting strangely. It's probably nothing, but I can't shake the feeling. It's been nagging me for days."

Lyra clicked her tongue before squeezing the jockey's hands.

"Was the thing last week the last time you talked to her?"

"Yeah, of course. Did she seem off to any of you? Brass? You've spent more time with her than the both of us, was she different that night?"

Beauty thought for a moment, the player's small hands lifting to thread carefully through her brown hair. After a second, she shrugged and smiled gently at the jockey.

"No. She was fine. Better than fine, I've never seen her so happy before. You guys seemed to have gotten along so well. Even Parish noticed that Octavia had a certain glow about her that night. So whatever happened must have happened after she was already home."

"Symphony told me that Octavia had gotten some news from her mom, but she didn't give any details. I'm wondering if that has something to do with it."

Lyra, who had been silently listening, scoffed at the words.

"We all know that hag: Virtuosa 'I'll Fuck Your Whole Day Up' Cash, the lady with a personal vendetta against anything with a pulse."

The three nodded their heads in agreement, the jockey the first to break the silence.

"I just can't help thinking that Octavia's avoiding me. It's probably my paranoia, but I haven't been able to shake it."

Lyra sighed before leaving her seat to stand beside the DJ. Looking down at her lifelong friend, she ran a soothing hand through the wild blue hair.

"I'm sure you guys will be fine. Talk to her tonight, after the show. Don't you guys have to go soon?"

Beauty nodded and moved her seat back to stand.

"Yeah, we do, actually. Parish called me this morning and told me that the new venue was beautiful and that he was beyond excited to be in New York again."

"Symph told me the same thing when she called me yesterday, after she spent the day in the city. I'm glad everyone's happy."

The three women stood and moved to leave the shop, Vinyl tossing a kind wave to the man behind the counter. As they stood outside the shop, Lyra approached the DJ and wrapped her in a firm hug, arms tightly encircling the thin waist.

"I love you, dumbass. Don't fret over Octavia just yet, I'm sure it's nothing."

Laughing out loud, she gratefully returned the hug before eventually breaking apart.

"I know it's probably nothing, but I just... I don't know. I worry."

Lyra wrinkled her nose as she smiled before punching the DJ in the arm.

"You're just smitten with your sexy cellist girlfriend and don't know how to deal with being apart from her."

"Speak for yourself, whippin' girl."

Exchanging playful swats, Lyra finally sighed before wrapping Vinyl and Beauty in a fierce hug. The mint-haired lyrist slid the violet lenses back on the jockey's forehead and grinned before stepping away from the women. She waved down a passing cab and approached as it came to a stop beside the curb. Before sliding in the backseat, she pinned both players with a knowing look.

"Be careful tonight. And say 'Hi' to your people for me. Catch you later, girls."

Vinyl watched the lyrist go before waving down another cab. Turning to Brass, she smiled and opened the door for her.

"After you."

Vinyl smoothed the lapels of her jacket as she stood in front of the mirror, eyes scanning her appearance for any blemishes. The door behind her opened, admitting a beautifully dressed Brass into their shared hotel suite. Smiling at the jockey, the sousaphonist sat on the edge of one bed and slipped into her heels. Standing, she approached the DJ and nodded at her appearance, fingers absently shifting to straighten the jockey's white bowtie. Sharing a silly moment, the two grinning musicians headed toward the door and down the hall before crossing the lobby and approached their waiting cab. Once inside, Beauty focused on the DJ's still profile, violet eyes warming at the sight of her.

"Don't worry about Octavia, Scratch. I'm sure she'll be happy to see you."

Vinyl merely nodded before refocusing on the colorful buildings as they passed through the theatre district. Pulling up outside the intended Hall, both women smiled widely before climbing out of the cab. Vinyl offered her elbow to the sousaphonist as she took it with a theatrical air, a tender smile crossing her lips as they approached the monumental building. Pushing past a small army of people, Brass tugged Vinyl toward their seats, just one row in from the front. Chuckling peacefully, Beauty settled in beside her night's date and smiled, absently elbowing the jockey as they settled in together.

After a time, the lights went down as the stage was illuminated, showing the many faces of the Orchestra as they sat patiently waiting. Beauty absently squeezed the DJ's hand as they focused on their friends. Concerto walked onto the stage, earning him a stirring round of applause, Noteworthy filing in just behind him. Bowing to the audience, the conductor turned to regard the small army of musicians, hands rising in dramatic flair. Counting in, he began the show.

Beauty and Vinyl sat in quiet adoration for the large ensemble, the music drawing them in as it was masterfully performed before them. Beauty focused mostly in the direction of Parish, the harpist towards the back behind Symphony's section of violins. Vinyl, however, kept her focus on the cellist as she sat at the very front of the stage, heading her large group of cello players. Occasionally the red-hued gaze would focus on the fiery redhead over and behind Octavia, her smug smile a souring aspect of the night.

The music drove over the audience in waves, the titillating effect almost awe-inspiring with its perfectly executed beauty. Vinyl's focus shifted back from Noteworthy as Octavia began her solo, the red eyes sparkling as she watched the woman perform. Closing her eyes as the cello piece continued, Vinyl sighed peacefully, mind shifting back to the very first time the woman performed for her alone.

A gentle nudging from Beauty broke the concentrated spell, however, as Vinyl slid her focus back to the grinning brass player. The performance continued without a hitch, and as the final piece wound down, Vinyl passed her eyes over toward Symphony and smiled, elated at her friends as they finished the piece.

As the last hums of music echoed around the amphitheatre, a loud burst of applause assaulted the players as they sat, perfectly placed in their formation on the stage. Noteworthy turned and bowed at the thunderous applause, hands arcing as he presented his Orchestra. All of the more than one hundred members stood in unison as the audience continued to applaud. Vinyl and Beauty stood beside the others in the crowd and cheered, Vinyl whistling loudly as the musicians bowed for a final time.

The people in the theatre began to slowly file out as the curtains drew and the lights returned. Vinyl and Beauty smiled and trickled past the people as they left, feet taking them toward the gathering group of friends and family that pooled just beside the stage. For long minutes, they sat together, talking quietly before the performers eventually filed out from behind the stage. Parish quickly appeared and drew Beauty into his arms, his enigmatic smile beaming brightly in the lights of the empty theatre. Symphony skirted around the people milling about before launching herself into Vinyl's arms, an excited giggle bursting free from the violinist.

"Oh, Vinyl, hi! How did we do?"

Chuckling, Vinyl placed the excited violinist back on her feet before clasping the woman's hands.

"It was amazing, truly. Your form was pretty excellent, Miss Principal."

Eyes glimmering, she quickly stole another hug from the two-tone DJ before turning her attention back to Beauty and Parish. The violinist's eyes focused on Stella as she attempted to talk to the equally astute Frederick, the white-haired pianist stern face even more irritated. Vinyl snorted, amused at the man's discomfort. The bright, carmine eyes of the DJ finally landed on the cellist she sought, hand squeezing Symphony's before breaking off to approach Octavia.

Squeezing between two bassoonists, Vinyl finally slid in beside the cellist, hand moving up to gently shove the woman's turned shoulder. Startling at the contact, Octavia whirled around, flashing an off-balanced smile to the DJ.

"Vinyl... hi. I didn't know you'd be here?"

Nodding, the jockey grinned at the cellist.

"Of course. Symphony practically threatened me. Amazing performance, Octavia. I'm really proud of you."

Octavia smirked briefly before turning a serious eye to the DJ.

"Thank you, Vinyl. It's very good to see you."

"Likewise. Are you coming with--"

"I'm sorry, Vinyl, but I'm not. I want to get back to the hotel and relax. We leave tomorrow afternoon for Baltimore, and it's quite a trip. Thank you for coming, good night."

Octavia bobbed her head before turning toward the backstage area and disappeared. Vinyl stood awkwardly for a moment, at a loss on how to react to the cellist's disparaging brush off. Her thoughts, however, were interrupted by a grating voice to her immediate left.

"Trouble in paradise, Scratch?"

Growling, Vinyl snapped her head to the side, red eyes flashing.

"Fuck off, Artois."

Turning back toward Symphony, the jockey pushed passed a group of players before grabbing the violinist's hand and led her up the long center aisle, Parish and Beauty in tow. Once outside, Symphony turned a serious eye to the rattled jockey.

"What's the matter, Vinyl?"

"Nothing. Artois. And Octavia totally brushed me off. I'm really trying to be mature about this, but I don't remember doing anything to piss her off. I don't handle rejection--"

Symphony waved her hands before placing them on either of Vinyl's forearms in an attempt to quell the building despair the jockey tried so desperately to ignore. Beauty and Parish walked a few steps away to give the two women privacy. Once she settled the jockey's inept stuttering, Symphony shifted her hands to cup the spinner's obviously distraught face.

"Calm down, hun. Octavia probably is just tired like the rest of us. I'll talk to her tonight and see what is up. Octavia's really getting under your skin, huh?"

It was more of a statement than a question, and the glaring agony in the red eyes was already offering an answer. Frowning, the violinist pulled the DJ into a firm hug, mouth hovering just beside her ear.

"Hey, hey. Calm down, Vinyl. It's not like you to get so easily rattled. Stop worrying about nothing, okay? It's not good for you."

Vinyl sighed heavily before relaxing in the familiar embrace.

"You know how I can be, Strings. I just really don't get why she's so weird with me all of a sudden. It kinda hurts."

Pulling back from the embrace, Symphony studied the open face of her favorite jockey. Smile assured, she squeezed the arms still around her waist and wrinkled her nose at the musician.

"Everything will be fine. But for now, let's go annihilate New York."

It was hours later that Symphony staggered into her hotel room, a fit of giggles spiraling around her as she fumbled through the dark. The light suddenly clicked on, further off-balancing the inebriated violinist, causing her to stumble against the bed before sliding dramatically to the floor. Octavia peeked over the edge of her own bed, sleep-tousled black hair falling around her like a dark halo. Symphony opened her eyes and laughed up at the less than amused cellist, her flushed face darkening as she laughed.

Octavia sighed and slid out of her bed to approach the happily giggling Symphony before kneeling down on the floor beside her. Grabbing one arm, the cellist attempted to heft the woman to her feet, but got her only as far as the edge of the still made bed. Steadying the drunken Symphony, Octavia paused a moment to look hard at her friend.

"How much did you have to drink?"

Giggling, she casually swung her arms around the cellist's neck and pulled her into a bone-crushing hug. Humming happily, Symphony purred in her ear as she spoke.

"I lost count after five... or... six?... shots. Oh oh oh, I had the best drink ever. S'called the Blue Lagoon."

Bobbing her head, Octavia grunted in acknowledgement before casting her eyes toward the alarm clock on the bedside table. 3:28. Groaning, she pinned the violinist with an irritated glare.

"How did you get up here on your own?"

"Vi...nyl brought me."

Grimacing at the admittance, Octavia stood in front of the seated lavender-haired player, mulberry eyes squeezing shut in annoyance. After a moment, Octavia bent to help remove the player's suit coat and shoes before stripping off the vest and pants. Leaving the strings player in just her collared shirt and underwear, Octavia left to retrieve the trashcan from the bathroom and placed it next to the bed.

"Symphony, you need to get some sleep."

Mumbling, Symphony stood on unsteady legs before stripping off the shirt and stumbled around the bed toward her suitcase. Digging through it, she pulled out an overly large bed shirt before slipping over her head. Standing again, she headed back towards the beds and settled into Octavia's previous sleeping place, earning a disgruntled groan from the raven-haired cellist. Symphony cracked open a bloodshot eye and smiled, hand roughly patting the bed beside her. Too tired to argue, Octavia shuffled around to the far side of the bed and climbed in, attempting to settle once more.

Symphony began to hum, a common sign of thought to the drunken woman. Sighing heavily, Octavia rolled on her side and propped herself up on an elbow, amethyst eyes focusing on the player.

"What's on your mind, Symphony?"

"Why aren't you talking to Vinyl?"

Octavia whined out a groan, eyes slipping closed as she absently rubbed at her forehead.

"Symphony, we've been over this. I've been preoccupied lately."

"I saw you tonight. You blew her off. Why? What's wrong?"

Octavia hated Symphony when she was drinking. She always led them into dangerous territory, and the lavender-haired woman was impressively insightful when she was obliterated. Snorting through her nose, Octavia looked down at the patiently waiting Symphony.

"I'm just tired--"

"Yer making excuses."

Moving her hand to rub at her eyes, she chanced a look at the strings player. She laid comfortably, hair fanned out below her. Her cheeks were pink and glowing, but the teal eyes were surprisingly clear; Octavia knew that denying the fact she had virtually blown off the DJ was clearly pointless.

"It's just... complicated."

"S'not complicated. The news from your ma... was about V, wasn't it?"

"What makes you say that?"

"Hunch."

Symphony closed her eyes and murmured aloud, however unintelligible. Octavia sighed and laid down beside her friend, mind spinning with various thoughts. Confusion surfaced most prominently, already adding to the growing unease that had taken root in her stomach almost two weeks ago. The violinist's scratchy voice suddenly shattered her train of thought, all her focus zeroing in on the words currently passing over her.

"Vinyl's upset that you're mad at her. She's a big softy, my Vinyl. And whatever your ma said 'bout her... is prolly a lie."

"You don't understand, Symphony..."

"I think you're being a bit of a bi-tch. Talk to her 'bout whatever's botherin' ya. Amazing what could happen."

Turning a surprised look to the mostly asleep violinist, Octavia remained quiet, determined to let the girl finally fall into slumber. And not long after, her fellow strings player was asleep, leaving her to her broken and scattered thoughts in peace.

She had read the police report. Her vision of Vinyl was now warped, and if she were honest with herself, she felt wholly uncomfortable around the jockey and her destructive past. Rolling away from the now snoring Symphony, Octavia focused on the wall, her jumbled thoughts rumbling through her head as she attempted to sort through them. A definitive thought came through at the end though, the words bouncing a resounding presence inside her mind. Releasing a low whine, Octavia pulled a pillow over her head and held back a sob that attempted to escape.

Vinyl Scratch had lied to her about that night in the Harwan.

Author's Notes:

I really dislike slow moving chapters, and I wholeheartedly wish my chapters could just be like... 10,000 words. But I don't have time for that. You guys know the drill, forgive my mistakes and any spacing issues. Hopefully more will be fitted into the next chapter. Have patience! ENJOY. Happy Saturday!