But success is something to celebrate, isn't it? Mounting popularity is the sign that they're surviving this world, that their efforts have helped them persevere. Greg's happy for Garnet. Worried, sure, a little. Wary, a bit. But still happy.

Fans scream as he gets on stage; some thrilled beyond words, some venomously angry that he'd dare get up alongside their queen. Greg smiles all the same as he works up his guitar riff, and beams over to Garnet. She keeps up a cool persona for the crowd, sure, but this'll be fun to do together. It's a rare professional chance to relish in their hard work and all they've sacrificed to get this far; standing together, as friends, two of their label's most accomplished newcomers.

No subconscious urges to show up Pride, that's for sure.

Once the song gets going, the fans will be happy to see them playing. He's sure of it. Music's what brings them together, right?