It is with deep regret that I inform my complete and utter defeat by the hands of the mare I neglected to ask for identification. As proposed by yours truly, I appeared at the appointed time at the discriminated locale. However, the dark mare was nowhere to be seen. Believing to be the case of some "deciding the appropriate attire" situation seen a lot in romance novels and other types of media, I took a seat at the bottom of the stairs to the library. However, as time went on, it became clearer that she had no intention of appearing.

Much to my dismay, I came to realize her complete disregard for our rendezvous when I caught a glimpse of the mare in question taking a stroll towards the outer area of the castle. Accompanied by Cadance, I watched as the mare left the castle grounds from a distance. And as to rub salt on the wound, I was met with the most unpleasant of meetings. Not by appearance, but by such stubbornness and an utter ability to anger me that one could consider it a calling.

This annoyance goes by the name of Twilight Sparkle.

"Oh. You're here," She greeted with such an expression that I couldn't help but feel offended. "You are aware that the books are inside, right? You won't absorb the knowledge from sitting there."

"I am very aware, Mrs. Sparkle. I did not come here for books. But to meet someone I wished to converse with. However, it would seem that the pony in question had other plans," I replied with disdain. "She did warn me of the tight schedule though," I added while pulling the small case from my pant's pocket.

"SHE?" Twilight exclaimed before correcting herself. "She? Are you sure it's a she?"

"As a matter of fact, yes. My first well-held conversation. One that doesn't evolve into a squabble between two ponies that are always headbutting each other over the top score. Something that I am yet to achieve, sadly" I replied with little to no concern.

"You got conned again for one of your fast reading glasses, didn't you?" She replied with a smirk while crossing her arms.

"I will have you know that I was not conned! I merely wished to exchange information regarding her inner works and rather developed social skills. Something I lack horrendously," I replied before facepalming at how ridiculous my response sounded. And this response seemed to draw the same reaction I had during the conversation with the mare in the previous day. Meaning, my response was as bad as I thought it sounded. "Take this, and forget I ever said this," I said while shoving the case into her and leaving.

I need to blow some steam. I'll need to bring them out tonight. I concluded while taking leave homebound.

Today, a series of events led to multiple changes in schedule. My original intent to verify if the stallion from yesterday was indeed waiting for me outside of the library, and then appear with a few minutes of tardiness was ultimately foiled by the arrival of Princess Cadance. Who, for some reason, was adamant about speaking to me. The events that took place are described as follows.

Walking out my gifted room, I met a surprising visitor that did little to hide their discomfort in their current placement in time. Shifting in place with a frown on her face, the princess of love emanated shame, curiosity, hate, and regret. It could be embarrassment from our first impressions or something else entirely, however, I had plans. And such plans had to be executed with haste and precision as to evaluate my progress.

"Delightful to meet you this morning, princess," I said ironically while skimming past her. "I have a meeting of utmost urgency. So, if you don't mind, I need to leave the child to her fantasies, while the mare handles the realities," I said with a mischievous smile while walking away.

However, my progress was held back by the princess repositioning herself in front of me. Wearing such a childish dress and a stylized mane that one would assume her to be an oversized child just by looking at her. "How do you do it?" She asked with her cheeks turning red.

"Beg your pardon?" I replied with a tilt of my head.

"How do you wear yourself with confidence like that?" She asked bluntly while pointing at my dress.

The garments I had at the time were far from the most glamorous, or scandalous, things I have ever worn. A pair of fingerless gloves that stretched up to my arms while leaving my shoulders exposed. My dress lacked straps that held it in place, being held in place only by my bust (very modest when compared to their full development). The front part of it had a metallic green color to it while being emerald green on the back. As for the skirt, it was divided into two parts: an upper layer that covered the crotch area and the back of my flank and a small portion of its sides, forming two triangles, one on the front and one on the back, and it possessed the same metallic green color; and a lower layer, much larger and covering all sides of my waist and flank. This dress made it so whenever I walked, my legs would be exposed to those around me.

That dress was the only one I had at the time. Celestia was yet to send me new clothes as she promised. Probably due to work, or for lacking my measurements. In any case, that dress was a reminder of home. A little piece of home away from home.

"So, the little princess is curious as to how to be a mare?" I inquired with glee. "Oh, my, oh, my. Has the princess of love fallen in said love? A mare changes due to two things in my opinion: one, she is pursuing a dream; or two, she's met a partner she wants to please. On most occasions, it's both at the same time," I added while pulling my mane back.

"I never said that," She replied without stuttering. But with her face still red as a tomato. "I want to know how to act with confidence, regardless of how I look," She added with conviction.

"What do I gain from this little exchange?" I asked with a smirk. "I hardly see how this benefits me. Especially with how much you and your aunt seem to judge me. Not saying that it isn't granted given my past endeavors. But a bit of leniency for a mare willing to make peace would be nice."

Cadance stood before me with a frown on her face. She seemed to ponder her options before speaking her mind. "We can go together to get clothes. It will be faster than waiting for Tia to find you a tailor," She said while offering her hand.

"Clothing is barely a concern in my world, dear. No, I will starve without a source of food. Find me a place where I can feed off love passively and you'll have a deal," I replied while crossing my arms. Cadance opened her mouth to reply to me with a frown, however, I interrupted her with a gesture. "By absorbing passively, I can get the saturated energy from the air without harming the ponies around me. It barely feeds me. Meaning, it has to be a place of passion and love for something or someone. A place where I can stay for a few hours to feed."

The princess seemed taken back by my request. One would assume that a princess attuned to such a power source as Love she would be able to sense it. However, with her reaction, I assumed two possible scenarios: one, she was never attuned to love and the title came because she discovered a love spell (which sounds terrifying and useful for me); two, the ascension to alicorn does not happen all at once, meaning, powers need to be discovered and/or developed by the one in question.

Both interesting theories I'll need to verify at a later date. I concluded while rubbing my chin.

"I'll do it," She said before pulling me by the wrist. I tried to resist, however, Cadance's strength was greater than mine.

"I didn't mean now! I have an appointment and I need to study!" I shouted while she dragged me across the castle and into the gardens.

"We are in the middle of a weekend with a holiday on Monday! I won't be available for much time when this is over," She explained while slowing down her pace. This time, we walked side by side.

It seems I'll need to make the most of this situation. A chance to look into the layout of the town and scout for possible candidates to be my partner. Canterlot is THE capital after all. Only the best of the best. I mused while walking with my arm linked with Cadance's.

"Princess," I said while we exited the gardens and gained the streets. "Are you able to sense the love between two ponies?"

Cadance didn't look at me, neither did she respond to my inquiry. Lowering her gaze, she bit her lip while her ears folded back. "I recently reached ascension. For now, the best I can do is sense strained relationships and push the ponies towards mending them," She explained while we walked through the town.

"So, the princess of love, cannot sense love," I said with a smirk. That remark earned me a glare for the pink pony. "Calm down, princess. I simply find it amusing that the title works that way," I added while we entered a strange building filled with paintings and sculptures. "What is this place?"

"An art museum," Cadance replied with a pout. "Art is related to passion. And the ponies that come here love the art."

I couldn't help but look at Cadance with a hint of pity. The ideals she held in her head were childish and naive. To a pony, the ones within those walls were intellectuals. Ponies that adored the art and knew its meaning. Sadly, I'm not a pony. I can tell the difference between honest emotions and make-belief. I could count the number of ponies that indeed loved art in one hand. Letting out a sigh, I glanced at Cadance.

"What?" She asked while tilting her head.

"If the love for art was your plan, it would have been best if you took me to an atelier or an art class," I replied while placing my hands in her shoulder. "Passion is something that emerges from an artist's love for their craft. And it is displayed on their final product. An artist will ooze passion and love while creating. A musician will do the same while performing. A clown when he brings smiles on the faces of his audience. What you see around you is nothing more than vanity and shallow creatures that seek admiration from those around them, my naive princess. They seek to paint an image of themselves to be adored. In my opinion, they are worse than us. Because they do this for self-satisfaction. We do this for survival," I explained while making my way towards the exit. "And emotions like this, reek like a festering corpse."

I waited outside for a couple of seconds before Cadance caught up to me. Her expression was different and her emotions too. The curiosity boomed after my statement, sprinkled in the heavy mist there was a hint of admiration. A small spark of admiration, it was a positive development on my part. However, that wasn't my main concern at the time.

"How about a pastry shop?" Cadance inquired while we walked towards a building with a plaque of bakery. "Ponies love sweets," Cadance said while pointing to it.

Once inside, I realized that place was filled with actual love followed by huge waves of regret that drowned the love away. I turned around and left Cadance in front of the counter. And took a seat outside. She came to me with some baked sweets. I think they were donuts. She placed the donuts on the table and took a seat while looking at me eagerly.

"So? How is this place?" Cadance inquired while leaned on my arm and earned a few curious looks from the ponies around us. Strangely enough, there were hints of lust amongst the fear and curiosity.

"As much as they might love sweets, it doesn't compensate the amount of regret lingering around this place," I answered while picking one of the donuts and chomping away at it. It was sweet and had some sort of beige cream inside it. Sadly, I wasn't prepared for it, so my cheeks were covered in it and the filling splurted from the back of the donut. Meaning, my hands were covered in whatever sweet that was, plus Cadance got covered in it as well. That was when I had a rather devilish idea, which included me using my tongue to clean myself and her, the most sensual way possible. That earned me plenty of lust, but no love, unfortunately.

This led to a series of trials and error events, and a very flustered Cadance accompanying me for the rest of the day. Cadance got us into a fashion show, she ended up playing dress-up while I sat on the audience. Once more, there was a greater amount of lust than love itself. Lust is something easy to attain, and even easier to consume. Then it was a visit to a toymaker's atelier, it seems the princess is keen on taking advice from others. As long as they sound like they know what they are talking about that is.

We even paid a visit to a popular valentine's spot. This resulted in a series of small displays of Cadance's abilities as she mended at least four relationships that were damaged by a blushed Cadance that was by my side. And after that, we began to walk towards the castle again. The sun had begun to set and Cadance looked defeated. That was when I felt something. A familiar scent and allure.

Love.

The trail led to a weirdly colored building. Soothing music boomed from inside along with a calming light. As we approached the building, the style of the music changed, muffled words tried to escape the walls and failed. The building's door was wide open and ponies left and entered it without much care. Smiles on their faces as they leave and enter. Their bodies enveloped by love.

"What is this place?" I asked while pulling Cadance inside with me.

"I believe it is a club of sorts?" She replied while we made our way to an empty table. There were plenty of ponies walking around, sitting on tables or by the bar, eating, drinking, and some playing cards and other games. I let out a satisfied sigh before opening my mouth ever so slightly, to a regular customer it would look as if I were just breathing through my mouth. For a changeling, however, they would see a constant influx of energy being directed towards my mouth.

"This is the place," I muttered while taking in the love in the air. Love for conversations, love for peace, love for the ambiance, love for the games, love for liquor, and the grand majority shared a love for music. Their love for music was so grand that whenever the employees of the place adjusted the equipment on stage, their love would spike along with a huge boom in excitement. There were even hints of lust hidden amongst the emotions spiking. "This place is saturated with love. I can use this as my feeding grounds. Two or three hours should keep me satisfied for quite some time," I explained while keeping my feast on schedule.

"Huh? What is happening to the lights? Oh! Chrysalis, you're changing," Cadance whispered while leaning closer to me. "Like, your body is swelling up a bit."

Impossible, that sort of change would take longer than, WHAT?! I screamed in my head as the amount of love in the air spiked. Even higher than it was before. My absorption had increased to keep up with the new influx. In that state, I should be able to fight on equal footing with a well-trained soldier. Not a high ranking one, the guards patrolling around town would be on the right level.

"Well, my dear costumers," A rather tall earth pony greeted while climbing up the stairs to the stage. "It is a rather last-minute change. But, a welcoming change none-the-less. You know this lighting very well, so, let us welcome to the stage of Midnight Melodies: Night Hymns!"

Waves of applause muffled the entrance of a strangely dark unicorn stallion. Their coat was deep purple, their eyes were magenta and his mane was black. They wore a dark gray jacket over a half-open white shirt and a pair of dark blue pants. He had a ring around his horn, an old symbol of marriage as far as I know. The cheers and emotions directed at this stallion began to partially cloud my vision, however, when he picked up the microphone in front of him, the club went quiet.

"Good evening," He greeted with a smooth voice. "I apologize for the sudden change in schedule. The other band seemed to have issues with their drummer. I needed to vent off a bit, so, I came looking for a place in the schedule where I could fit. I hope all of you understand," He explained with a tamed tone and a calm expression. "Now, for the cover. Once more, like any other performance I make. The credit for these songs goes to the original writers and performers. Thank you for creating these, let us begin."

His horn suddenly flared up with a magenta color, there was an odd amount of negativity pouring out of him like a bunch of instruments began to blare across the room. However, when he began to sing, the negativity began to dissolve. Especially when his voice twisted into a scream that made me believe he was planning on ruining his throat. The longer he sang, the greater the number of negative emotions he dissolved. That pony was angry, and it wanted to make it obvious how angry they were. If it were a changeling, they would have lashed out at the nearest drone. This pony, however, seemed to be attacking the words he screamed. His attacks weren't directed at anyone but the lyrics. And his assault was relentless enough to make me wonder how could the crowd cheer him on and love him so adamantly.

And when he stopped his singing, I could see him panting and breathing heavily through his shoulders. The negativity was gone and now a pinkish aura emanated from him as well. That pony loves to sing. And it helps him. I mused while watching him scan the room. Wandering lazily across the building, his eyes didn't show any interest in any of the ponies there.

I had to cease my feeding because collecting any more than what I had gained would have resulted in regurgitation of storing gel. Just like a pony, we changelings have a limit to how much nourishment we can process into proper nutrients. But unlike ponies that store the excess in the form of fat in their bodies, we changelings store it in a gel that we regurgitate. This process isn't unpleasant physiologically, but it is unpleasant to the sight. Especially since the gel quickly hardens into a purplish crystal that can be chewed on. Any of those sights (vomiting or the vomit hardening) would draw negative attention to me. That place was a gold mine for me, and I had to preserve my rights to enter such a place.

"Chrysalis," Cadance said with a bit more confidence, but still red as a tomato. "I need to say two things. First, I want to know why you licked my bust, face, and horn clean in public while smiling at me like you were about to pounce me," She said with her face getting redder with every word. I stopped listening after that first part.

Honestly, I don't know what was so bad about it. We, changelings, have greater control over our bodily functions than ponies do. And with such control, we can limit how much saliva we secrete. I secreted the bare minimum so that my tongue would easily slip over her coat, almost like playful lovers teasing each other. Then I gingerly ran it through the affected areas to remove the donut's filling. Of course, I made it so I was flushing, and with a smile that made it clear, I enjoyed the play. I also made sure to tickle Cadance as I cleaned her making her chuckle and making her demand that I stopped my crude behavior. And of course, I also caressed Cadance's jaw and cheek with my fingers while making sure she was looking into my eyes as I made her squeaky clean. The intent was to draw some love for eroticism towards us from the ponies around us. But it only brought lust.

And it wasn't such a big deal, to me at least. Later on, I came to realize it might be harmful to her image to display such behavior in public. Therefore, I will refrain from doing that on public, but teasing her every once in a while might be an enjoyable hobby.

"Excuse me," A familiarly smooth voice greeted causing me to almost fall of my seat. "Yeah, you match the description," The pony said while placing a black case on the table. "Listen, a friend of mine gave me these to shut me up about a failed meeting he would have today with a mare that matches your description. I have about twenty of these, so just take these and go speak with him when you can. The guy is lonely enough as it is. You can probably find him at the library. That place is a second home for him," He explained before taking his leave.

I picked the small casing and opened it. Within it, there were a pair of emerald green-framed glasses along with a note. These are a little invention of mine. They allow the user to read way faster than a regular pony. To you, it would be as if you're reading at a normal pace. However, you will notice that your progress is much faster. I can't do much for the comprehension part or memorization. However, reading the contents enough times for memorization shouldn't be a problem for you now. I hope it helps with your endeavors. I looked up to the stallion, only to find that he had already left.

I felt, concerned, to say the least. The device seemed to be perfectly measured to fit my face. There was certain attention to detail as there was some sort of mixture of green and gold on the glasses frame to create the design of flowers on the sides of the accessory. There was too much thought put into the frame. There were remnants of emotions embedded within the object. Hints of love and passion mixed with anxiety and fear. I have no intention of deepening my relationship with that stallion. However, it would seem that he misunderstood my proposal for information exchange. I mused while returning the accessory to the case.

"Chrysalis, what was he talking about?" Cadance asked while eyeing the case I had just closed.

"Which part did you not understand?" I inquired while searching for anything different in the case itself. Which was just plain plastic, surprisingly enough. "The part in which I had a meeting with a pony and you kept me from it? Or the part in which you were completely ignored by a male that focused solely on me?" I replied with a grin.

Cadance opened her mouth to respond, however, she recoiled as it finally seemed to dawn on her that both events had occurred. She then frowned looked towards the stage exit, back at the floor, and then at me. Suddenly covering her mouth with a gasp, Cadance spoke. "I am so sorry! You told me you had an appointment and I assumed you just wanted to avoid me," She said with a worried expression on her face. Then she turned red and began to fidget in place while pouting. "And, you're right. He completely ignored me. That was a first. No one has ignored me since I became a princess," She muttered while making a small disk that was on the table move with her fingers.

"Feeling down because one stallion didn't pay attention to you?" I inquired while glancing around the place. Ponies started to take notice of me, but unlike the rest of the places we visited, they weren't avoiding eye contact. Strangely enough, some attempted to wave a greeting. "It won't be the last time someone ends up ignoring you. It means that they either did intentionally to bother you, or you didn't appeal to their interests. If you let that bother you, you probably have a hard time as time goes on," I explained. I felt somewhat more talkative now that I had some food in me.

"Huh, so, the ex-queen of changelings can say nice things," Cadance commented with a pleasantly surprised tone. "Say, would you mind if I went with you tomorrow to apologize to the pony you were supposed to meet?" Cadance asked while getting up. "It's the least I can do."

"You can do whatever you want, princess," I replied while taking my leave as well.

As one might expect, the night was pretty quiet after that. Walking back to the castle, I could witness the bright and colorful streets of the city. Certainly, it is a much welcoming atmosphere than what the hive had to offer. It might be the amount of love I absorbed or me going soft, but the town looked much more welcoming after that stop in the club. The colors looked more vivid, the sounds on the street felt soothing, the muffled melodies coming from the buildings made me feel at ease.

Maybe this was a good choice after all. I pondered while walking towards the castle with Cadance by my side.

Dear Diary, I had one of the most unfortunate meetings today. I wanted to study for the upcoming test two months from now, time is of the essence. However, I was met with an unpleasant sight as I stumbled upon the ban of my existence in Celestia's School. This malevolent creature is known as Crystal Dawn, also known as Pain in the Flank. You might recognize the second name since I mentioned it in other entries on these pages. This annoying blockhead has been on my heels since he entered the school. Scoring second only by a few points in every test we make. Although, he compensates a bit by doing better than me in sports, even if only by a small margin. However, I got him beat in other aspects.

His social circle is non-existent, aside from his family as far as I know. While I possess friends in the school (even if they don't weight too much on my mind since I prefer to focus on academics). However, today, I received information directly from Pain in the Flank as he said he was supposed to meet a mare. A MARE of all things. I would be willing to bet with you that he was lying. Especially for the motives that he claimed to have for said meeting.

No mare in their right mind would bother with such an annoying and persistent stallion. Since day one he has been trying to beat me in academics and I responded by beating him in every test we had. The margin is close, but I ALWAYS come out on top. Perhaps if he wasn't fooling around with mares he would not be falling behind me at every test. Not that I believe he has ever spoken to mare beside me. Or that he can get close enough to one besides me.

Why am I so bothered by that lie?

I believe it's time to get some sleep.

HE IS SO INFURIATING!

Crystal Dawn was telling me the truth when he said he had a meeting with a mare yesterday! I saw it! He was in the library helping out a dark-coated mare with a green mane! She had a pair of black jeans with a bright green shirt that looked a bit too good on her! They were walking through the library and worst of all? Cadance was with them! Even if only for a moment, Cadance greeted him and then said something before leaving. I knew that Crystal Dawn, I mean, Pain in the Flank had been conned a few times for his glasses. Therefore, I knew he had to be a victim of that mare. However, throwing accusations without evidence would only pose a detriment to my cause. Which was only to prevent that idiot from making himself into a bigger idiot! There was no other motive!

Anyway, I tailed them the entire time they spent in the library, and then I tailed them when they got out. All for the sake of preventing my rival from being turned into a fool. Yeah! Because if he was a fool and was my rival, it would make me an even bigger fool! What follows is what I managed to learn and hear while using my spells to set up surveillance around them.

Walking into the library to get the required books for my studies, I caught sight of something that made me feel angry for no reason. I don't know why. I don't understand it. It is illogical anger that is simply directed at Crystal Dawn because he was talking to a stranger mare. They weren't talking, Crystal stood there while the black mare approached and pointed at Cadance that came by with a worried look on her face. Using a far sense spell, I managed to take a closer look and hear their conversation.

"You're Crystal Dawn, right?" Cadance asked while holding her hands. "We study in the same class. I'm sorry for preventing Chrysalis from meeting with you yesterday. I didn't believe her when she said she had a meeting with a pony," She said with an apologetic tone.

"I-I don't think y-you need to apologize. I-I wouldn't b-believe if s-someone told me that a p-pony like me was about to go m-meet a mare," Crystal replied while clenching his fists and trying his best to not have a breakdown in front of Cadance.

Why isn't he nervous like that when I'm around? He has the nerve to reply without hesitation and rebuke me without fear. So, why is he so shy near her?! I mused while looking at the nervous wreck that kept using all his might to hold out.

"Does that mean you forgive me?" Cadance asked pulling some puppy dog eyes. I expected Crystal to cave-in and just turn friendly towards her after that. However, what happened, was the complete opposite. His expression changed, the flustered face disappeared as a frown formed on his face. I had seen that expression a few times, but it usually occurred when he returned home and saw a carriage there.

"There is nothing to apologize for. Now, if both of you will excuse me, I have something else to do," Crystal replied with a cold voice that made Cadance recoil a bit and let out an embarrassed chuckle while the black mare widened her eyes at him. "Good day," He added while taking his leave, however, the black mare held his arm.

"I still have some things to speak to you about," The one Cadance referred to as Chrysalis said while pulling him closer. "It regards the materials for the citizenship test. And that pair of glasses your friend handed to me last night," She added finally making him stop struggling.

Friend? Crystal doesn't have any friends. At least, none that I know of. Maybe he hired someone to deliver the glasses to her? Yeah, that's got to be it. I concluded while picking a book and then taking a seat. I used the book to try and make myself less obvious to them.

"See you around, princess," Chrysalis said waving goodbye at Cadance that seemed to react to it, nod, and then walk away. "So, books?"

"Ok," He replied while freeing himself from her grip. "Take the same books from last time. You can read them and I help out if anything comes up. I'll fetch us a table," He added before walking off to the tables. The mare disappeared in between the bookshelves while he took a seat and pulled a few notebooks off his cape.

How did he pull those from there? It's just a plain cape! I inquired while gripping the book tighter.

"So," Chrysalis said while placing a couple of books on the table. "Before we start, I need to make something clear. This is a trade. You help me, I tell you about my species and how we function. I will omit information that can be used against us. So, do not expect anything else from this trade," She said with a serious voice. "The things I said before, they were just to tease you. They didn't mean anything. I want a quiet and comfortable life. Therefore, I will run for a noble or someone well established."

Crystal didn't respond, he kept reading his notebooks before taking a pen from his cape, and then started scribbling on the notebooks. "I understand what you mean. It is a sound plan. And like I said to the princess, I doubt anyone would be interested in me. However, what I don't understand is why you brought it up," Crystal replied while scribbling intensively on the notebooks.

Chrysalis then pulled out a case from her pocket and placed it on the table. "Don't you lie to me. I can see the love embedded in these glasses. Whenever someone pours their all into making something or is attached to an object emotionally, the object becomes marked with love."

WHAT?! LOVE?! WHAT IS SHE TALKING ABOUT! I screamed while nearly tearing a page from the book.

"I give my all whenever I make those accessories. Regardless of who is receiving them. It wasn't something directed to you," He replied without taking his eyes out of the notebook.

"So, how do you explain this thing being custom fit for me with especial decorations?" Chrysalis said while crossing her arms.

Crystal pulled a case like hers and placed it on the table. He then flipped the case, revealing a small symbol I couldn't make out because of the distance. "All the cases I make have these marks. And the glasses inside are the same in design and size. The insignia on the back of the case is what makes the glasses change. Once it comes in contact with the pony's, in this case, the changeling's skin, the glasses take the shape of my impressions of them. Plus, it makes a reading of your measurements and adjusts to fit the user."

Hearing that, I immediately pulled out the case he handed to me the previous day. When I opened it, I saw a frame the same color as my mane. There was some kind of faint sparkles on the surface as the light from the windows hit it. And on the sides, there were tons of books, my mark, and Celestia's emblem. I tried them on, and just Chrysalis said the glasses fit me perfectly.

"So, it wasn't custom made," Crystal said while flipping the page on the notebook. "There is no need to worry," He added with a disinterested tone. "My intentions with you are pure. All I want is information on your species and the ability to converse with others as naturally as you do."

"Social skills and knowledge of my species. In exchange for help with my studies. That seems like a fair trade," Chrysalis said while opening her books. She started to read them while using the glasses. Her eyes moved extremely fast as she turned the pages repeatedly. And then, she suddenly closed the book before looking at Crystal with an expression of awe. "I considered myself a fast reader. But this is ridiculous! It took me, what? Twenty minutes to read this entire tome?!"

"Twenty-three," Crystal replied while reading from a smaller book he pulled out his cape after returning the notebooks to it. "Anything from the book you would like to ask?"

"Not really," Chrysalis said while placing the book to the side. "Why do you make these?" She asked while leaning forward. "They are especially handy. If you were to sell them, you could have a decent source of income," She added while analyzing the glasses.

"I am well aware of that," Crystal said while reading the little book. "But, my reasons have nothing to do with our trade. You can rest easy for I do have plans. And, as far as I'm concerned, they don't mean anything to anyone but me," He added without removing his eyes from the glasses.

Since when you make plans? You always acted on impulse before. I mused while remembering him trying random ideas to talk to others, which resulted in awkward situations and him running off with his face red as a tomato.

"Don't be like that!" Chrysalis said in a different tone. "How about a little trade?" She added while batting of her eyelashes.

Crystal lowered his book and looked at her. I couldn't see his expression from where I was. But based on Chrysalis's reaction, she got his attention. What is she going to do? I'll cast the invisible eye spell. That should allow me to see how he reacts.

"What do you propose?" He asked with a slightly more interested tone.

"Before we get to that, there is something I need to confirm," Chrysalis said with a growing smirk. Crystal seemed worried as he watched her giggle. "Am I correct to assume these "social skills" you refer to is just about confidence?" Crystal bit his lip while frowning before nodding at her. "And am I correct to assume you at least think of having a relationship with someone?" Another nod from Crystal. "Do you have a pony in mind?"

At this point, my ears perked up for no apparent reason, and I began to pay more attention than before.

"I haven't thought of anyone, yet. Mainly because my primary concern is being able to hold a normal conversation with others. Then, I would attempt to court a pony of my choice. However, due to multiple mistakes on my part, I began to believe I wouldn't be able to do so," Crystal replied with a sad smile. For some reason, I felt relief. "Now that I think about it, I would hit another wall once I started courting. As I have no idea about what to do beyond the things described in books," He added while leaning back on his chair with a concerned smile. He stared towards my invisible eye for a few seconds but looked back at Chrysalis after blinking a few times.

"Well, in that case, here is a proposition for you: a little game of make-believe," She said while leaning forward, Crystal frowned at her remark. "Hear me out. You want the confidence to speak to others. But you also want to have a relationship. What if you could work on both fronts at the same time? I pretend to be your mare. This will give you experience in dealing with others AND experience on how relationships can work. And in exchange, you let me in your little scheme for these accessories. Having extra income isn't a bad thing at all. Plus, I can be very persuasive," She said with her fangs showing. "Something invaluable for business."

Crystal looked at her with a neutral look on his face. Scratching his chin while tapping his hoof, Crystal seemed to ponder the possibility. And that aggravated me for some reason. I don't understand why in Tartarus I was angry at the thought of a fake relationship between them.

"A business partner and a fake mate. That is an unusual yet interesting idea," He said with a half-smile. "I'll take you up on your offer, Partner," He said while offering his hand to her. She took it and they shook hands. "I'll take this chance to take your name as well. Now, for a better introduction. My name is Crystal Dawn, what is yours, M'lady?" That line, that single line made me tear a few pages from the book. I grit my teeth while squirming on my seat.

WHY AM I SO ANGRY?! HE IS MY RIVAL! YOU FUCKING HORSE!

"My name is Chrysalis. The ex-Queen of Changelings," She said while stretching her leg.

"Pleasure to meet you," He said while moving up and down. "Now, once you finish the rest of your books. We can discuss the details of how to make this work," He added with a smile.

"Agreed," She replied with a devious smile on her face.

And thus, proceeded a long and quiet wait for them to say something as Chrysalis proceeded to dart through the remaining books. I kept my spells going while paying close attention to other conversations. The best I could hear were a few questions about herding laws (which made me almost damage the book again) and something about nobility status.

"I think this is the best I can make from these books," Chrysalis said while making the books float back to their position. "It will be repetition from now on," She added while getting up.

Crystal accompanied her lead while returning his small book into his cape. "Well, I wish I could take us to an adequate place to discuss the details of this agreement. The best I can do right now is ice cream," Crystal said while taking the lead. "Do you eat that?"

"Yes, I can eat things that ponies eat. But, it doesn't provide anything close to sustenance," She replied earning a smile from Crystal that with a happy demeanor he took her hand and lead her out. I had to mend the book I had with me with magic before tailing them out of the library.

I hid behind trees, seats, bushes, other ponies, walls, and streetlights. I followed them until they arrived at my favorite ice cream store. Icy Color's cold treats. I've come here on my own whenever I beat him for the top score at the end of the semester. The closest thing I ever had from what they were about to do was my brother coming with me. I picked a booth on the inside of the store while they took a seat outside. I kept my spells going to keep tabs on what they were talking about. I also ordered a milkshake to try and calm my nerves.

"This thing is huge," Chrysalis said after their order arrived. It was the cheapest thing on the menu. Why? Because it was a challenge to see anyone finish the thing.

"Well, it is a challenge to eat this thing on its whole. I am a bit of a sweet tooth. Plus, with an order this big, we can take our time talking," Crystal said with a broad smile. I had never seen him smile like that. And it irked me to see that mare be the one to make him smile like that.

"Well, the first lesson for you: when you invite a pony of interest out, do not treat it like a business meeting," Chrysalis replied while taking a bite out of it. "This is sweet. Almost like that donut from yesterday," She added while leaning forwards with a strange look on her face. "Now, this trade you keep referring to. It won't work if you treat it like a contract. Relationships are weird and change based on how the participants are feeling. It's like tossing dice. Sometimes you get a good number, sometimes a bad one."

"But, what about the ponies that are always happy? Or the happily ever after in books?" Crystal asked, causing me to snort. I couldn't believe he thought that was real. And it's not like I ever thought of a thing like that. No, that is something for little fillies.

"They are probably faking it. There is no such thing as a relationship with only happy times," She said while taking another piece of the ice cream. A malicious smile appeared on her muzzle as she watched the stallion skulk for a bit and eat a spoon of the treat. "Unless they having fun twenty-four seven. Then, I would bet they would be happily ever after," She added while watching Crystal choke and wheeze while turning red. I, of course, kept my composure and dignity. I did not choke and have ice cream come out of my nose.

"D-do you always approach that subject without any kind of care?" Crystal asked in between coughs.

"Only when I want to tease someone," Chrysalis replied with a smirk and playing with the spoon in her mouth. "Changelings don't exactly have a way to mess with each other. Since our default emotion is grumpy."

"That sounds a bit problematic," Crystal replied with a frown. "Wouldn't it be a pain to have a simple talk to just about anyone since they would be aggressive all the time."

"That's because it is a hassle," Chrysalis said while taking another bite off the treat. "But, let's change the subject. It was a good move to bring your partner with a place with sweets. Most ponies tend to like sweets, therefore, it was a safe bet. Paying for food was also a good choice," She praised while making circles with her spoon.

"That's good to hear. At least, I'm not completely clueless," Crystal said while letting out a sigh.

"Be careful though. If you're too good at this, I might stick around," Chrysalis said with a purr as Crystal once more turned red and I ended up breaking my spoon. I expected him to come up with a retort or shoot her down. However, he didn't say a thing. He just stood there staring at Chrysalis. "So, little pony, who are you in this city?"

"Well, as I said before, I am Crystal Dawn. I am the son of a baronet. But, due to some circumstances, I also received the title of Baronet. However, it will only take effect once I'm eighteen years old," Crystal replied with a meek smile. I knew he was odd, but I wasn't aware he was a noble.

Chrysalis seemed to take that information with a tad more interest than the rest of their conversation up to that point. I assume that she is planning something, however, what it was is beyond me. Especially since things changed a bit after that.

"What about you? I know your name, but what about who you are? Is there anything you're willing to share?" Crystal asked while I gritted my teeth at the tone and interest he kept showing to her. I don't understand why he never asked any of that of me. All he ever asked was how much I scored on my tests.

"I am no one. I have a history with Equestria, but right now, I am no one," Chrysalis replied while reaching for something on top of her head. However, she had nothing on her head. "Without a title, you're not worth much," She said while her confident face melted for a few seconds. I won't deny that I felt something pleasant seeing that, but I feel bad.

"Well, you aren't no one. You have a name and a story. I can hardly call that nothing," Crystal said while eating another bite of the ice cream. "If you were a no one, you would walk around unnoticed. But, here you are. Grabbing everyone's attention by just being yourself. If that's not being someone, I don't know what is," He added while staring at the sky. Meanwhile, Chrysalis stared at him with a surprised look as I had my jaw on the floor. That was out of character for him.

"Are you sure you never had a relationship before? Because that's the sort of thing that might get you into one. Especially if you say it at the right moment," Chrysalis said as she looked at the ice cream and took the last bite. "Well, this has been amusing, but I believe I need to go."

"Understood, it was a very informative experience, thank you," Crystal replied with his usual behavior back.

Silence reigned for a few seconds, I assumed that they were not about to have a second fake date. Especially since Chrysalis kept staring at the ground while Crystal took out his notebook and started scribbling.

"Screw it, when can we meet again?" Chrysalis suddenly snapped with a snarl. "You're somewhat annoying and useful. So, I can tolerate this deal of ours for a while. I had the intention of ditching after this thing was over. But, I think I can benefit more if I keep this up," She added while scowling at Crystal. Meanwhile, I spilled part of my ice cream through my nose.

"I don't know? I believe the optimal options would be during weekends. I can manage my time for studying and going out, what do you think?" He proposed with his usual tone back.

"Next weekend? I'll see if I am available," Chrysalis said while getting up and leaving.

I need to figure out when they are going to meet. I won't let make him into an idiot. I concluded while rushing to the toilet.

And that concluded my observation of the subjects in question.

I had a date today, a fake one, but a date nonetheless. It would seem that pony behavior is infectious. Or it could be a side effect of having my link severed. But I allowed myself to look vulnerable without the intent to. I need to verify the reason for this and rectify this problem as soon as possible. I want a normal life, but I will not become weak to do so.

I will continue to record my experiences later. Someone is knocking at my door.

Author's Note

This thing is getting bigger.

I hope you enjoyed it, thanks for reading!

Let me know what you think of the chapter!