Well, I deleted all yesterday's string parts, added new ones I'm still not 100% happy with. Decided to leave off the bass, leave it light and airy. Only added a very simple occasional low drum and some cymbals that I may still remove.
I routed all the strings through the Xone VF-1 filter which is always worth trying. I think it came off in this case. See if you agree.

http://soundcloud.com/smokyfrog/where-once-was

My main library company didn't like the strings though so I guess this piece will have to remain "one for me". I may still do more though.