“I don't know what to tell you sister besides 'you should have seen this coming.' Honestly did you think she wouldn't just lock herself in her room when we weren't having a meal?”

“I don't know Luna I thought she might find a need to socialize seeing as she is used to constant interaction with others. I certainly didn't think that she would only meet the minimum requirements set down. The guards stationed in that wing reported that the only time she left her chambers was for her mandatory meals with us. There isn't a single thing in that room to do! No books or anything! What does she do with all of that extra time?”

“Well she has been dreaming quite often, she may just spend all of her extra time sleeping.”

“You should know more about sleep than I do, especially that so much rest isn't good for someone.”

“We could always force her to stay with one of us for the day. Though I don't think boring her to death would help matters all that much. Perhaps we could have her come with us on a day out in the city. You and I always enjoy ourselves when go out.”

“Hmm, that does sound nice... what do you propose that we do?”

“We could meet up with some friends that I've made. They definitely know how to have fun. One of them works in a club in the financial district. We could meet there and then see where the night takes us.”

“Whose idea was it to put a club in the financial district?”

“It does much better than you would think. After a taxing day of crunching numbers the workers like to 'cut loose.' What better place for that than a nightclub.”

“Interesting, hopefully Chrysalis will be able to enjoy herself and possibly make a friend. How does 9 o'clock sound?”

“That sounds suitable. I will warn them that we will be showing up after breakfast. Speaking of which, it seems it is time for you to raise the sun sister.”

“Quite true, see you at breakfast Lulu.”

A moment later Celestia opened her eyes. The first rays of the sun were just behind the horizon, begging for the beginning of another day. Starting her daily ritual she crawled out of bed and let her mind wander. She thought about the sheer magnitude of things that Luna did on a daily basis, from revising current laws and systems to building completely new ones. Every change she made had a positive impact on the country as a whole. Then she held night court in the dream realm for anyone that wanted to talk with her while defending against nightmares as well. After all of that she still found time to socialize and make friends. It made Celestia smile, the fact that her sister had come so far after returning. She had truly changed for the better. It made her envious at times, seeing as the bulk of her job was listening to stuffy nobles complain. Though lending a hoof in social programs always did make the boredom worth it.

After raising the sun Celestia set off to fetch Chrysalis. She knocked on the door and called out. “Chrysalis it's time for breakfast.” Waiting for a few minutes there was no response. “Chrysalis are you alright? May I come in?” Still no response. This was beginning to become worrying. Up until now she had came right to the door after being called. Right when Celestia was about to go in Chrysalis opened the door with a sleepy expression on her face.

“Not all of us are all sunshine and rainbows when we wake up you know. It takes a little time to get going.” As the two started off towards the dinning room Celestia chuckled a bit. “My apologies, it just comes with waking to the sunrise every single day for over one thousand years. You get used to it. Also alicorns don't technically need sleep, Luna and I just like it.”

“How fortunate of you, I could stay awake as well but sleeping takes less energy. Considering my current diet it's for the best.”

“Is that why you've been resting so much lately?” Celestia asked in a careful tone. Chrysalis paused for a brief moment before answering, “yes.” They remained in silence for the rest of the walk to the dining hall. Luna was already seated in her usual spot.

“Good morning to the both of you. Celestia did you tell Chrysalis about our plan for later on?”

Suddenly the sisters had the changelings attention. “What plan is she talking about?”

Celestia had a smirk on her face as she answered. “You are going to spend the entire day with me in court! Won't that be fun? Listening to all of the nobles and their complaints, I mean 'requests' all day long. Each one seemingly more bitter than the last. How does that sound Chrysalis?”

She had a very blank expression on her face, almost like a statue. “Sounds like a punishment to me.”

“Quite right, cruel and unusual at that. I really have no idea how you put up with that every single day Tia.”

“It is quite easy actually, I just tune them all out and say 'yes' to every sixth request. Hasn't failed me yet.” From the two looks she got Celestia could tell that her joke had fallen flat... again. “Would it kill either of you to laugh? Just because it's morning doesn't mean you have to be in a sour mood.”

“Sorry sister but if I laugh I feel it would encourage you more than not laughing.”

“And I just didn't think it was funny.”

Heaving a sigh Celestia gave up on humor for the morning and ordered her usual eggs and toast. By the time it arrived Luna was already finished and offered to explain the plan while Celestia ate.

“So contrary to what my sister said you will not be spending the day with her. We will all be going out to a nightclub tonight. I have a friend that performs there. It is a nice place and we believe it would be good for you to get out and socialize.”

Chrysalis raised a brow at the lack of details. “So you think two princesses and a former queen will not attract all sorts of unwanted attention?”

“Celestia and I usually go out in disguise so we're not bothered. That shouldn't be an issue for you. The only ones that will know our true identities will be my friends.”

Chrysalis could only sigh in resignation. “I guess I don't really have a choice do I?” She got two head shakes in response. “Then I'll go, but you can't force me to enjoy myself.”

That response brought a question to the forefront of Celestias mind. “Have you ever been to a nightclub before?”

Chrysalis nodded her head. “Yes only a few times on my journey here. That first time in particular I nearly got sick. I was not prepared for the sheer amount of lust that was floating around in there. I know neither of you can taste emotion but it takes a certain kind of changeling to actually enjoy it. The only way I can think to describe it is slimy. The subsequent visits went better since I was prepared.”

Luna only smirked at the description. “I know what you're talking about. Most clubs do seem to have that sort of environment but this one isn't as bad. Most ponies who go there are just looking to unwind and have fun after a boring day.”

Celestia had just finished her meal and seemed to be in an even better mood. “Don't worry I'm sure we'll have a great time.”

“I am not worried. I was just thinking of what to do for the rest of the day. Sleeping seems to be a poor choice.”

“Alright then we will take our leave for now. Tia I'll be back after the arrangements have been made.” In a blue flash the moon princess was gone, leaving Celestia and Chrysalis alone.

“I need to go start day court, if you do end up with absolutely nothing else to do feel free to stop by. I would greatly appreciate the company.” Celestia walked out of the dinning room, leave Chrysalis with only her thoughts.

She had never really had any free time up until this point. She had always been occupied with maintaining the hive and monitoring the hive mind. Now she was left with nothing to manage or oversee. No stray thoughts from drones to keep her company, nothing. It then occurred to Chrysalis that she had nothing in the way of a hobby. She didn't even know what she liked to do. Going to the library and reading was an option but didn't, feel right. Wandering the castle seemed pointless and she was fine on emotional energy. There was no need to interact with guards or servants to feed off of their negative emotions. Luna was setting up things for tonight so that left one option, Celestia.

The more Chrysalis thought of the mare the more frustrated she would get. How could she maintain the level of positivity, tolerance, and kindness that she did on a day to day basis? What goes through her head that makes her think she can help everyone? What makes her tick?

Being able to figure a creature out in a short time was something changelings excelled at. Chrysalis was especially good at this. The fact that she could not figure out what motivated Celestia was nearly maddening. Suddenly she had an idea. Getting up and taking the usual route to her room as not to arouse suspicion Chrysalis started to develop a plan. A simple plan, but a plan none the less. After passing through the doors into her room Chrysalis changed into the form of a small bluejay.

Flying out of her window she rounded the castle and landed on the sun princesses balcony. Transforming back she did a quick scan for traps and found absolutely nothing... that mare is far too trusting for her own good. She tried the door on the balcony and low and behold, it was unlocked. It was almost like she was asking to be kidnapped or assassinated.

Pushing the thoughts from her mind she began to look around. She found old letters from her student, a shelf full of fiction novels (particularly trashy romance), a sizeable cabinet full of wine, and a closet full of dresses that look like they have never once been touched. Chrysalis was slightly disappointed. She came here expecting to find some big dirty secret but Celestias room was practically normal. As Chrysalis was digging through the closet she found something interesting at the very back. The whole wall was lined with unmarked boxes that from a distance look like the rest of the closet.

Upon closer inspection she found out how to open said boxes and was only slightly surprised at the contents. She softly laughed to herself. “Oh I am going to have a field day with this.”

Back in the court room Celestia was up on her throne listening to a stallion droll on about how he was entitled financial compensation for 'burning his mouth on the too hot coffee' from a local shop. He was absolutely certain that it wasn't his fault and deserved something in return. The sergeant outside was supposed to pre screen these ponies before they came in so this sort of thing wouldn't happen. It seemed he needed a more detailed definition on important.

“Sir, may I ask you what you education level is?” The stallion stopped his rambling and stood just a little taller. “Your majesty is looking at a graduate of Canterlot Law School.”

“Fantastic and how is your eyesight?” The stallion paused for a moment, “I have 20/20 eyesight your grace.”

“Then did you not see the steam coming off of the coffee? Or is the knowledge that normal coffee is hot sail above your educational level?” The stallion just stood there with a shocked expression on his face as he tried and failed to respond. “So apparently the knowledge that you learned is better fit for a petty thief. After all that is what you were just attempting to do right? Take money from someone else? To summarize you went through all that studying at law school to use the information to swindle hard working ponies out of their bits. How correct does that sound?” While she was talking her voice gradually increased in volume and intensity. This was enough to get the stallion shaking on the spot.

“You... your grace... that is not at all what I-”

“Save your lies for someone who will believe them. Now leave and do not return unless you have a legitimate issue.” He gave a bow and briskly trotted out of the room. Then walked in the last petitioner before lunch. She had an unusual color palette for a pony, while most were bright she was quite dark. She was tall and grey, with a pitch black mane down to her knees, and piercing emerald green eyes. Something about them felt familiar to Celestia but the mare had already bowed and began to speak.

“Good afternoon, your majesty. I just wanted to stop by and inform you that I know.” The simple statement had thrown Celestia for a loop.

“I am sorry, you know what exactly?”

“Your secret of course, the one you hide where you think nobody will look. You know what I'm talking about.”

Celestia searched her mind for what the mare was talking about and found nothing. She didn't hide anything, she was a very open pony. When the realization hit her Celestia started to panic, even though it didn't show on her face the mare seemed to know when she realized it.

“See you do know what I am talking about. Now since I have this information who do you think I should share it with? The nobles? Your student? Luna?”

“No! Do not tell Luna! I have no idea how you found it but I am willing to do anything to keep this between us.”

“Anything?”

“Anything.”

“Then...” She put a hoof up to her chin to feign deep thought. “I want you to... pick up a stallion on our night out tonight.”

By this Celestia was totally and utterly confused. “What?” Then the mare began laughing hysterically and burst into flames. Revealing Chrysalis doubled over in mirth. All of the guards visibly tensed but did not make a move. After a moment all of the pieces clicked into place and Celestia couldn't help but laugh herself.

“That was pretty good Chrysalis. You got me.”

She wiped a stray tear from her eye as she calmed down. “You should have seen your face. When I said Luna you lost all composure. That was great.”

Still wearing a smile Celestia got down from her throne and started to walk with Chrysalis. “I was so blinded by the panic I didn't even realize it was you until you transformed. Although I must ask how did you find out?”

Chrysalis just smirked. “You need better security princess, one of these days that trusting nature of yours will be your downfall.”

“I can take care of myself and besides.” Suddenly the princesses smirk suddenly turned sly. “Maybe it was an invitation.” Chrysalis stopped dead in her tracks to look at Celestia. She was flushed and tried to get a response out, but was cut off by laughter from the princess. She was quick to calm down after she knew it was a joke and kept walking. It took a moment for Celestia to catch up and when she did she was still giggling. “Consider that part one of payback.”

“If that is how you plan to play this, then I guess Luna is going to get to learn where her sister keeps her secret twinkie stash.”

Like that Celestia was back to panicking. “Now now, we don't need to be rash. How about a deal?”

“The one from earlier still stands. Pick up a stallion tonight and I won't tell Luna.”

“Why do you want me to pick up a stallion?”

“Because I know you can't and will enjoy seeing you suffer twofold.”

“That sounds like a challenge to me. I will be glad to prove you wrong.”

After agreeing to the deal it only took a few more moments to get to the dinning room. Luna was early as usual and had a certain air of giddiness about her. “Tia, Chrysalis, I have made all of the arrangements for tonight. When we arrive my friend Vinyl Scratch will be playing a new set as an opener and when she is done we will meet her and Octavia in the back room. Then she is going to close out as well. Tonight we get the VIP treatment.” She was very proud of how well this had come together, she was also excited to see Vinyl and Octavia again, it had been to long for her liking.

Celestia was happy for her sister and Chrysalis got a nice snack of excitement. “Good job Lulu I can't wait to see those two, each one has played for me at some point or another. It will be nice to meet them in a much less formal setting.”

Soon enough the princesses had eaten and were fixed on getting back to their individual duties. Right as Luna made a move to leave Chrysalis caught her off guard with a sudden question. “Luna when was the last time your sister had a suitor?”

“Uhm... let me think. A few years before my banishment I believe. Unless she has had one in the time I was gone.”

This made Chrysalis smile in absolute glee, revealing some impressive fangs. “Then this is going to be so much better than I thought.”

Luna looked to Celestia for clarification and got a sigh in return. “Chrysalis and I made a bet. She didn't think I could pick up a stallion tonight.” The statement made Luna cover he mouth to stifle a giggle.

“What is it ponies say these days? Oh that's right, 'how is your pickup game?'”

Celestia and Chrysalis just stared at Luna. It made her slightly uneasy. “Did I say that wrong?”

Celestia was the one to answer. “No it just sounds weird, doubly so coming from you.”

“Agreed, how about we leave the slang to those under a hundred years of age.”

That had brought up an interesting question that had yet to be asked. “Chrysalis just how old are you?”

She gave Luna a small smirk. “Don't you know that it's impolite to ask a mare her age?”

“You don't have to answer if you don't want to.”

“Well it won't hurt I suppose, I am ageless like the two of you so long as I am kept supplied with magic. As for actual age around seven hundred.”

“Still fairly young when compared to the two of us. Tia and are I double that age at least, we lost track of the exact day of our births. Becomes a little trivial after so long.”

“Quite true, for your sake Celestia I hope you find a stallion that likes older mares.”

Celestia flushed as Luna and Chrysalis carried on laughing at her expense. “If the two of you are done I am going back to day court. I would rather deal with uppity nobles right now.”

After she had left Luna calmed down and got up to leave as well. “I have some more paperwork to attend, farewell for now Chrysalis.” Once again it was just Chrysalis left with nothing to do... and she still had a few hours to kill before their night out.

The rest of the day was uneventful for the trio. Celestia and Luna went about their daily tasks and Chrysalis occupied herself with some light reading. Dinner passed by and they had all went to prepare for the night ahead. The two sisters met at the gate and waited for Chrysalis. Celestia had taken on the persona of Sunshine. She was significantly shorter with a medium length bubblegum pink mane and pearly white coat. Luna had changed into Selene, she had a short white mane and kept her coat the same shade of blue. On her approach Chrysalis noticed how well done the transformations were and couldn't help but be a little impressed. While it most likely took a lot more magic than her transformation they were just as flawless.

Celestia saw the mare Chrysalis had formed into earlier and instantly knew it was her. “So what will we be calling you tonight? I'm Sunshine and this is Selene.”

“Call me Glyss. Now are we just going to stand here or will we be going?” It was then that she noticed a carriage waiting, presumably for them.

Selene noticed Glyss looking and elaborated. “Since it is quite the walk we decided on a carriage. It should only take around ten minutes to get there.”

With that the three headed towards the carriage, got in, and were off. The trip took no longer than was promised and the trio got out in front of a rather busy looking club. The sudden cocktail of emotion was slightly disorienting at first but Glyss was able to sort it all out. There was definitely some lust, happiness, and a slew of smaller emotions. She was pulled out of her analysis by Sunshine and was ushered around the side of the building. The walls inside must have been heavily soundproofed since the outside was quiet aside from the ponies waiting in line. By a side door a large griffin with a 'security' shirt was standing and talking to a grey earth pony mare.

When she saw Selene she waved a hoof. When the two got close they shared a hug and Glyss could taste the affection. “So good to see you Selene it has been far to long.” She then turned to the other two accompanying her. “Nice to meet you as well. I'm Octavia Melody.”

“Hello, I'm Sunshine and this is Glyss.”

“Well Vinyls set should have already started so we should go in.” She turned to the Griffin standing at the door. “These are our special guests Bertram.”

“Noted, hope you enjoy yourselves tonight. Feel free to use this door instead of the main one to avoid the crowds.”

After thanking him the four entered the establishment and immediately got a taste of the new mix Vinyl had cooked up. The walls vibrated from the intense volume and low frequency of the sound and Glyss found the tune rather pleasant. While the other clubs had only played repetitive electronic music this was entirely different. It started with a lone cello and as it picked up the tempo percussion came in with a heavy backdrop to set the tone. A brief fleeting pause came suddenly and then the music was back with much more force than before. It sounded as if the cello player was furiously sawing at the strings but somehow producing a coherent melody out of it.

The crowd was loving it and the mare behind the turntables did too. Her electric blue mane bounced in time with the beat and all too soon the set was over and the crowd was left begging for more. Picking up a mic the mare addressed her fans.

“How did you like that! You all just got a taste of my new mix that I'll finish later on tonight ,for now imma hand over the tables to Neon Lights! Let me hear some noise!” A stallion had gone onto stage and immediately began with a base drop. As the crowd got back into the swing of things Vinyl came backstage and gestured to a room with a star on the door. The mares followed and went into the room, after the door was shut the volume came down to a much more manageable level. The interior came complete with a mini bar and some very comfy looking couches. Which the mares took full advantage of.

“So what do you dudes think of my new sound? Pretty awesome right?”

Selene looked ready to burst at the seems with praise. “That was amazing Vinyl! I love classical and metal fusions. Octavia, did you make those rifts she used?”

The grey mare smiled and flushed a bit. “Yes Vinyl convinced me to branch out a little bit and I can say it was quite fun making those with her. Though it can't be too often, I went through two bows helping her with all the new tracks.”

Sunshine had her tranquil motherly smile on. “Its nice to see you two collaborating so well together. I am happy to see your improvements as musicians. When did you get the idea to do a collaboration?”

Vinyl threw an arm around Octavia who flushed slightly but made no move to get away. Glyss was getting something she didn't have too often from this duo. True love and lots of it. “Well Tavi here was always playing that classical stuff. Which is all well and good but you need to try new stuff sometimes right? So I showed her some sheet music from a great metal band, 'Stallions of the Apocalypse.' I left and got back later that day and she had already played the entirety of one album and was listening to another.”

“Well it had so much energy and I felt quite motivated after playing each piece. Shame they're so hard on my bow. I can't image how many the band actually go through coming up with all of their new pieces.”

“Well I find your collaboration to be extremely well done and original at that. The crowd also seemed to love it. They were all bursting with joy during the song.” Everyone in the room turned to Glyss who had yet to speak up until that point. None had expected genuine praise to come from her, especially the sisters.

Vinyl put her glasses behind her horn and everyone got a look at her ruby red eyes. She smiled and put out a hoof to Glyss. “Thanks, the names Vinyl Scratch.” Glyss extended a hoof and bumped it to Vinyls. “Glyss for tonight, you know who I really am don't you?”

“Yeah and Tavi too. Didn't the princesses here tell ya we knew?”

“They did, I just wasn't expecting a positive reception.”

“Well your getting one anyway, ain't that right Tavi?” Octavia nodded her head. “Yes, if the princesses trust you enough to let you stay at the castle then we have no reason to not trust you.”

Hearing that threw Chrysalis for a loop. These were the first two other than the princesses that didn't hold any animosity towards her. It made her feel a strange mix of happiness, unease, and skepticism.

Suddenly Selene slammed her hooves on the table making everyone in the room jump. “This is all well and good but we came here for a reason and that is to have a fun time. Vinyl! I challenge you to a game of drink. The usual bet. Vinyl sighed and nodded her head. She went to the bar, got two shot glasses, a bottle of grain alcohol, and a bottle of black rum.

Sunshine was slightly confused by all of this and wanted some answers. “Why do you have two different bottles?”

As Selene and Vinyl were too occupied staring one another down Octavia opted to answer. “Since Selene has such a higher tolerance she drinks double the proof of what Vinyl does. It evens the odds out a bit. Even though Selene always wins that doesn't stop Vinyl from trying. As for the bet the loser has to wear the jokers hat.”

Glyss was watching the battle begin as each mare downed their first shot. “What, pray tell, is the joker hat?”

Octavia pointed over to a corner where the hat hung. It was purple and green with bells attached to points all over it. “Suffice it to say it's a running joke here that the great Dj-Pon3 can't handle her liqueur, even though Selene is the only one shes ever lost to.”

Sunshine looked back over to her sister and Vinyl. In the short amount of time she wasn't looking they had managed to down a total of fourteen shots. Selene looked quite tipsy while Vinyl looked totally plastered. She sighed and waited for the game to be done.

After Selene downed her eighth shot Vinyl tried and failed to use her magic to pick up her glass. Letting out a groan she let her head fall to the table. The victor rose her hooves into the air and downed the remaining drink on the table for good measure.

“I am the victor and remaining champion of drink! All will see me and bow for I am... Urrrp. 'Scuse me.”

Sunshine shook her head at her sister. “That isn't fair, you know very well that she doesn't have a shot at winning unless shes drinking wine from that glass.”

“Don't look at me in that tone of voice. This is the best way to start off a night. Besides all she gets for losing is a silly hat.”

Grogily Vinyl lifted her head from the table and started to sway a bit. “Don't forget style points for doing my last set without magic.”

Octavia gently lead her wasted marefriend to the couch and gave her a bottle of water. “Just stay here for a bit love and you should be well enough off to do your set.” Slowly she nodded her head and looked over to the mini fridge by the bar. “Hey how about you all go and enjoy the club, I'll stay here till I'm able to walk a semi strait line.”

Octavia had a slight air of worry about her. “Vinyl are you sure?”

“Yeah, I'll be good to go in like an hour or two. Go its fine.”

“Alright, just try not to fall over on the way to the fridge alright?”

“No promises but I will try.”

The party of four left the DJ to her own devices for the time being. Stepping back out of the room the music wasn't as loud as before but you would still need to yell to be heard. They made way to the bar and ordered various drinks. Selene had a black sunday, Sunshine, Octavia, and Glyss all got wine. When they found an empty table in a corner where it was slightly quieter Selene put her drink down and immediately went for the dance floor. The other three could only watch as she flailed around in what one could only guess was supposed to be dancing. After sharing a laugh Glyss eyed Sunshine with a sly smirk.

“You remember the bet don't you? So get to it. The night won't last as long as you think.”

“Want this to be over that quickly do you? Fine I'll be right back.” Getting up she trotted towards a purple stallion sitting at the bar. She noticed but didn't stop the eavesdropping spell Glyss had cast on her.

When Octavia tapped on her shoulder and gave a questioning look Glyss passed the spell onto her as well. “I made a bet with her that she wouldn't be able to pick up a stallion by the end of the night; the spell is so we can hear her.”

As they looked up Sunshine had made it to her intended target. “Hello there.”

The stallion turned with a friendly smile on his face. “How's it goin'.”

“You mind if I sit here?” She pointed to a stool beside the stallion.

“I don't mind at all, have a seat.” After she sat down Glyss was starting to think this was a bad idea. Seemed like the princess could act normal if she really needed to.

“So I have a question.” Sunshine suddenly asked. “Well I might just have an answer.”

“Did it hurt... when you fell from heaven?” The stallion looked totally confused and just started to chuckle in an awkward manner. “Oh, uhm, heh, look at that, my friend over there looks like he needs a hoof. Nice meetin' ya. Gotta go.”

He quickly made his way over to the other side of the room and started talking to another stallion. He tried to subtly gesture in Sunshines direction, a quick nod was exchanged and they started to laugh together. Seeing this discouraged the princess a small bit. When she looked back to her table Glyss was losing it and Octavia was trying very hard not to laugh. That was enough to fill her with determination to prove Chrysalis wrong.

One time after another throughout the night Sunshine had been rejected in every way, shape, and form. Most just made an excuse and left while others had strait up told her to take her terrible pickup lines somewhere else. Each time she failed Glyss couldn't help but burst into laughter. It got old for Octavia fairly fast and she started to feel sorry for the princess. Selene had came back to the table occasionally to get a drink and have a laugh at her sisters attempts to romance a stallion.

“You know most of the lines that she's using were her own creation? She came up with most of those old style pickup lines back in the day.” She let out a soft chuckle. “You should have seen how well they worked back then. Since no pony had heard them before she swept mare and stallion alike off of their hooves. Though I'm not surprised that they've grown out of date since then.”

After Selene went back out to the dance floor Sunshine was rejected once again. This had been going on for hours at this point and the gag had run its course for Glyss as well. When Sunshine made no attempt to get up from the stool at the bar she decided to act.

“I'll be back in a few minutes.” Octavia nodded in understanding and watched the disguised changeling walk off. When she entered backstage and a tall slender stallion came out Octavia couldn't help but smirk as she watched and listened to the scene before her unfold.

“Excuse me, do you mind if I sit here?” Sunshine looked up to see a white stallion with a teal ponytail looking down at her with a gentle smile. “No feel free.”

He took a seat while Sunshine tossed ideas around in her head. Eventually she settled on going for it one last time before calling it quits. “Uhm, do you happen to have a map?”

“No I don't, sorry. Why do you ask?”

“I was looking for the road to your heart.” It was difficult for the disguised changeling not to cringe. She was really coming on strong for the last attempt wasn't she? Somehow he managed to choke out a small laugh. At which Sunshine instantly sprung up, her entire demeanor had switched from discouraged to giddy with that small sound.

“That was a pretty good one; did you come up with it yourself?”

Her smile grew even wider with each passing second. “Yes! I have been waiting for someone to actually laugh at one of them! Every pony that I tried it on took it so seriously.”

“Heh, well I was actually on my way out but wanted to see if you were alright. I need to be going now but don't get down about this... just keep being yourself alright? See you.”

Sunshine was left with that advice as the stallion exited out of the back. She wore a genuine smile of gratitude as she made her way back to Octavia. Where a certain changeling was suspiciously missing.

“So how did that one go?” Octavia asked with smile mirroring Sunshines. “Fairly well, he was quite nice. Too bad he had to 'leave' so soon.”

A moment later Glyss was back and sat back down in her spot. “Did I miss anything?”

“Yes you missed the chance to see me woo a wonderful stallion. Isn't that right Octavia?” Glyss turned and got a nod. “He actually laughed at one of her jokes, imagine that.”

“Wow, he must have been lacking a sense of humor to find one of those awful pickup lines funny.”

“Regardless I was still able to romance a stallion so I win the bet. Now that I'm not otherwise occupied I am actually feeling tired. Octavia would you be a dear and tell my sister that I went back to the castle?”

“Certainly. It was nice seeing you again. I hope we can do this again soon.”

“Thank you and tell Vinyl to give up on trying to beat my sister at drink, she never will.”

“Heh, I'll certainly try but 'give up' isn't in Vinyls vocabulary.”

“Well I'll be seeing you.” Sunshine got up to leave and soon after Glyss stood as well. “I'll be going with her. It was, uhm, nice to meet you Octavia.”

“Likewise and that was really sweet you know, making her feel better like that.”

Glyss flushed slightly and scowled at the earth pony. “I only did it so I wouldn't have to hear the big foal complain about it later.”

She turned to catch up with Sunshine. By the time she had found her they were already past the club and on a direct route back to the castle gates. After getting some distance from the club and taking into account the empty streets Sunshine dropped her spell and went back to being Celestia, minus the regalia. Taking the hint Glyss dropped her disguise as well and the two walked in silence for a time before Celestia broke it.

“Thank you.” She said in earnest.

“For what?”

“For making me feel better.”

“I didn't do a single thing.”

“I know you were that stallion.”

“That is false. I was checking on Vinyl while I was gone.”

“Liar. I might not be able to taste emotion but I can put two and two together. You helped me when you didn't have to. I just wanted to tell you that I appreciate it.”

Chrysalis sighed in resignation as they continued on their peaceful walk. “I didn't want to have to listen to you complain about this for the rest of the month. I didn't do it to be nice. Is that clear?”

Celestia smiled, not a smirk, not a plain old smile, one that was genuine and radiated gratitude. All of it was directed at the changeling beside her. “Crystal clear.”

Author's Note

So I just doubled the length of this fic with one chapter... did not plan on that when I started this one. Not that it's a bad thing, just unexpected. Anyway side not to those of you who drink if you like strong stuff try a black sunday they're a personal favorite of mine. That's all I got for this one, hope you all enjoyed this chapter.