I am SO sorry that this is so late, but technically, it is still Friday, right? Or it is in some part of the world, at least. Hectic days are the worst for remembering important things. Anyway, here's the next episode. Hope you all enjoy and please, let me know what you think!

The Rehearsal

Ash had been ready to go since they first pulled over to the curb, which had only been a few minutes ago though it felt so much longer already, yet the others in his group were only just now getting antsy. He still couldn't understand why they had insisted on coming in.

Those on the stage were taking their time, warming up, chatting with others, and generally hanging out more than practicing. It was simply further proof that there was no real “pull” from a practice. Why waste time sitting around socializing when there was so much else to be done?

There was nothing that made him want to be part of it, nothing at all. Ash decided that he would have to give Grandmother an eye roll as proof. Just because people liked music didn't mean that everyone had to want to be part of it.

Then, something strange happened. A sound washed over everyone: a single instrument filling the entire place. Ash snapped his gaze down from the ceiling to face the stage, where the onyx-haired upstart was playing.

His eyes were closed as if there was nothing else around, as if there were no responsibilities or problems in the world, or at least, his world. Ash thought that he looked peaceful, which was odd, like playing a few notes could erase all his worries and concerns. How could anyone ever come to feel that way? To be able to not be plagued with duties and obligations?

When he reached the climax of the scale, he followed the notes back down as low as he could apparently go. Opening his eyes and removing the instrument from his mouth, he looked around, that peaceful look melting into one of resignation. But resignation of what, Ash didn’t know, though he found himself starting to get curious. That could be dangerous. Curiosity could lead to distractions. Their current location was evidence enough of that.

Finally, the director stood up and walked onto the mini podium with the fancy stand. He started to bang a thin white stick he held in his hand against the stand littered with papers in front of him. Everyone’s attention was immediately drawn to him.