“Cause of Death WAS indeed strangulation. And I’m absolutely certain whoever did this must’ve had a personal grudge against Colton.” Cadaver said, showing us the ligature marks around Colton’s neck. The marks looked pretty deep. Almost as if the suspect pulled so fucking hard, he almost could’ve decapitated him.

“It would seem so, given the marks. I wonder which mare he pissed off that much.” I said, looking at the body.

“I don’t think it was a mare, Shadow.” Cadaver said.

That came as a surprise to us. “Are you saying the pony in that carriage with Colton was a dude?” Ruby Glow asked.

“I tested the lipstick print on the condom. Take a look at this.” Cadaver said, walking us a few meters away from Colton to a picture of a close up on the condom.

“That’s a crisp, clean print.” Ruby said, looking confused.

I was too. “Which is a problem. If it was oral sex, it should be smudged all over with saliva and shit.” I said.

“That explains why there wasn’t any saliva on it. My guess? I think the suspect put the condom on Colton AFTER it was used.” He said.

“So the suspect put the used condom on him, strangled him to death, and kissed afterwards?” I asked him.

“Yeah. Talk about the kiss of death, huh?” Cadaver said, attempting humor in this situation. Me and Ruby looked at him with an unamused expression.

He rubbed the back of his head in embarrassment. “Let’s move on.”

“Yes. Let’s.” Ruby said. I saw Cadaver blush a little bit.

Once he regained his composure, he got back to business.

“After I discovered that, I decided to focus on the sex act. Look at this.” He told us, now showing us another picture. This one being shown on a projector screen.

“I looked at Colton’s seminal vesicles. If he HAD had sex before he died, then their would be semen in them. Their wasn’t any there OR on his body.” He said, as he showed us the screen.

I was baffled when I heard this. “That can’t be right. You saw the condom.” I said.

“That’s what I thought too. Until I got the DNA results. Take a look at the chromolines.” He said, guiding us to ANOTHER projecter screen.

“This is Colton’s DNA right here.” He said, putting the DNA sheet on the screen on the left.

“And this is the semen in the condom found in Colton’s carriage.” He put up another one on the right.

I was stunned at what I was seeing.

“These two aren’t the same. Which means Colton spent his last night in that carriage with another stallion.” Cadaver told us, leaving Ruby looking genuinely surprised.

“Well, I guess we know why him and Octavia’s relationship didn’t work out. He was gay.” I said out loud.

-/-Ponyville: Octavia & Vinyl Scratch Residence-/-

The house that Octavia Melody and Vinyl Scratch, otherwise known as DJ P0N-3, lived in was a bit on the outskirts of Ponyville. Not all the way, but I could tell it would take a bit of a walk to be able to get into town. I’m starting to wonder if the rumors about these two being a romantic couple are true. Living away from almost every pony that knew you two were famous?(Vinyl more so than Octavia) This seems like something a couple who would want their “privacy” from ponies. And I accept that.

Before we walked up to the front door, Ruby Glow decided to break the conversation with a simple, “Hey?”

“Yes?” I asked, acknowledging her.

“Doesn’t it kinda bother you that every pony in town is pretty much afraid of you? I don’t think they know the real you.”

I shook my head. “You have to be intimidating on this job, Ruby. You should know that. And if every pony in town is intimidated of me, then I guess I’m doing my job right.” I told her.

I saw her give me that stern look Twilight usually gives me. “That’s not true. You don’t HAVE to be intimidating to be an officer of the law.” She said, rather defensive.

“I disagree. If you want to get answers from somepony, a little intimidation factor works all the time. Whether it be through hard evidence or just somepony like me who admittedly looks scary as hell, if you have one or both of those, you know you got the fucker. That’s all that matters.” I explained to her as we were now outside their door.

“What about treating the suspect as a pony? What about being fair and just?” Ruby asked as I knocked on the door.

“The ends justify the means, Ruby. Now shh. Somepony’s coming.” I told her. I saw her snort in annoyance. I sure hope this doesn’t jeopardize our partnership here.

The door opened and there stood that very unicorn DJ I have been speaking of. Her white coat and spiky blue mane with pink glasses. I was standing in the presence of somepony pretty famous.

I flashed my badge at her. “Hello. I’m Detective Shadow Haze, and this is my partner Detective Ruby Glow.” I told her. Before I could continue, I saw her glasses drop a little to show her red eyes, which were lidded with flirtatiousness and seduction.

“Yeah, I know who you are. You’re that hot as fuck new dude that found the guy who beat the shit outta Zecora.” Vinyl said, etching closer to me. I swear I could smell energy drinks on her. I wonder how many she’s had.

“Ya know, I’ve watched you from afar and thought you were good looking, but up close, you are one handsome as fuck stud.” She was now an inch away from me. She circled my body, with her blue tail brushing under my chin. I took a peak at Ruby Glow, who was giggling with enjoyment at Vinyl’s attempts to bed me.

Can’t deny I’d like to take this mare and let off some sexual frustration. She’s a hot little piece of ass, I know that. Seems I’d have a good time with her.

However, unfortunately, I’m on a job here. I’m a professional. And the case comes first.

“Did ya come to let me give ya a ride on the freak train? If ya know what I mean?” She whispered in my ear. I heard Ruby give an EEP with surprise.

I took a step backwards. “Honestly, you are one sexy as fuck mare that I would like to fuck. I admit, I’m a little interested to see this “freak train” you talk about.” I said to her. I think I heard her moan a little bit.

That’s when I used my magic to lightly push her away. “However, Me and Ruby here are on a job. And I need to speak with Octavia Melody, you’re house mate.”

Vinyl gave an exaggerated sigh. “Killjoy.” She said, letting us into her house.

Which I found kinda odd. This literally felt like two houses in one. Because, on one side, their was Vinyl’s stereo speakers, her turntable, her records, and amps. Then on the other, there was Octavia’s stuff. Obviously, her cello with a bow, a few music stands, music note books, and some random folders as well. Wonder what for.

“Want a beer?” She asked me, going on her side, where there appeared to be a mini fridge. When she opened it, there were a few bottles of Alcoholic Apple Cider, some cans of Monster Energy Drinks, and some water bottles. She pulled a cider out, pulled the cap off with her magic, and took a swig of it.

I shook my head again. “No thanks. I’m better at my job sober.” I told her. Ruby Glow shook her head at the offer as well.

Vinyl shrugged. “Suit yourself.” She said, taking another swig. “So, why do you wanna talk to Octy? Is she in trouble or something?”

“Not necessarily.” Ruby Glow said. “Ms. Scratch, Octavia’s ex boyfriend Colton Von Gallopson was found dead this morning in Canterlot.”

When that sentence left her mouth, Vinyl looked surprised. I noticed it when she was about to take another swig, and a few drops dripped onto the floor.

“W-What? Colton’s dead? H-How?” She asked, sounding genuinely shocked. I guess she knew Colton as well. This should get interesting.

“He was murdered.” I told her.

Her look of shock stayed after I said that. She literally looked like she couldn’t believe what I just said. If that wasn’t evident enough, Vinyl then placed her beer down on a windowsill next to her big stereo speaker.

Her head was down, apparently in sadness. “I can’t believe it. He was such a cool dude.” She said, looking depressed.

Ruby came over and lifted Vinyl’s muzzle up with her hoof to get her to face her.

“Would you be willing to answer some questions for us? And where is Octavia?” She asked her.

“Octy’s gonna be back in about 5 minutes. She just had to finish a shift at the School of Friendship. Oh, this’ll be something great to come home too.” Vinyl said, looking sad.

“Well, let’s talk while we wait.” I said. She nodded and we walk toward a sofa couch near the wall. There was also a sofa chair on the right side of it. She sat down on the chair, while me and Ruby sat down on the couch. I brought out my pen and notepad.

And just before I could start my questions, I heard the front door open. We all looked and there she stood.

Octavia Melody. She looked really beautiful with her long black, regal like mane. Her gray coat with a song note cutie mark. She also wore a bow tie as well.

She looked confused. “Vinyl, who are these ponies?” She asked.

Before we could get a word out, Vinyl hopped off the couch and ran at her. This caught Octavia off guard. She grabbed Octavia by her shoulders.

“OCTY! Colton is dead!” She exclaimed.

Octavia’s eyes widened. “What? What are you talking about? What’s going on?” She asked.

Ruby and I stood up from the couch. “Miss Melody, we’re very sorry to tell you this, but your band mate Colton Von Gallopson was murdered sometime this early morning. He was found in his carriage.” I told her.

Octavia just looked utterly shocked and dismayed. There weren’t any word said from her. All there is was, was pure silence from her.

“Octy, I’m so sorry.” Vinyl said, trying to comfort her friend.

“Would you be willing to answer some questions for us, Miss Melody?” Ruby asked.

Octavia didn’t respond at first. She trotted over to her side of the room. There was a cabinet on the wall next to her music stands. She opened it, and casually got out a wine glass. Next, she got out a big wine bottle. It was titled Strawberry Spring Fields. She poured herself a full glass. She put the wine bottle back into the cabinet.

She picked up the wine glass with her hoof and drank a sip of the wine. All this while her back was turned to us.

She turned around to face us. “How did he die?” She asked with a stone cold serious tone in her voice.

“He was strangled to death. And it looked like he was with somepony beforehoof.” I told her.

She walked over to the couch and sat next to Vinyl with her wine glass intact.

“I’ll do my best to answer your questions, Detectives.” Octavia said, looking like she was trying to hold in her emotions.

Vinyl put a hoof on her friend’s shoulder. “Me too. I knew Colton as well. And I’d like to help.” She said.

I nodded their approval and got out my notepad and pen.

“Now, Miss Melody—“

“I prefer Octavia, thank you.” She interrupted.

“Okay, Octavia, we spoke with your composer Gustav. He told us a little bit about your history with Colton. Can you please tell us about your relationship with him?” I asked her.

She closed her eyes and snorted through her nostrils. This looked like it was really tough for her. But, I gotta give her credit, she’s pulling through.

“Colton worked with me for the Royal Canterlot Symphony for about 6 years. He was considered by many to be the best musician out of every pony. And it was well deserved, because he was a wonderful performer. I learned a lot from him when we worked together.”

“Gustav also told us you and him dated for a while.” Ruby interjected.

Octavia nodded. “Yes. He asked me after a rehearsal one day for a spot of tea. We enjoyed each other’s company, and after that we started to court each other. It was nice, even if it only lasted 3 months.”

“Why did it last that long if you two liked each other?” I asked her, kinda moving on the couch a little bit.

Then I saw Octavia blush a little. “Do I really have to answer that? It’s a little personal.” She asked, looking embarrassed. Either that, or the wine was start to take effect on her. Her wine glass was now half full.

“Just tell them, Octy. You’ve got nothing to be embarrassed about.” Vinyl said to her.

She snorted through her nostrils again. “I must admit, I was looking to, as Vinyl would put it, take our relationship to the next level. Ashamedly, I was quite….envious let’s say…of Vinyl’s ability to…get around with other stallions, if you understand.”

Jealous of her outgoing roommate, eh? I’ve seen that before.

“Okay.” Ruby said. “So, you wanted to sleep with him. What happened?”

Octavia blushed again. “I attempted to go to that next level with him after a big show we did in Las Pegasus. He told me…” She paused while looking embarrassed. “He told me it didn’t feel right. That we shouldn’t do this right now.”

“And shortly after that is when you broke up?” I asked her.

She nodded. “The other reason I attempted to go to that next level is because our relationship wasn’t going anywhere. We didn’t have a lot of chemistry with each other. I thought if we slept together, maybe that could save it. But, Colton didn’t want to. He was more focused on his work than anything.”

“How was your relationship afterwards?” I asked.

“At first we were a little distant, but after that we decided to put it behind us and remain good friends. He even gave me free rides to Canterlot in his carriage.” She told us, taking a drink. Her wine glass now looked about a third full. By the time this interview is over, it’ll be all gone.

I suddenly remembered the leggings in the carriage. “Random question, did you ever leave anything in his carriage?” I asked.

She thought for a moment. “I believe I left a gym bag in there. Two days ago, he dropped me off at a gym for my exercise routine. He dropped me off back home and I realized I forgot it in there. That was the last time I talked with Colton.”

“What about yesterday?” I asked.

This time Vinyl spoke up. “Me and Octy were practicing for a show at the Ponyville Hall. We combine my dubstep with her classical music. She even did say she needed to contact Colton to get her gym bag back.”

“So, the leggings are yours?” Ruby asked.

That question looked like it surprised her. “Yes. Why do you ask?”

Ruby paused before replying. “Colton was strangled with your leggings, Octavia.”

She looked both dismayed and disgusted. She drank a pretty big gulp of her wine. It looked about a fourth full now.

“Do you know if Colton had any enemies? Somepony who would want to hurt him?” I asked.

Octavia shook her head. “I apologize, but I don’t recall if anypony had problems with him. He was very well liked by every pony on the Symphony.”

“How about this Ludwig St. Clipton? Gustav told us they were really close.” Ruby asked her.

She chuckled a little. “Oh yes. Those two were best friends. From what Colton told me, they’ve known each other since they were colts. Their fathers were best friends.”

“What about Ludwig’s father? The District Attorney?” I asked her.

“Sebastian? Oh, he was close with Colton as well. Colton even told me he felt Sebastian was like a second father to him. They were very close. Maybe even more so then he was to his own son.” She told me. It kinda looked like she was getting a little tipsy now.

“You’re saying Sebastian and Ludwig weren’t as close?” I asked.

“No. But, I’m saying that it felt like most times Sebastian would praise Colton more than his own son. It was quite odd.” Octavia said. Her wine glass looked to be getting lower and lower.

“How would you describe Colton and Ludwing’s friendship during the last days of Colton’s life?” I asked her.

She thought for a moment. “We were going to be working on the Piano Trio for a big show. I was a part of it. And Colton and Ludwig were working very closely on it. They would spend many hours together reciding it.” She told us, taking another drink. Her glass looked about empty now. Save for a small sip left.

“And you weren’t there for those?” Ruby asked.

She shook her head. “No, they insisted they work together on it alone. Plus, I also am a substitute teacher at Princess Twilight Sparkle’s School of Friendship. They didn’t want that to interfere with my hours there.”

Okay. Colton was gay. He was close friends with this Ludwig St. Clipton. His relationship with Octavia, a very lovely and beautiful mare, didn’t work out. He spending a lot of time alone with this Ludwig. All while Octavia is away from them.

Yeah, I have no proof yet, but I’m already guessing that these two were banging each other.

Question is, did this Ludwig kill him? And if yes, why?

I stood up from the couch. “Thank you Miss Melody and Miss Scratch. You’ve been a big help.” I said.

“And we’re gonna find the guy who did this.” Ruby said, standing up next.

Octavia finished her drink and stood up. Vinyl did the same.“Thank you Detectives. Colton was a good stallion. Even if our relationship didn’t end all that well.”

You know what, fuck it. I’m gonna ask.

“You know, it’s funny you say you and Colton were an item, and yet I’ve been hearing rumors that you two are an item. Why’s that?” I asked, as I pointed my hoof at both Octavia and Vinyl.

All of a sudden, it was Vinyl who now looked embarrassed and was blushing. While rubbing the back of her neck with her hoof.

Octavia then slowly turned her head toward her roommate with a very unamused expression on her face.

“Yes Vinyl. Why is that?” She asked her.

Vinyl groaned. “Do I have to tell them? I’ve already apologized to you so many times, Octy.”

“I know. But these Detectives asked us a question. One of us had to answer. And who better them the mare, who’s fault this all is.” Octavia told her with a sly grin on her face. It looked like she was enjoying this.

Vinyl groaned in embarrassment.

“We were at some fancy, shmancy party in Manehatten a few years ago. It was after a big show me and Octy did. There were paparazzi there wanting to get interviews out of every pony who was apart of it.” Vinyl said, looking sheepish.

“Mhmm.” Octavia said, motioning for her to go on.

Her blush got bigger. “I got really drunk at the party. There was a dude there I wanted to fuck. And he had a mane style that kinda looked like Octy’s here. So, in my drunken state, I went over and decided to make out with him. His back was turned and I spun him around and kissed him. But….” She paused again. She was looking at Octavia, almost begging her to not make her finish this story.

But Octavia wasn’t having any of it. “But what, Vinyl?” She asked.

“It wasn’t the dude, hell I don’t even remember his name now. It was Octavia. In front of a lot of those paparazzi dudes.” She finished.

Octavia smiled and nodded her approval. “Good job, Vinyl. Thank you for answering them.” She said, now walking away from us.

I couldn’t help but snort in laughter at Vinyl. She kisses her roommate in front of a bunch of paparazzi ponies in one of the biggest media markets in Equestria? That’s so hilarious. I wonder what Vinyl had to do to make Octavia speak to her again. Probably something embarrassing.

I handed over my card to her. “We’ll be in touch.” I told her.

Before we could leave, Vinyl etched closer to me. Looks like her embarrassed look was gone, and back to her lustful and confident one.

“Maybe I can touch you in a nice place before you go?” She asked me. I saw Ruby blush.

“Some other time.” I told her, lightly pushing her off me.

As we walked out the door, Vinyl called out to me. “My doors always open ya know. And my legs.” She said, giving me that eye again before she went back inside.

Ruby and I walked for a few seconds before my phone went off. It was a text from Captain Bisette.

“Captains got something for us.” I told Ruby.

“What’s that?” She asked.

“Colton’s financial records.”

Author's Note

Yeah, this was what I meant when I said there will be something in this story that may piss you off. Yes, in my universe, Octavia and Vinyl are NOT a romantic item. Both are straight and live together as friends. Sorry if this pisses you off, but it’s my story and I feel it works.

Anyway, if you guys like this chapter, make sure to comment, like, favorite and follow for future updates. Thank you all and goodnight everybody.