The lights of Canterlot dusted a tapestry of artificial constellations on the pavement of the bustling central square; the lampposts, strategically placed to guide anyone's path, seemed to be stars about to fall that, in a sincere effort to highlight their ephemeral beauty in an attempt to show off their splendor, seemed to cling briskly to the land of Equestria.

The royal family, momentarily unburdened of the burden of their titles and responsibilities, were walking into the bustling, partying heart of Canterlot, where they hoped their status would be blurred, at least for a few hours. The crowd around them was enveloped in a whirlwind of conversation and laughter, it was not uncommon for some in the crowd to pause, surprised and almost incredulous. Their ordinariness revealed the ephemerality of normalcy in their lives, a privilege that unicorns had rarely experienced amidst crowns and duties.

Shinning advanced alongside Aster and Moonflower, with a posture that exuded calm and control. However, inside, a storm of thoughts debated her on the idea of heading to such a... mundane place. The reality was that the conviction of Moonflower, who had managed to sway Aster's decision, had made it difficult for her to refuse the proposal. But there she was, approaching what promised to get her out of the rut, and of course it would, but not in the way she would wish. The wonderbolts led the group, some did not bother to hide their surprise at the positive response from her, Aster and Moonflower to go, and of course there were speculative whispers about Blooming's absence, but fortunately the captain of the Bolts was the one who ventured to ask and with a quick excuse, managed to take her sister out of the main focus, once again...

It's not like she was pleased to see her sister starring in the role of Rainbow Dash all the time, truth be told, she didn't want Blooming to get used to typecasting her personality in that character due to the fact that they had no other nearby resource to avoid the suspicion of Rainbow Dash's absence, as it happened at the gala. But for some reason, it no longer unsettled her to see the multicolored pegasus figure walking so close to the sturdy celestial steed, perhaps it was because she knew that the real Rainbow Dash was by her side, and that bestowed a strange comfort. It reassured her to know that Moonflower seemed to be normalizing to her new lifestyle, she knew that now that would be her place.

• "I don't know how they can act so natural in the face of so much public scrutiny" - Shinning muttered referring to the Bolts, her eyes scanning their surroundings without avoiding crossing the curious and quizzical gazes of the Canterlot ponies.

• "aaammhh because is it more common to cross paths with the Wonderbolts in the bars of Canterlot than with the royal unicorn family?" - replied Moonflower with irony and some obviousness in her tone to Shinning, who responded with a heavy sigh before rolling her eyes.

• "Relax" - Aster replied, turning to look at his sister with a reassuring smile - "Half the ponies are too busy with their own adventures to notice ours."

• "How sure can you be of that?" - Shinning observed him with a raised eyebrow - "the mares haven't stopped ogling you since we left the castle. I'm surprised you haven't done anything about it Moonflower."

• "What did you intend for me to do?" - Her eyes, magenta and full of curiosity, scrutinized Shinning with a mixture of surprise and amusement. The disbelief in her gaze was evident - "seriously, I'd advise you to go out more often Shinning" - And with a turn of the unicorn's head that conversation was closed. Moonflower and Aster exchanged complicit glances, laughing softly.

It had already become a habit to respond to Shinning's complaints, or at least as far as they got to the bar, she actually longed to feel the coldness of the cider down her throat, hoping it might bring her a few minutes of clarity. However, her eyes couldn't help but stray to "Dash" and Soarin, who were walking side by side in front of her. Though she wouldn't admit it even to herself, there was a small flame of discomfort burning inside her as she watched Soarin lean confidently towards who he thought was her, smiling with an ease that irritated her, especially since she knew it wasn't her.

Blooming rested comfortably on the shoulder of the steed, whose wing wrapped around her like a soft and warm feather sweater as they walked, she decided to surrender to the night, she didn't feel like thinking or articulating, "Just keep going," at least that was what Dash had advised her when they left for the bar so she could feel lighter. It had been quite a while since she last heard Dash's thoughts through the mental link, it was just an enveloping silence that had taken over her mind, giving her iridescent peace rest.

• "You've been very quiet on the way, everything okay, Dash?" - Soarin asked, who was walking beside her, his wing twitching slightly in a gesture that sought to attract her attention

Blooming, caught in the dilemma of maintaining the fearless facade, sketched a smile that she hoped was convincing, a fruitless attempt to keep her face from betraying the fragility that inhabited her at that moment - "Of course, all good" - she replied, adding a layer of confidence that she knew was not entirely authentic. Her voice tried to emulate the carefree tone that Dash - "you know, I just want to..." - With a slight tilt of her head, she looked up in a deliberate gesture, seeking eye contact with the young pegasus, she hated to admit that noticing the closeness made her nervous - "...relax" - her words crashed through the air, blowing out a nervous laugh that betrayed her in an instant, but that Soarin didn't mind in the slightest, he smiled.

Moonflower, who walked behind, felt her ears tense involuntarily as she listened and watched the conversation from a distance - "Blooming, not for nothing, but remember to keep your distance" - Moonflower's voice echoed like a persistent, steady echo towards Blooming there was something in the emotional connection she saw in every movement, in every smile that pretended to belong to her - "I'm not usually so... close with Soarin. Don't do something to make me look different, will you?" - she reminded her in a whisper that only her own consciousness could pick up on, it seemed more like a warning to Blooming

Blooming took a deep breath, trying not to seem affected by Dash's message and tone. - "Take it easy, Dash. I'm doing the best I can" - she replied, though the nervousness showed in her mental tone.

As they approached their destination, the streets came alive with the unmistakable beat of the music filtering through the windows of the bar, each beat vibrating on the floor like an invitation to immerse themselves in an atmosphere of euphoria, where neon lights bathed the walls in violet and electric blue tones that seemed to beat to the rhythm of the party. It didn't take them long to announce themselves at the entrance, after all the security guards let them pass without hesitation, probably recognizing the visitors and the royal family. And as suddenly as they arrived, the citrus freshness that pulsated between the amber notes of the liqueur began to envelop their nostrils and envelop them in the atmosphere.

The group was taken to an exclusive area, although not so far away from the crowd and the other recreational spaces offered by the place, such as the dance floor, the pool table, the betting area, among others. Each of them plopped down on the comfortable sofas that surrounded their table.

Blooming and Shinning, still with a hint of caution, looked around them. Their eyes, accustomed to the elegance of the royal halls, now scanned the corners of the bar with curiosity: the dance floor where bodies moved like liquids in constant metamorphosis, shadows lengthened and intertwined in an intimate ballet, drawing ephemeral figures that faded to the beat of the music, the pool table where polished spheres glittered neatly as the players clustered around the table, their faces lit up with anticipation and competitiveness. Shinning watched as a curly-haired steed, with an impish grin and a knowing wink, invited her to join the game. She turned her head in disbelief and hurried to stick to Moonflower.

A waiter approached the table matter-of-factly, a young unicorn he brought with him with a tray balanced on his hoof with light shots of schnapps revealing flashes of colors that promised an explosion of flavors that would welcome the evening. the unicorn stopped in front of the group and his gaze lit up - "I see you have brought good company tonight Wonderbolts" - he said in a voice charged with enthusiasm as he set the shots on the table - "on the house. what else would you like to drink?" - he asked professionally

Shinning raised an eyebrow and let out a short laugh - "I guess you don't serve jasmine tea here" - she commented with a hint of sarcasm, drawing a loud laugh from some flyers.

• "Oh princess, how funny, here jasmine comes in the form of gin and believe me when I tell you that you'll want to try it" - replied Fleetfoot with a mischievous grin while indicating with a gesture to the waiter who nodded immediately.

• "A bottle of the best whiskey you have, and plenty of ice of course" - Spitfire mentioned leaning forward a little confidently, her gaze swept over the waiter's face with an intensity that seemed like an extra challenge. The surroundings resounded with murmurs of approval from her companions, obviating the royal unicorns.

• "And what about the cider? I've heard that one jug has the quality to want two more" - declared Moonflower, her words sounded more like an order than a suggestion. That suggestion undoubtedly brought everyone's surprise, Shinning and Aster exchanged a look of disbelief, as if the mare had proposed something unthinkable for what her appearance projected. The waiter nodded with a bow so subtle it could barely be considered a movement, before disappearing into the tangle of ponies and lights.

• "Well, looks like there's going to be a good round" - Fleetfoot said, letting out a playful laugh that echoed through the air with a sly grin. The Bolts raised the glasses the waiter had brought moments before to the center of the table and toasted with a clinking of glasses, their eyes sparkling with a mixture of amusement and defiance.

Moonflower raised her glass determinedly, ready to join in, Shinning, unable to contain her puzzlement, stopped her - "You're not serious, are you?" - her tone was a mixture of reproach and genuine concern.

Moonflower turned her head towards her, raising an eyebrow with a defiant air - "you expected me to come here just to look?" - she replied with a mocking laugh, her tone imbued with an assurance that no one knew where it came from - "I don't see much point in that" - Without further ado she moved the shot closer towards her and before Shinning could respond, Moonflower raised her glass towards Aster, who was watching her with a mixture of curiosity, they crossed glances - "Or did you?" - without further ado, the mare tilted her neck slightly and drank the contents of the shot in one gulp.

Aster, visibly amused by Moonflower's attitude, let out a restrained chuckle and shrugged his shoulders. With a wave of his magic, he levitated his own cup and drank the contents in two long sips and, after setting it down, wrinkled his muzzle slightly, the gesture of disgust that followed the gulp so quick it almost went unnoticed. Shining crossed her paws, the bolts burst out laughing at the situation by gently tapping a hoof on the table.

Blooming, aware of her role as Rainbow Dash, felt the pressure of the mental link. To her luck, the real Dash helped her, or so it seemed she wanted to do....

• "Hey Dash, what you don't want you can leave to me" - replied Moonflower with a spark of mischief lit in her magenta eyes in the direction of the pegasus who hadn't even touched her glass. She knew exactly the effect her comment would have on those present.

• "Oh no no no no, how kind of you Moonflower, but this is nothing to our champion drinker, is it Dash?" - Soarin said suddenly at her side, cheering her on with his wing, Blooming felt all eyes settle on her. A bead of cold sweat ran down the back of her neck.

• "Drinker champion!?" -exclaimed the sisters' thoughts in Rainbow's mind like a distant echo, a mixture of surprise drawing disbelief on their faces.

• "Ahm you just...go along with them" - Dash's voice was heard, haughty but tinged with an almost palpable embarrassment, her resignation tangled with the slight blush that colored her amused cheeks.

• "I can't do this, how did we not know this, how did you come to be known for something so...loud?" - Blooming's voice burst from within her, her tone laden with exasperation and uncertainty, she hadn't expected her to have to act like it.

• "Just relax and follow my instructions" - Dash told her, trying to stay calm - "take a deep breath before you drink it okay, try to swallow it fast, don't hold it in your mouth. If you can, hold your nose or hold your breath for a few brief minutes and the taste won't linger long in your throat. You will feel a brief burning at first, but it will be quickly replaced by a lingering warmth in your throat" - Dash's instructions sounded more like a survival strategy, Blooming swallowed dryly as she nodded, her countenance reflecting a serenity she didn't feel at all.

• "I can't believe what I'm hearing" - Shinning muttered with disapproval in her voice.

Just then, the drinks they had ordered earlier arrived, the glasses reflecting a kaleidoscopic mix of hues. The Wonderbolts looked at the glasses expectantly, and Blooming felt her stomach turn and swallowed thickly.

• "There it is!" - Fleetfoot exclaimed, raising her glass and twirling it in anticipation. Blooming, however, felt a growing nervousness in her stomach, stirring her light blue pegasus body into place. Laughter and approvals echoed around her.

Without further ado, Moonflower took a glass of cider and, without a squeak, raised the glass with determination and, in the blink of an eye, the drink disappeared between her lips, leaving the empty glass on the table with a noisy rudeness.

Shinning crossed her legs and frowned, her eyes watching Moonflower with a mixture of resignation - "it's not appropriate for you to be behaving this way, remember who you are" - she whispered to Moonflower, leaning in so that only she would hear, but it was far from convincing.

Fleetfoot burst out laughing infectiously, tapping the table gently with a hoof - "That's what I meant. Come on Dash, don't tell me Moonflower is leaving you behind on this" - she insisted with light nudges to her side.

Spitfire leaned forward, raising her drink with a wide grin - "I don't know, Dash is kind of off tonight. If she's the same mare I know, she won't leave a drop in the glass" - she told her in a defiant tone - "if you are who you say you are" - that comment brought an unsettling shiver down Blooming and Shinning's spine.

Blooming, sensing the challenge, straightened up in her seat - "of course I am" - said Rainbow with a confident hesitation in her voice, took her glass and following Dash's mental instructions, closed her eyes, took a deep breath, held her nose and took a sip. The liquor was like liquid fire going through her throat, a heat that spread to her cheeks and ears. An intense heat that made her cough slightly, a gesture that made her companions laugh.

-"Haha, not bad for the first of many" - Soarin exclaimed beside her, raising his own drink with a knowing smile. Fleetfoot joined in enthusiastically, pouring another round. On the other side of the table, Moonflower slightly tensed her posture next to Aster, despite the amusement, something inside her began to fret.

• "Way to go" - Lightning added smiling sideways as he slid a steaming glass of whiskey towards Rainbow. Blooming gulped as she saw the glass in front of her. Before she could articulate an excuse, Fleetfoot raised her own glass and toasted.

• "Here's to us" - she uttered aloud. Blooming watched in amazement as they all clinked their glasses with a burst of unison glass. Moonflower's laughter intertwined with Aster's, joining in the toast, while Shinning's expression showed her distaste for the taste. She drank from her glass.

With laughter and jokes filling the air, another glass appeared in front of Rainbow, slid by Thunderlane, who looked at her with a defiant gleam in his eyes - "That's the third one barely, you're not giving up so soon" - with a resigned sigh, she took the glass and, despite her stomach contracting with anxiety, repeated the cycle with a determined movement, allowing the liquid to burn her throat as the previous two did. This time, however, the burning had a new nuance; the taste burned her more than before, leaving her dizzy.

• "I told you she just needed this to be back" - Fleetfoot commented amusedly in the direction of Spitfire, who, with a serene but mischievous face, toasted beside her.

Despite the laughter and the apparent approval of the Wonderbolts, Shinning detected the slight tremor in Blooming's hoof as she set the glass on the table, and the subtle change in her eyes that indicated the impact of the alcohol - "That's enough, this can't go on like this" - she said addressing both Dash and Blooming.

• "Relax, Blooming just needs a breather. If you want I'll go get something to help her calm the taste" - Dash proposed firmly, while the aforementioned who was listening to the conversation, nodded to her over the table.

• "I'll walk you over" - added Shinning, getting up from her seat followed by Moonflower at her side, who bowed to Aster before retreating with Shinning

• "We'll be right back Aster" - Moonflower announced to him with a light tone before following Shinning towards the bar. He smiled in response, nodding with a warm expression of acceptance.

As Moonflower and Shinning made their way to the bar, the others began to discuss what activity to do next as they continued with the bottles in their hooves

• "How about we go play a little game?" - Thunderlane suggested, with an enthusiastic smile and face lit up.

• "Yeah, how about games of chance and gambling?" - Fire Streak replied energetically, encouraging the others. Misty Fly and Blaze nodded, and a domino effect occurred, chairs dragged against the floor as the group stood up, heading towards the aforementioned area.

• "Why don't you join us, Aster? It'll be more fun than waiting for them to come back, won't it?" - Misty Fly proposed, with a convincing spark in her eyes. Aster accepted the proposal without much to think about, letting himself be carried away by the sense of belonging that coiled around him.

The glasses sparkle clean and shiny under the dim lighting, reflecting the colors of the bottles lining the shelves. The ices move with a gentle clink inside the freshly washed glasses. Behind the bar, the bartender moves with grace and efficiency, his hooves deftly mixing and pouring the drinks. He glided over his station like an ice skater, ready to prepare a mocktail freshly requested by the two mares behind the bar.

• "I can't believe you're enticing Blooming to drink" - Shinning chided, her tone firm as she looked at Moonflower directly, who, calm and confident, just smiled in a nonchalant manner.

The pegasus rolled her eyes, challenging Shinning's seriousness - "I was just guiding her so no one would get suspicious, we need her to act as much like me as possible" - defended Moonflower seeking to downplay the burden of what the unicorn was suggesting

Shinning frowned and crossed her hooves, a gesture that Dash did not go unnoticed granting it as a behavior of her own when she was upset. - "So what, you're just going to let them push her around until she loses track of herself?"

• "If you don't want her to be in that situation anymore, let me take my body and we'll make up some excuse for Moonflower's absence" - she told her with a shrug as if it was the only way out that she saw would benefit both parties but which she knew Shinning didn't want to touch

Shinning exhaled heavily, looking out into the crowd as the music filled in the gaps in their conversation - "Keeping this identity game going is more complicated than I thought" - she finally released her thoughts after a few minutes.

Moonflower looked at her, processing every syllable of what the unicorn said and shook her head slowly, letting a whisper of disbelief escape her lips - "I'm surprised that surprises you" - she exclaimed with a tone full of irony. To the fortune of the evening for both of them the mocktail was ready.

Moonflower took the drink with her wing - "This should help Blooming get the alcohol down" - she told her as they both started to head back towards their table - "You know, I think it would help her to be more at ease to know that you are too. Everyone's here to be entertained, you should be too." - Shinning looked at her, evaluating her words, but said nothing.

The bustle of the bar seemed to open up as they passed, creating an invisible corridor between the dancing and drinking bodies. When they arrived, they found the table partially empty, they glimpsed Fleetfoot gesticulating while telling some story that provoked laughter among those present, laughter that even "Rainbow" shared, noticing herself less tense and calmer than when they left. However, they couldn't help but feel the absence of some members.

• "Ah, there you are" - exclaimed High Wings as she saw Moonflower and Shinning approaching - "We thought you had abandoned us, everything okay?" - she asked to make sure as she slowly sipped her drink.

• "All under control" - replied Moonflower, exchanging a meaningful look with Shinning and taking her place at the table, leaving the mocktail on the table and dragging it towards Dash with her wing, who looked at the drink and although hesitating for a moment, finally took a sip. The coolness of the mocktail contrasted with the burn of the liquor she still felt in her throat, and a sigh of relief escaped her lips. Puzzled glances crossed the interaction between the two, but neither said anything.

• "Where's Aster?" - Moonflower asked, her gaze scanning the space and familiar faces with precision.

-"He's in the betting area with the others," - Soarin replied, leaning back on the couch and stretching his wings, wrapping one of them around Dash's shoulders - "They say he's enjoying himself more than he should, which is a good sign. " - Moonflower's eyes narrowed sharply as she took a seat next to Shinning.

• "Well, while they're back... how about we do something to lighten the mood?" - Fleetfoot suggested with a glint of mischief in her eyes - "I propose a 'I never' to start breaking the ice" - A murmur of anticipation went around the table.

• "What's that?" - Shinning asked skeptically, scanning the Bolts' faces, hoping for some explanation.

• "It's simple," - Soarin interjected to begin his brief explanation of the rules - "You make statements about something you've never done, and if someone at the table has done it, they must admit it with a swig of their drink. If you know that someone has done it, but doesn't drink, you can pressure him or her by threatening to tell if that ponie doesn't drink" - the excitement hovered in the attitude of the participants and in a few minutes, the round table was effected in order to start the game.

• "I suggested it, so I'll start," - Fleetfoot declared, straightening up in her place with a glint of mischief in her eye - "I've never... pretended to be sick to avoid an engagement" -Nearly everyone at the table moved their glasses to drink, eliciting a few guffaws, including Shinning.

• "Very smooth Fleet, carry on, I've never accidentally kissed someone" - Wave Chill said, his gaze pointed at Spitfire, who burst out laughing and took a sip. The laughter continued for a few brief seconds, but the mood began to change subtly when Rainbow Dash spoke up

• "I've never... flirted with someone just to get something to my benefit" - A collective "Whew!" sound echoed around the table, the comment came with a glance directly at Moonflower, who watched her quizzically but it didn't take her long to solve the riddle. Lightning and Fleetfoot drank without hesitation, their laughter filling the air. But it was Moonflower who drew the most attention as she raised her glass and took a sip, her gaze fixed on Blooming. That confirmed to her that Blooming was referring to a direct allusion to the interaction with Soarin earlier that morning.

• "My turn" - Moonflower demanded, her voice firm and determined, capturing everyone's attention. Without waiting for a response, she continued - "I have never manipulated someone else's free will in my favor to get ahead" - a dense silence fell over the table. Blooming blinked, her magenta orbs, which did not belong to her, reflected bewilderment before she looked at Moonflower, sensing that somehow that comment included her. Surprise hit her when Shinning, in a slow but deliberate motion, lifted her bottle and drank. She didn't think she would admit it like that. Moonflower was also perplexed, as she had not expected any reaction from the mares, especially Shinning, in fact, she had only thrown out the phrase as a warning, seeking to tease, but Shinning's honest response caught her completely off guard.

Surprise, seeking to break the tension, interjected - "Phew, that was deep. We'd better get back to something fun. I've...never had any thoughts of attraction to anyone at this table" - The table exploded in nervous laughter, and some began to raise their glasses without hesitation. Wave Chill and High Wings were the first, Soarin felt the stares on him, rolled his eyes and just took a drink. Fleetfoot and Spitfire's eyes landed on "Dash", who was incredibly still, with complicit smiles.

-"Nothing to declare Dash?" - Spitfire asked with a smile that was anything but innocent, seeking to provoke a reaction.

Blooming, in the role of Dash, blinked twice - "Oh, I... I don't know what you mean" - she replied with a nervous laugh, but the left wing betrayed her nervousness when she shifted slightly. Unaccustomed to such knowing looks from the life she was trying to act, she searched Moonflower's gaze for clues, but it too was looking at her puzzled.

Fleetfoot raised an eyebrow, clearly not satisfied with the evasive answer. - "Oh come on, it's not that hard to hide" - she smiled, enjoying the awkward situation she found herself in, sooner or later she'd have to admit it anyway. Before Blooming could think of what to answer, someone interrupted her thoughts.

• "Or maybe it's too obvious to admit" - Shinning said suddenly, causing more than one to raise eyebrows with her comment. Moonflower heard her joints creak as she turned to look at her harshly, making a groan of irritation, Fleetfoot's eyes drifted to Moonflower, she narrowed them as she noticed that glint of displeasure at Shinning's comment.

Blooming, caught in the role, had no choice but to resign herself to picking up her bottle and taking a sip, hopin git would be enough to calm whatever was going on, drawing triumphant exclamations from Spitfire and Fleetfoot.

• "See, I told you so!" - exclaimed Spitfire, nudging Fleetfoot playfully, as laughter filled the table again. Fleetfoot laughed, but her gaze lingered on Moonflower a little longer than usual before turning to "Dash." who had a confused gleam in her eyes, she kept watching Shinning, who was also laughing at the situation, but which to Blooming was a mockery of the position she was in, a situation her sister had gotten her involved in.

• "by now you'll finish the bottle Blooming" - mentioned Shinning mockingly through the link,rubbing her sister's pride - "you're really bad at this game" - Blooming took a deep breath, trying not to respond to the provocation.

• "I admit it's funny" - replied Rainbow from the bond, with resignedamusement in her voice - "But remember, it's my image you're tarnishing there."

• "I continue" - Dash said, her voice cutting the air like an unexpected whip, a defiant glint illuminating her gaze. - "I never got involved in my sister's romantic relationship in order to gain some popular relevance" - A sepulchral silence descended on the table. The previous laughterevaporated like dew under the midday sun, the glasses were suspended halfway.

• "Please Dash, that's very specific, who would do something like that?" - Soarin mentioned next to her emphasizing how absurd that sounded - "besides you don't even have a sist..." - The dry sound of Shinning's bottle hitting the table interrupted him, a long drink.Both mares' gazes turned to daggers, Moonflower's jaw was close to touching the floor.

But Dash, or rather Blooming, simply shrugged her shoulders with a neutrality so studied as to be almost artificial. - "Things you hear about, I didn't think it was true" - she replied, too quickly to be completely casual - "a fluke" - The Wonderbolts exchanged glances, but neither dared to go too deeply.

Shinning, sensing that she had to counterattack, watched Dash's body with sharp eyes but a state of calm - "Okay, my turn," - she stated with a calmness that seemed calculated, her eyes fixed on "Dash" - "I have never stolen the attention of someone close to me at a very important moment, like...I don't know, a coronation, for example" - The sentence was said with a soft, almost harmlesstone, but its edge was undeniable

The impact was instantaneous, Moonflower felt the air leave her lungs as she let out a choked breath - "Shinning Marigold!!!" - she said and looked at her harshly as the multicolored pegasus sitting in front of them drank from her bottle but nobody noticed at well.

• "Oh come on Shinning, that's funny" - Surprise interjected with a nervous laugh, trying to break the tension again. - "Let's talk about more common things, I've never been on an embarrassing date" - she said, taking the turn and returning the mood to its place. Spitfire, Lightning and Soarin drank next.

• "yeah well, I've never been the one to cause a disaster on someone else's date" - interjected Rainbow, choosing her words with precision without taking her eyes off Shinning, who wasn't far from finishing another bottle after this drink. Moonflower instead crashed her hooves against her forehead, unable to believe what she was witnessing.

The atmosphere at the table had evolved rapidly, filled with nervous laughter and challenging glances,most of them oblivious to the complexities of the reasons why the glasses and bottles were now empty and the rounds kept coming, while the participants now drank more for entertainment than interest, attributing every exchange as increasingly cryptic comments to alcohol, the same factor that had severed every thread that seemed to maintain the barrier of sense and sobriety.

• "Perfect" - Shinning said, with a sly smile lighting up her face, but her eyes exuded a provocative gleam. Moonflower knew she was no longer sane - "I've never used the ex of me..." - Before she could finish the sentence, Moonflower, with quick, precise movements, pulled the bottle from Shinning's front hooves, something she would hope was more of a warning than a simple interruption.

• "I've never lived a lie so big that it would end up destroying me if someone found out" - countered "Rainbow" in a brief whisper, barely understandable and audible due to drunkenness, although her voice was loaded with sincerity, it was a taut string on the verge of breaking

She did not look up as she spoke, on the contrary, she leaned back on the steed beside her in a more theatrical state of inebriation. Soarin, who, not quite understanding what was happening, instinctively reciprocated the touch, the same instinct that told him he should hold her despite his surprise and fatigue at observing how the Dash he knew had given in so quickly to the effects of alcohol and was now sobbing.

The Wonderbolts, at this point, were drinking out of boredom, oblivious to the depth of the conversation going on around them as they chatted about anything to distract themselves from thinking about it.

• "Do I really have to be the ONE to remind them who they are and who we are with?" - ]interrupted Rainbow, her voice echoing in the mental connection. But her words didn't seem to reach the sisters, at least not through the spell.

Shinning, staggering with the characteristic awkwardness of someone who has overstepped the bounds of sobriety, pinned her gaze defiantly on Moonflower, her face now tinged with mockery and what could be categorized as resentment - "And you as always in the role of the victim not Rainbow Dash?" - her tone was laden with an accusation that seemed meaningless to the Wonderbolts, but for Moonflower carried a personal weight that was hard to ignore. Looks were directed at them immediately, because of the way Shinning had blurted out the name that to the others was the wrong one.

Moonflower perceived those looks and became alarmed - "I'm afraid you're confusing your pony Shinning" - replied Moonflower, making an effort to keep her tone calm and neutral profile - "Please stop, you're already very drunk".

Shinning clearly had no intention of stopping, on the contrary, she leaned over and leaned on the multicolored mare. Her eyes were cloudy from the alcohol, scrutinizing Moonflower, she looked at her with a crooked smile - "don't come to tell me what to do. I know you know perfectly well who you are and, without my magic, you'd still be an insignificant pegasus" - Moonflower didn't answer, just rolled her eyes and turned her head, moving to shake it off, it wasn't worth continuing with that.

She caught a glimpse of Blooming, who under the shifting spell, had fallen asleep on Soarin's side, oblivious to the tension unfolding around her, Moonflower held her breath, feeling the heat creeping up her neck.

Fleetfoot kept watching them, her gaze shifting from one to the other, alternating between Moonflower's visible discomfort, palpable in the tightening of her lips and the way she avoided eye contact, and Shinning's out of control, something was going on beyond a game, it was obvious. She met Moonflower's imploring gaze as she seemed to be drawn into a situation unforeseeable to her. She gave a subtle nudge to Spitfire, the captain, who reacted almost immediately.

• "Well, well, I think someone needs a break" - Spitfire pronounced with an easy smile and with a tone that revealed her classic authoritative tinge. Within seconds she moved from her spot to position herself in the middle of both mares, gently separating them - "How about we go out for a breather Shinning? Soarin will accompany Moonflower to bring you something light to help you be calmer" - The reactions were immediate and brimming with confusion. The two pegasus, Soarin and Moonflower, looked up, their eyes widening in a glare of surprise, exchanged glances and then back to the captain again.

Shinning, in her drunken state, seemed to hesitate for a moment. Spitfire's intervention had cut her outburst short, firmly interrupting her train of thought and leaving her momentarily disoriented.

• "No need" - murmured Moonflower, her voice barely a whisper - "I won't leave Shinning alone, I can handle the situation."

• "No, don't worry, Shinning will be fine with us" - Fleetfoot approached giving Moonflower a meaningful look.

• "Let's go" - Soarin said to Moonflower, his tone more of an invitation than an order, but one that somehow sought to convey that he would not take "no" for an answer.

• "Sure... let's go"- she relented, with a gentle but determined shake, her hooves began to move, leading her to turn towards Soarin, who was giving her an encouraging smile. She turned her gaze for a few minutes and managed to watch as Spitfire placed a hoof on Shinning's shoulder, and guided her firmly towards the exit of the main bar area.

On the way to the bar, Moonflower and Soarin walked together, the murmur of the bar filling the air around them, but neither seemed in a hurry to break the silence. Finally, Moonflower tilted her head slightly towards him, her voice barely a whisper that seemed more to herself than to her companion - "Thank you for stepping in" - she said, not looking away from the path in front of her - "I didn't think something so simple could get out of hand so quickly."

Soarin paused and glanced sideways at her, considering his response carefully - " It's a bar, Moonflower. These things... happen, you know, maybe she just got carried away. I guess these kinds of places aren't usual for you guys, right? " - Moonflower nodded slowly, though her expression indicated she wasn't entirely convinced.

Soarin let out a short but sincere laugh, not mocking - "For everything there is a first time, although believe me and from experience I tell you, you will never be necessarily prepared enough to control someone when they are...well, in that state" - he said, trying to infuse a bit of lightness in the conversation.

Moonflower looked at him out of the corner of her eye, sensing the sincerity in his expression and feeling a strange comfort - "I guess you're right" - she said, letting out a small tired laugh.

When they reached the bar, they noticed that it was crowded, but not so crowded as to be impossible to approach, murmurs of laughter and conversations intertwined around, creating a chaotic melody that filled the space, the bottles of liquor and the glasses behind the bar, gave a golden glow to the faces. Soarin took the initiative, opening a space for both of them at the counter.

• "What would you like to drink?" - The bartender asked, his voice, though loud, cut slightly short by the music vibrating in the atmosphere, while his professional smile lit up his face. It was a gesture that clearly inspired confidence.

• "How about a light cocktail? Maybe something fruity" - Soarin said, turninghis head toward the colorful mare. His eyes, warm and expressive, rested briefly on Moonflower, and the laughter of other patrons seemed to fade the moment he looked at her, from Dash's perspective - "That'll help her calm down" - he added.

Moonflower smiled and nodded with the grace her attire exuded - "Yeah, sounds good" - The bartender watched their interaction with subtle interest, nodding, as if guessing the situation. Soarin ordered a fruity cocktail for .

• "A quick drink wouldn't hurt while we wait, don't you think?" - Moonflower inquired turning to the bartender, who made a mental note and nodded slightly.

Within seconds, the bartender slid two small crystal glasses in front of them, the sparkling liquids reflecting lights that danced merrily around them - "Something local, strong, but nice" - he said with a wink, bringing the glasses closer to them.

Without hesitation, they both raised their glasses, the two glasses clinked slightly and, forcing themselves to put aside any thought that had nothing to do with the liquor, they drank it simultaneously. The liquor, cold and potent, ran down the throats of those present in an instant. A shiver ran through Moonflower's body, but was quickly followed by a warmth spreading throughher chest. A soft, spontaneous laugh escaped her lips, a sound that was lost in the din of the place.

Soarin laughed too, especially at the effect the taste of the liquor had on her, but his eyes remained fixed on her for a second longer than necessary - "See? That wasn't so terrible" - he commented, letting a playful smile curve his lips.

• "It's... quite strong" - replied Moonflower, the smile still present, stretching from her eyes to his - "But I like it" - she added, hinting a spark of her true personality

• "At least it worked to defuse things" - Soarin mentioned with a shrug, watching as the tension in Moonflower's shoulders began to fade.

• "You know?" - Moonflower murmured, leaning a little closer towards him, the warmth of her closeness filling the space between them - "This isn't exactly what I had planned for tonight."

Soarin sketched a smile that was more than just an expression - "Why would you bother planning the night?" - he replied wryly, trying to add a bit of levity to the atmosphere, the space between them diminishing imperceptibly. However, before Moonflower had time to rearrange their possible responses, a sharp touch pulled them out of their bubble

• "Hey, you guys!" - Rapidfire appeared behind them, popped their bubble, tossing his hoofs over both of their shoulders with infectious energy - "What are you guys doing out here all alone, want to join the game for a bit? We've got a good run" - he added, as they turned their gazes towards the bustling group of friends in the distance, they could see how the evening's weather invited them to crawl among them.

• "Apparently, the night is going to extend even further " - muttered the steed, letting out a light laugh that intertwined with the murmur of the music. He rose smoothly and followed Rapidfire, who was advancing with firm steps towards the area where they were staking out

• "Sometimes, the unexpected is what turns out best" - Moonflower whispered, barely audible, more to herself than to him, as she picked up the fruity cocktail they had ordered for Shinning and set off following both steeds. However, he managed to hear her, catching the gist of her comment, but preferred to say nothing and move on, after all, how could he refute something that even he knew to be true.

Author's Note

Finallyyyy, chapter 22. First of all Happy Hearth's Warming to all of u bbys, the best gift this year has given me has been the interaction with all of you and mainly how the development of this story makes me closer despite the time I have for this. I enjoy it very much, and it is a relief for the mind to know that you like this. Soon we will have another story, but it will be later as I organize myself much better, you know, so many things.

Thank you for everything, REALLY and again I wish you the best of Hearth's Warming days today. See you in a few days, I love you all!

https://youtu.be/O2_s_P2bXaM?si=3SuCZttIC9Fx0tE5