Letters

by ShadowblazeCR

First published 26th of April, 2022

A collection of letters between Octavia and Vinyl through their time apart. Taking place while they pursue their music careers on opposite ends of Equestria.

A collection of letters between Octavia and Vinyl through their time apart. Taking place while they pursue their music careers on opposite ends of Equestria.

Octavia - It's Quiet

Dear Vinyl,

I must admit, it has been eerily quiet since we parted a few days ago. With the Canterlot Orchestra on tour, they thought best to 'splurge' and give every musician their own room in the hotel. As nice as the establishment is, I cannot say without lying that it pleases me outright. The only thing keeping me company at night is the drip of the showerhead and the slight noise of the air conditioner running.

It is lonely without you my love. And as much as I abhor your tendency to yell "Good morning Equestria!" every time we wake up, I seem to be missing it so these mornings. The bed is cold, and my ears are replaced with the shuffling of covers instead of your sweet whisperings. My afternoons are filled with talk of the newest piece of music, or the oldest piece I have ever heard of. I already miss our musings on the most trivial of things, somehow they swept away the monotony of the days.

These next few months will be agonozing, and I count the days until we are together again. I hope with all my soul that it these coming weeks will fly by faster than a Wonderbolt creating a sonic boom. Though, some say distance make the heart grow stronger, I might disagree and say it makes the heart grow greedier.

Until I am able to love with you.

Yours and yours alone,

Octavia

Vinyl - To Alleviate The Silence

Octy,

I just got your letter this morning. Work has been swamping me for the last few hours and, finally, I was able to sit down and give it my full attention. Thankfully, I was in my studio without anypony there, because I'll be honest that there might have been some unladylike actions in there. I think the squeals alone would have allotted a headshake from you, but that's what I love the most about you so it's okay. There will be plenty of unladylike actions when you come back to me, so I guess that I can keep them to a minimum to make you happy.

The new album is coming along 'swimmingly' as you like to say. Those samples we got with you before you left are perfect, not that I would expect any less from a world-class cellist like yourself. Nonetheless a pony I chose to spend the rest of my life with. Because who in their right mind wouldn't choose someone as awesome as themselves right? Be honest, you're lucky that you found me so soon or you would have been searching for decades to find someone as great as you. Especially as musically talented.

Not that you need anymore of an ego boost love.

Anyways, Neon is a great partner in this album. He's a prodigy, even I'll admit. And as much as we like to butt heads, he's picking up what I'm putting down faster than I would have at where he is in his career. Though, keep that between us, I think he's lookin' for a reason to get me to give my signature for Eneigh auctioning. It really is the age old adage of natural talent vs. hard work. Good thing we're using it to our advantage.

I've kept you occupied on myself enough, sorry. How is Lyra by the way? Is she keeping your ear full about Bonnie? Don't forget to get me a trinket or somethin' from Las Pegasus, I need something cool.

Here for you forever and always.

Vinyl

Octavia - New Location, New Troubles

Dear Vinyl,

With Las Pegasus under our metaphorical belt, our tour has brought us to Manehatten. I am certainly fascinated by the difference in culture simply by going from city to city. In a broader thought, still simply being in Equestria and seeing so many different groups of ponies has proven good for curing boredom. Lyra and I have taken to creating stories for passerby based off our first impressions. It has been entertaining to say the least.

Speaking of Lyra, yes, she cannot keep herself from gushing about her wife at any chance she gets. I have begun to keep on the lookout in a game of one of eye spy for any pairings of pink and blue. As endearing as it is to hear her talk about Bon Bon so lively, as her friend, I must say that the break apart could do her some good. A hypocrite is your wife, Vee, remind me of that when we see each other again.

I did not forget your trinket, do not fret my dear. However, the object itself will remain unsaid, I need some surprises for my return. Maybe some bribery involving kisses can be sufficient for an early reveal, but proper persuasion is a minimum for such a thing. I might or might expect the aforementioned bribery in your reply, not that I would resort to such lows. No, a Canterlot elite only deals in absolutes and never breaks the code of honor, duty, and respect.

Please detail more about Neon, he was a respectful gentlecolt when you introduced him to me and I am curious about anypony that can keep of with a firecracker like yourself. Please keep to teaching him 'do as I say, not as I do'. I might not be able to handle two Vinyl Scratches running around. Of course, that is until we have decided to expand our family.

Loving you more than you realize.

Octavia

Vinyl - Missing You

Tavi,

Okay, so maybe I went through our photo album yesterday because I was missing you. But that doesn't mean I am the needy one, it just means I love you more. Seriously, I'm fine, but a picture of you attached to the letter might do me some good. I'll take anything at this point, even one of those cliché red lipstick kisses on the corner of it.

To get more on topic, the topic of Neon Lights specifically. Just a couple days ago the guy created a metal song with a chainsaw as his guitar, which I completely judged at first. Rightfully so. But it might have been the most headbanging piece I've ever heard. If I wasn't literally the best in the business I would be worried about losing my audience in a like less than a year Octy. Good thing I'll get the credit for him, Lily Heart wanted to get that Quibble Pants guy instead, but I'm telling ya she's warming up to him.

Make sure to stop by that pizza shop I told you about. It might be a little refined for your Canterlot tastes, but I think you'll come around to it. And it should go unsaid, I'll say it anyways, that I also need a trinket from there too. Your love and affection is usually enough, but I think my quota can only be filled by a trinket. Sorry. Still love you.

Missing you more every millisecond.

Vinyl

Author's Notes:

Been thinking of this idea for an OctaScratch story since I read a RWBY fanfiction by the name of Letters to Winter. The idea of a story centered around letters and the simplicity of it that allowed for direct and personal characterization through them made me want to knock it out. I really plan to come to this in between writing my usual things to keep me occupied and fresh, especially when things like Deadly Love is giving me some serious writer's block.

As always, any feedback is appreciated. And I hope everyone enjoyed their read so far, expect more in the future.

Octavia - Latest Performance

Scratch,

I will admit that this particular performance was less than stellar. It did not feel particularly full of life, even though everything was pitch perfect and nopony missed a string. The crowd was lacking to say the least, even the usual required-to-be-there-because-I-am-rich type ponies were scarce. I have to admit that the joy and great interest in the new sounds we create was next to none during this last performance.

And I would chalk it up to jitters to being in the city, or a bout of anxiety from being away so long but to be honest, I think those things were back when we were first dating. This worried me Vinyl, there was a void in my soul today and I cannot begin to think what would happen if I lost this 'mojo' you tell me about all the time. If you could provide some advice, not as my partner, nor my friend, but as a fellow musician I would appreciate it beyond belief.

Enough talk about these trivial matters, I want to hear more about how you're doing in the next letter. Hearing about you should alleviate any stress that is built up over the past few days. Please do not fret over Neon, he adores you and would never cause you any intentional strife. Mold the prodigy into what you would want to happen to you, that is all I ask.

As promised, a picture of myself was taken during the performance by one of the in house photographers. They were kind enough to provide it shortly after.

Love you forever,

Octavia

Author's Notes:

I'll be putting these bits out whenever I think that I need a break or am just feeling a change of pace from what I am usually writing. And with my graduation from college in about a week, finals week beginning, and a million other things I need the distraction. Thanks for reading.

Vinyl - Consolation

My Octavia,

I'm so sorry to hear what happened. Don't worry a bit, some chocolate and a nice nap will get rid of whatever funk you were in real quick. Trust me, it's a tried and true method passed on through generations of my family. Don't forget though, it's been a decent chunk of time since you've played with the Canterlot Orchestra. And you've been jamming out with me for the last year or so, considering those things you probably were off you're groove for that. Happens all the time. We can talk more over the phone if you need to, I won't complain about hearing your voice more.

As requested, I am doing fine. I'd like to have you here, but I think I can suffice with wearing your sweatshirts and that cardboard cutout I have of you in the bed with me. Otherwise, I'm just doing my best to keep the days from becoming monotonous. It's harder than I thought, and our tour is still another month out, so preparation should be ramping up and keep me busy. To be honest, I'm just proud of what you're doing and brag all the time about it, Tavi. It's never going to get old having excuses to talk about you to anyone.

Please worry about something else though, you have a talent for the cello and its never going to be a waste with you behind it. Focus on the next Hallmare movie marathon to get your mind off of it, I'm sure you'll be back to normal after.

Payment for the picture. xxxxxxxx

Vinyl

Author's Notes:

On a somewhat roll so far, so I'll just keep posting these until I run out of momentum.

Octavia - Lyra's Shenanigans

V,

In response to hearing my qualms about the performance this afternoon, Lyra saw upon herself to cheer me up through her personal brand. I thought we would find ourselves exploring and experiencing the night life of this city, or even cozied up in the hotel watching movies. No, strangely enough and to purely my own opinion, I saw myself and Lyra in a nearby axe throwing escapade. Vinyl, I have no question in my mind that you would have flourished in the environment that we were in.

I will begrudgingly admit that it was certainly thrilling, though I do not see myself doing it again anytime soon. Lyra had a knack for it and I found myself watching more than participating in the event, keeping to seeing her hit the bullseye every other throw. Considering how I felt just under several hours ago, I feel like a one-eighty has occurred and will have to find a way to thank Lyra.

As much as I appreciate the componsation given for my picture in the last letter. Hearing all about you and Neon has me thinking that a picture is needed to properly finish out the componsation for mine. Please attach a respectable photograph of you two in the next one, I know how you two can get. Make it presentable please, I would like to show others if possible or conversation allows.

Until I see you once again.

Octavia

Author's Notes:

Probably it for today, I'll post some more tomorrow. Later in the day though, two finals are on the schedule and a math project using the Celestia forbidden MatLab code. So, we'll see if I can put together a little something.

Vinyl - Bored

Octavia,

It's official, I am probably the most bored I've been since you left. The crew decided we should have a free day today, but the rain and thunderstorms around the area have kept me inside. Yeah, I know Octy, why don't I entertain myself with those brain-numbing video games I like so much. Well, I would love to, except that that there has been a power outage for the whole day and they don't expect to have everything up until tomorrow. And tomorrow is tomorrow and not right now. And yes I know that I can use my phone.

If I hadn't used up all the data already doing that.

Okay, I'm sorry if you can't call me in the next couple days till the month is over. I might have forgotten to stick to the games that I can play offline on the phone. I guess I need to figure out that unlimited plan we keep talking about. I'll have it good to go before you get back, I promise.

Tomorrow we get our new equipment in to be able to start making some sick new beats and sounds. I'll be sure to keep you updated on that. As a parting gift, here's the picture you wanted of me and Neon.

Never going to stop loving you,

Vinyl

Octavia - New Cello

Vinyl,

I have splendid news. One of the viewers of the yesterday's performance was so impressed with me that they decided to donate an electric cello for my future use. I cannot comprehend yet how much this might affect my playing, but I am ecstatic to try it out and learn the nuances compared to a classic cello. It is such a new concept in the classical world, what with the old coots that spew tradition nonsense and hinder real change and progress like this cello.

Though, to be honest, I was one of those ponies before I met you dear. You know that. So, I might give a little credit your way. I would not be able to properly appreciate these quality of life improvements. There is so much I still do not know about the world of classical and music in general, thankfully you have helped in that respect.

We have another performance in around an hour, the last one before we go a little north to some city I wasn't aware of. Apparently it is one of the most diverse mix of species in Equestria because of its closeness to resident kingdoms to the north of us. I am excited to experience the blend of cultures and what those offer with Lyra in tow tomorrow.

I await your contact readily.

Love everlasting,

Octavia

Author's Notes:

Got some solid A's on my Modern Algebra research project and other math finals, so feeling pretty confident to knock out some more of these chapters. Once the turn of the month of May happens, it will likely revert to every Saturday for a chapter so I can begin spacing out releases of other chapters and one-shots.

Vinyl - Trying Out Stuff

Octy,

We finally got some new equipment to try out. Even with all of it, we even got some more to replace a few of our old pieces of equipment too. Neon and I stole this dope new thing called a hang drum, one of my buddies sent it to the studio but I claimed it for the two of us. After some lunch today we're gonna try it out and see what we can do with it, from some of the videos I've seen online it should be pretty cool. The power has been on for a good bit at this point, so I don't see us getting interrupted by it any time soon again.

I hope all is going well with your performances, I have no worry that you're doing awesome, but you know it never hurts to mention. Try to ask the local griffons around the next place where some good music is, I've heard they've got some solid stuff. If you could record some, that'd be great, I'm always on the lookout for something fresh. Plus, I think you'll enjoy seeing their culture and how it affects their style of music. That's always been your kind of thing, which makes you even more lovable.

Till I write you again, with even more love.

Vinyl

Octavia - Street Performance

Scratch,

Today, and for the last few days, myself and a few of my companions have attempted some street performances. Outside the Orchestra's building, and with my new electric cello, we drew quite the crowd. It spurred from the dissidence produced from my suggestion to incorporate it to the conductor of our group. They were displeased at my progressive thought process, to say the least.

It became a simple competition to put it lightly. And, my dear, I have had too much practice with such things having you around.

Lyra and I took to the sidewalk for the last few days, placing a small tip holder in the form of the cello case to measure interest. It had already been decided well before that the tips would run for more equipment for the cello, something to continue what I expect will be weekly excursions. The conductor said if we could meet his quota of bits by the end of the week we could have a practice run at one of our rehearsals with the new cello.

These sessions have done wonders on my creativity. They are wildly different from the rehearsals that the orchestra does. Lyra commented yesterday that they remind her of when she listens to yours and I practice sessions. As much as I do not tend to agree with her wild theories, this one seems to check out.

Every day this week has reminded me why I pursued this profession. All I can think is how I hope you will have the same occurrence on your upcoming tour in several weeks.

Loving you with every fiber of my being,

Octavia

Vinyl - Tour Preperation

Octy,

That sounds awesome! I'm glad you're getting after it lately, that sounds like I need to update Bon Bon on her wife's antics then. She's been bothering me enough as it is, says that Lyra isn't sending her letters like we are. Something about how the phone calls and texts don't have the same romanticism to them as hand-written things. I told her that I'm not loaning you out for writing letters, so don't go writing for Lyra anytime soon. I have you reserved, love.

The preparation for the tour is going really well. All that's left is some real rehearsals, and maybe some fine tunning. Thankfully it should be a little bit short than yours, and we'll end up back around the same time. Nothing crazy, though I think my crowd will go a bit more crazy then yours. I'm thinking of trying my first stage dive in a few weeks.

I'll be sure to bubble wrap myself so you won't be missing any pieces of Vinyl when I come back. Maybe I'll do it in one of those big inflatable hamster balls as a compromise. I'm at least throwing one of those cakes into the crowd at least, and there's nothing you can do to stop me. Neon told me about a friend of his who used to do it. And I'm totally gonna give it a go.

That is unless your letter gets here saying to not. Which might be conveniently ignored until I do it. So, if a reply doesn't come for a couple weeks you know why.

Keep loving me as much as I love you,

Vinyl