"A few sips couldn't hurt."

Rarity was once again encumbered by one princess of Equestria, but things were not as difficult as they had been on the way to the castle. She had managed to pick up Twilight with her magic and place her snugly on her back. As if on instinct, she immediately grabbed Rarity’s neck and nuzzled deeply into the back of it. It was safe to say that they could skip the kitchen and head straight to the bedroom. Rarity laughed to herself, knowing Twilight would have taken that sentence out of context were she not unconscious.

Rarity felt as if the future was looking a little uncertain for her. Obviously being sober, unlike Twilight, she knew what she was doing earlier, and felt a small amount of guilt for it, but she couldn’t help herself. The two already harbored such a strong affection for each other, and Twilight's actions that night only intensified this affection, causing it to transform into something more profound. Rarity couldn't determine if this new feeling was genuine or merely a fleeting emotion that would dissipate by morning. Twilight would wake up and probably forget about all of this, then continue with her daily life.

These thoughts and many more continued to flood the unicorn's mind until she happened upon the door she recognized as the entrance to Twilight’s bedroom. After using her magic to open it, she approached Twilight’s bed, once more using her magic to pull back the comforters, and slowly lowering Twilight onto the mattress before pulling the sheets over her.

Twilight provided slight resistance when Rarity removed her, given how tightly she was holding onto the unicorn's neck. As if noticing that she was no longer touching Rarity, Twilight began to grunt and slowly inched her forearms outward as if trying to grab hold of something but quickly ceased movement, hastily going back to snoring soundly. Once all of that was over with, Rarity sat down in front of the bed and breathed in and out deeply as she stared at the peaceful Twilight.

“Twilight was drunk when she said all of that, right? Some of the things she said sounded so sincere, so genuine, it didn’t sound like she was rambling. Could she have been...? No, certainly not...” she said, shaking her head. “Of course she was still drunk, otherwise she wouldn’t have been so forward. This is Twilight we're talking about. Sure, she’s said a lot of things...” she said before a slight pink tinged her muzzle... “about me in particular, but a sober Twilight would never be that bold with something like a confession. It was clearly the drinking that did this to her, and only the drinking.” she said to convince herself before sighing heavily. “If only I could say that the alcohol was the reason as to why I feel the way I do now.” she finished.

A few choice words from Twilight echoed in her head, particularly the ones about “loving” her, before she groaned groaned in exhaustion.

“I so despise the idea of walking all the way home right now. Surely Twilight wouldn’t mind if I used a guest room.” she said as she began to walk away, but not before giving Twilight one last glance. Once she figured Twilight would be okay, she turned back around and began to walk out the door until...

“...Rarity?”

Rarity felt a small tug, causing her to turn around and notice Twilight’s magic aura gently pulling the edge of her tail, as well as the small pout on her face that caused Rarity to smile sweetly.

“Relax darling, you're in bed now, so you should take this time to get some rest.” Rarity assured her, that response causing Twilight to pout even harder.

“Mmmm after you tell me where you're going."

"I was....just going to stay in your guest room, if that was alright." she chuckled.

"Absolutely not okay." she grumbled, making Rarity lift a hoof to her chest in slight offense.

“Oh, well that’s a bit out of character for you. Then again, you're not exactly thinking strai- oookay I’m floating now I guess.”

With almost no warning, Twilight used her magic to lift Rarity into the bed and under the covers with her, followed by Twilight wrapping her wings around Rarity as she buried her head into Rarity’s neck, which Rarity was no stranger to at this point, but that fact didn’t stop her heart from thumping against her ribcage.

“You're not going anywhere Rarity. *yawn* Not while you're this comfy.” said Twilight as Rarity finally relaxed.

Rarity opened her mouth to object, but soon closed it and gave in to Twilight's demands, exhaling gently. Feeling Rarity relaxed, Twilight hummed contently while caressing Rarity's cheek with hers.

“Well...if this is what you want Twilight, then I’ll oblige. You are my friend after all.” she conceded, rubbing the back of Twilight’s head, causing Twilight to bite down a smile like a smitten school filly. She wasn’t going to even bother using the “deals a deal” excuse anymore. She was keenly aware of the true meaning behind her own actions.

“That’s good Rarity. It's feel's nice to hold someone so soft and squishy. Like a pillow, a very comfortable pillow.” she said, giving Rarity a few good squeezes, causing Rarity to laugh softly.

“Twilight, that tickles darling, also, are you saying I’m overweight?” she asked, while poking Twilight’s stomach softly, making her giggle as well.

“You know what I mean Rarity, I don't like it when you twist my words like that.” she said, going from a giggle to a smile.

“I know, I know sweetheart, I'm just teasing you a bit.” she said, listening to Twilight's content moan in response to Rarity stroking her mane again. There were a few seconds of silence before one of them spoke again.

“Y’know, I meant the part about you staying forever.” Twilight said quietly.

“Yes, I do remember you saying that dear.” she said, followed by Twilight planting a kiss on her neck, which made Rarity stiffen slightly, but did nothing about it. “Then you rambled about how you wouldn’t mind waking up to me every day and so on.” she finished. She wasn’t expecting to have pillow talk with Twilight at Celestia knows whatever time it was, but here they were.

“That’s because I wouldn’t Rarity. You’re just that wonderful and...you'd stay forever if I asked, right?"

Rarity wasn’t ready for a question like that. Well, that was her initial thought anyway.

“Of...of course I would Twilight.” she said with slight uncertainty in her voice. She would date Twilight, right? She wasn't merely living in the moment, and would feel the same way in the morning, correct? Twilight smiled at her response, planting another long kiss into Rarity’s neck, which Rarity was welcoming to at this point.

"I've, wanted to hear that for a long time Rarity. You have no...idea..." Twilight trailed off.

"P-pardon?" Rarity questioned, waiting for a follow up statement to that, but was instead with the soft snoring of a Twilight who was most likely down for the count this time.

How was Rarity supposed to sleep now after hearing something like that? She proceeded to stay awake for the next thirty minutes or so and think about many things she never thought she'd have to think about.

It wasn’t until now that Rarity realized just how false all her previous attractions for others had been, all those other times where she had truly believed that she had found the perfect one. She wasn’t sure if she could truly speak for Twilight, but she knew this about herself without a doubt.

She was hopelessly in love with Twilight.

********

Twilight let out a groan as she squeezed her already shut eyelids the second the sunlight hit them. After a few more seconds, her eyelids finally fluttered halfway open as she blinked a few times, then raised her forearm to rub her eyes as she waited for her vision to clear up. Once it did, she turned her head towards the ceiling as her eyes scanned her surroundings to try and get a sense of where she was. Once she decided that she wasn’t upside down in a trashcan or some other strange location, she let out a sigh of relief.

“Okay, so I made it back to my home at least. I swear, that is the first and last time I let Rainbow Dash of all ponies talk me into drinking something I’ve never had before.” she thought to herself before groaning painfully. “That might be the last time I drink anything honestly. Seriously, what was I thinking? I'm a princess now for crying out loud. I think this headache is a proper punishment for my actions. I mean really, I-” Twilight’s thoughts were interrupted by the feeling of something holding her as she tried to sit up.

“Huh, what the...?” she started. Her vision was still a little blurry, so she couldn’t see that clearly just yet. She slowly made her way up the unknown white and slender object until she laid eyes on-

“Rarity?” she quietly said. Not quite sure what Rarity was doing holding onto her. Although she didn’t wake up, she did stir a bit in her sleep while gripping Twilight a little tighter while mumbling, “No Twilight, I have to…go home you silly girl.” Rarity moaned in her sleep, as the corners of her mouth curved upwards, drawing a slightly puzzled look from Twilight.

“Rarity’s here, holding me, not that I mind I guess but…” Twilight thought to herself, before her face struggled to decide if it wanted to go pale from disbelief, or red from embarrassment from the next thought that entered her head.

“Oh no, if we both were drunk last night, then anything could have happened. I certainly can’t recall a thing.” Twilight said as a blush decorated her cheeks. “We couldn’t have...done *that*, right?”

As Twilight struggled not to go into her signature panic mode, Rarity began to stir even more, causing Twilight to quietly yelp and stiffen her body. To her slight horror, Rarity began to open her eyes as they quickly made their way up to Twilight’s, face, which looked like it had just seen an apparition.

“Oh, morning darling.” she yawned, closing her eyes again. No more than two seconds went by before the unicorn’s eyes shot back open as she quickly sat up and locked eyes with Twilight, who looked just as shocked honestly. She stared at the messy haired alicorn for a few seconds, then a few seconds more, and then a few seconds more, until she felt her heart restart the vigorous dance it performed last night as her cheeks turned a light pink.

“Rarity? You ok?” Twilight asked with a curious head tilt. Rarity was brought back to reality when she heard Twilight speak again, but her heart continued to beat so fast, she thought she was going to have a heart attack. That was when she began to talk as if she werehaving one.

“T-Twilight! You’re awake. M-morning darling, h-how are you this fine day?” she asked, followed by a nervous chuckle. She was so disappointed in herself, for not being able to control her emotions right now, or back when Twilight had kissed her.

“H-hey Rarity, you’re here, in my bed, with me...h-holding me.” she said with a slight blush as Rarity looked down, noticing that she was still latching onto Twilight and quickly removed herself from the perplexed alicorns waist. After slightly confusing Twilight with that action, she distanced herself by scooching away a few inches as another nervous chuckle escaped from her.

“Indeed I am, er, was, ha-ha, would you look at that.” she said, preparing herself for whatever Twilight might say or do to her next. Along with Twilight's messy hair, disheveled coat, and slightly ruffled wings, the morning sun was doing for no favors for Rarity’s increasingly beating heart as it covered Twilight in a ray a sunlight, giving her an almost heavenly appearance.

Rarity wanted nothing more than to once again meet the Twilight she was introduced to last night, but this was the old Twilight, who most likely had no memory of the previous evening’s events, well, if her current expression was anything to go by. With how confused Twilight looked, apparently, she wasn’t looking at Rarity the same way.

Neither knowing what to say, they proceeded to stare at each other until the awkward silence was too much to bear, causing Twilight to break it first.

“Well Rarity, not that I mind being in the same bed as you or anything but, I just have to ask...” Twilight said before her face started to flush slightly, as she looked away. “...did we...y’know...uh...do anything, last night?” she hesitantly asked.

Rarity wasn't sure how to feel about that question exactly. Now that she thought about it, if Twilight did remember everything right now, that would have been an extremely awkward exchange of words. Judging by that question though, Twilight seemed to not have an inkling of what happened. Should she be relieved, or sad?

While Rarity was fighting to solve that enigma, Twilight took the ensuing silence as a sign that that was not a simple question to answer, causing her to believe that they may have done something irreversible.

“Oh no, something bad happened didn't it? Rarity, whatever we did last night, I'm sure it's something we can fix.” she rambled.

“Twilight?” Rarity called out.

“Wait! Let me think!” she said in a panic.

“Twilight, easy dear, it’s okay-“ Rarity got out before Twilight cut her off.

“So we did do something, okay um, well I-I'm sure there’s a reasonable explanation for all of this Rarity. I was sooo not myself last night, and you probably weren’t either, and we might’ve done something that we shouldn’t have. I-It’s not like I wouldn’t want to do something with someone as pretty as you, but, we moved a little fast, and, I’m, not as versed in that level of intimacy as most others might be, so I’m sorry if I was a bad partner and, oh Rarity, I know things might be awkward for a while because of this, but things can return to normal, i-if we give it time of course. Please, I hope this doesn’t ruin our friendship Rarity. I really just want things to go back to normal and....”

Rarity might have wanted to see the lovey dovey side of Twilight again, but seeing her in her normal state, nervously rambling in an attempt to explain something reminded Rarity of the reasons she had always been subconsciously fond of this anxious mess. Now that she was thinking about it, loving Twilight was never exactly out of the realm of possibility, now was it?

“Twilight?” Rarity called out once more, while putting a hoof to Twilight’s shoulder and interrupting her rambling.

“Y-yes Rarity?” Twilight responded, right before Rarity began to giggle. “Rarity, what’s so funny?” she asked nervously as Rarity quieted down until a smile remained.

“Nothing dear, you’re just...so you, you know that?” Rarity said as Twilight responded with an incredulous stare.

“What’s that supposed to mean? And, aren’t you upset, or anything? Didn’t we...” she trailed off before Rarity gave her a small playful push.

“Don’t worry, we didn’t spend the night exploring each other.” she said, putting a hoof to Twilight’s cheek. “You just drank too much of Pinkie’s dastardly concoction, and then I helped you home. I swear, that stuff needs a warning label on it. I wanted to stay with you to ensure you’d be alright. You did drink a lot after all.”

Rarity figured it was best not to say anything. If Twilight had anything to confess, she would let her do it on her own terms and not force it out of her by mentioning last night's strange turn of events. If there was even anything to confess. For all she knew, Twilight was only acting like that because Rarity was the only one there. She may have behaved the same way with anyone else, and that thought made her feel even more embarrassed of her own actions for some reason. Maybe it was for the best that she didn't remember.

“Oh, ok, ok. That’s good, that’s a relief.” Twilight responded.

Okay, that hurt Rarity a little bit. She knows Twilight didn’t mean it in a negative way, like thinking she wasn’t dateable or something, everyone has a type after all, but she couldn’t help but take some sort of offense to it. Deep down though, she knew that Twilight valued their friendships too much to risk ruining it over one-night stands. Wasn't going to stop Rarity from teasing her about it though.

“Twilight, forgive me darling, but I’m sure I heard you say that you wouldn’t mind doing something with someone as pretty as me not too long ago. Are you too good for me now, is that it?” she said with a hoof raised to her chest, then smiled at the flustered reaction it brought forth from her adorable princess.

“N-no Rarity, you know what I mean, Geez, you always manage to twist my words in a way that embarrasses me.” Twilight said as she gave Rarity a stare that seemed to switch from nervous to stern.

“There's no twisting of the words here I'm afraid, you literally just said that you wouldn’t mind being with someone like me, and when you find out nothing happened, you get more relieved than when you find out the store still has ink in stock, and quite frankly, I’m offended.” she said, as she turned the other way with her nose in the air.

“Rarity...” Twilight whined, prompting Rarity to slightly turn her head towards her while opening one eye, then laughing and hugging Twilight.

“Oh lighten up darling, you know I absolutely adore teasing you.” Rarity grinned.

“You’re cruel Rarity, you know that?”

“I know dear, I’m just such a troublemaker, I could give Rainbow a run for her money I bet.”

“Yeah, you could.” Twilight flatly said, earning a scoff from the offended mare.

“Oh don’t be like that Twilight, they call me a stick in the mud, but you can be just as uptight sometimes.” said Rarity.

“I am not-....well, that uptight.” Twilight responded while turning away sheepishly as Rarity laughed while holding her cheek with one hoof.

“Oh Twilight, your adorableness never ceases to amaze me. You'll be ninety years old and still be the cutest thing on the planet." Rarity said, rubbing Twilight's cheek, then rubbing it some more, then rubbing it a little longer, and then-

“Um...Rarity?”

Rarity realized the action was going on for too long and pulled back her hoof with a nervous chuckle.

*Ahem* “Well, you seem to be okay from what I can see, but how are you feeling dear? You alright?” questioned Rarity, but Twilight responded with a groan first.

“Well, my head feels like it was run over by a herd of buffalo, but things could be much worse all things considered, so I guess I’m alright. At least *chuckle* nothing was destroyed. Magic users have a history of getting a little carefree with their magic when intoxicated.” she chuckled, then slowly stopped when she saw an uneasy look on Rarity’s face as the unicorn looked to the side.

“Rarity...what did I do last night?” Twilight asked with a slight look of fear.

“Oh, well...don’t freak out buuuut...” she started, but Twilight’s pupils were already the size of pinpricks.

“Oh nooo...” she said while putting her head in her hoofs, “...I knew I was going to regret asking that. Who did I hurt?” she asked as Rarity grabbed her shoulders.

“No no dear, no one got hurt, and you didn’t cause mass destruction or anything. You just.... might’ve pulled a giant piece of crystal out of your castle wall...” she said with a slight wince. No point in lying to her about it, she’d see it anyway, soon enough.

“I what?! Uuuuuugh, I’m never getting drunk again.” she said, slamming her back down on the pillow. That was a tamer reaction than what Rarity was expecting. Maybe the headache kept her freaking out as much as she wanted to.

“Don’t worry Twilight darling, it’s not that bad. You know little problems like that are nothing for us to fix, it's not that big a deal.

"That's not the point Rarity. I could've really hurt someone."

"Yes, I suppose that's correct...but no one was hurt, darling. For the most part, your castle is fine, your giant energy beams didn't hit anyone-

"My what?!" Twilight yelled while sitting up.

“N-nothing dear, we’ll talk about that later.” Rarity hurriedly told her, not realizing what she said until she witnessed Twilight freak out for a second. Twilight winced from the throbbing in her head from that sudden bout of yelling as Rarity put a hoof to her chest to ease her back down.

“Easy Twilight, just lay down for a second. I’ll fetch you some painkillers and some water. Left cabinet in your bathroom, right?” she asked, getting a nod “yes” from Twilight, and swiftly getting out of bed and trotting towards Twilight’s bathroom.

“Actually, wait a second. I can just use a spell and...” Twilight said as her horn began to glow, but the sudden sharp pain in her head from trying to cast the spell quickly made her rethink her course of action, as the glow quickly faded while she groaned in pain. In all honesty if she desperately needed or wanted to, she could force herself through the pain to do whatever spell was necessary, but it just didn’t feel worth the trouble and misery right now. She knew what day it was, so it’s not like she had anywhere to be at the moment.

“Now it's time for me to teach you something Twilight." Rarity said while rummaging through Twilight's medicine cabinet Attempting to you use magic with a massive headache from a hangover is generally considered a bad idea. Actually, I thought you would've known that fact already.”

"I mean, I do, but I normally power through anything to cast a spell. Guess I've never had a headache this painful before."

"Well, it wasn't unexpected darling. If I drank 7 bottles of that stuff that Pinkie claims won't damage your internal organs from just one glass, then I'd be in just as much pain. Actually, I think I'd be dead." she added with a small laugh.

“Seven?!” Twilight yelled while sitting up, immediately gripping the sides of her head in pain again as Rarity sighed to herself. “That’s stuff’s akin to chemical waste.”

“Twilight, for your own well-being, I suggest you stop yelling like that, lest you make your headache worse.” said Rarity, finally finding the bottle she was looking for. She was thankful that Twilight actually had many different types of medicine in her cabinet, as well as having it so organized. She made a mental note to organize her own medicine cabinet when she got home.

She exited the bathroom after securing the painkillers and glass of water to Twilight groaning and looking at Rarity in disbelief.

“There's no way, surely you're exaggerating?” she managed to get out despite her head not ceasing it's current bout of throbbing.

“I’m afraid I’m not dear, but let’s see to that headache before you stress over anything else.” said Rarity, before giving Twilight the glass and two pills.

Picking up a glass and two pills wasn’t that difficult task even while hungover, so Twilight popped the pills, then slowly taking a sip or two of water and swallowed, then set the glass down on her nightstand as Rarity got back on the bed to sit beside Twilight.

“Thank you, Rarity.” she said, as Rarity smiled in response. “I only remember taking a few sips of that stuff. Guess I really went off the deep end.” she said, bashfully rubbing the back of her head.

"Well, that's what happens when you drink the alcohol equivalent of bathroom cleaning chemicals.” said Rarity.

“Yeah, that stuff needs a warning label.” replied Twilight.

“I know right? That’s what I said.” said Rarity as they both shared a small laugh, before quieting down and staring at Twilight for a second.

“You constantly lecture us on the dangers of drinking, then you throw all of that out the window and get wasted on a level that I could only dream of. It’s not just the sudden drinking either. It’s also your behavior before last night’s events.”

Twilight’s ears perked up at the sudden topic change. “What do you mean?” asked Twilight. Rarity had somewhat gotten an answer last night but wanted to see what a sober and rationally thinking Twilight would say.

“Don’t play innocent Twilight, you know. The sudden reclusiveness, the way you’d blow off our invitations for get togethers, how you've been skipping meals and coming home late."

"Wait, how did you know about that last part?" she asked, determined to get an answer before letting Rarity continue with her little list.

"Dear, when you do all of that with little to no explanation to someone who lives with you, why wouldn't Spike come to us for help."

"Oh...It was that bad huh?" she mumbled, blushing in embarrassment, darting her eyes downward.

"Then you suddenly go on this, this bender from Tartarus, darling why would you think we wouldn't notice the sudden change in behavior?” said Rarity, giving her a worried look.

There was nothing Twilight could say to prove her wrong, and she dared not try to lie. Rarity would see through it in a heartbeat. Oh, the struggles of having such a good friend like Rarity. Said unicorn took Twilight’s chin in her hoof and brought it back to meet her gaze.

“Is everything alright dear? I’m worried about you, we all are. As much as Rainbow Dash encouraged your rampage, even she began to question some of your actions near the end.”

“My…rampage?” Twilight asked fearfully.

“Let's not get off topic darling." she said, quick to divert to something else. Twilight clearly had enough things to worry about already. "Now tell me. What’s been going on with you, sweetheart?”

Twilight looked away for a second before looking back at her and sighing deeply.

“Rarity...I don’t take for granted anything that I have right now. My friends, my life, all the good things that I have going for me, and I hope you know that, but...” Twilight trailed off.

“But what darling?” Rarity asked.

"You know what's it's like to be easily stressed out, given how perfect everything you design has to be, otherwise your customers may get upset."

“Of course. Did it get to be too much for you?” Rarity replied.

"Well, it's a bit more complicated than that."

"Okay, I'm listening."

“I...don’t know when it happened exactly, but one day, I just began to think about everything that had to do with me, everything that was going on around me, and...I...it just- ugh! Sorry, I know that doesn’t make much sense, but I'm not sure how to put it into words.” she said, pausing for a second as Rarity took this to rub her back to hopefully ease her mind, if even just a little.

“It’s okay dear, I’m listening. Just explain the best you can.” she said, as Twilight looked at her and nodded slowly.

“Like, um, how do I put it...” she said, mulling it over a bit, before looking back at Rarity.

“There’s just so much going on, you know? The school, my princess duties, as well as everything else. I’m in charge of so much, and so many things are riding on me, on us. Lately, so many thoughts have just been flooding my mind, like, what would happen if we, you know, messed up, among other things. Out of nowhere, I just felt this immense pressure. It felt like, I don't know, something akin to a sudden existential crisis, and, and then...” Twilight seemed to get lost for a second until Rarity spoke.

“Yes Twilight?” she said, bringing Twilight back to reality, as the alicorn gave her a soft smile in return before frowning again.

“I...couldn't stop thinking about past events. I started to think of all the times the world almost ended, the decisions that decided if everyone was going to live, or die, or live in misery. Then another thought followed.” she said, pausing again.

“Yes darling? Talk to me.” Rarity asked, while scooting a bit closer to Twilight. Twilight seemed to break from her trance and continued speaking.

“It’s not going to be last time things like that happen Rarity, and that thought alone began to keep me up at night. I just kept thinking, what if it doesn’t work out next time? I knew I was worrying Spike and everyone, but I didn’t, really know how to talk about it to anyone. I’ve had these thoughts before, but they’ve never been this intense, let alone for this long. I don’t know what’s coming next, the next danger or threat, and i-it terrifies me.” Twilight finished, her eyes suddenly panic stricken as her breathing increased in speed.

Rarity picked up on this and grabbed both of Twilight’s hooves to soothe her. In response to this, Twilight's breathing resumed its usual cadence before she took a small inhale, and a deep exhale.

“Some of our decisions can have lasting consequences. There's so many little things that may not seem that big a deal, but they are. I mean, a war between nations was most likely on the horizon not too long ago, all because a few students went missing. I don’t know why I started thinking negatively like this all of a sudden, but once it started, I couldn’t stop.” she said, seemingly finished.

Twilight did in fact have a lot going on in her life, so Rarity was not too surprised Twilight was in this predicament, but she didn’t think it would be this bad. She may have ascended, but deep down, she was still Twilight Sparkle. If there was anyone prone to overthinking anything, it was Twilight, and the last thing most overthinkers needed was more stuff to think about. She knows Twilight loves what she does, but she was prone to trapping herself in these cycles of worrying, and she guessed that Twilight thought the only way out of it this time was through getting so wasted that she'd forget the last five years of her life.

She grabbed Twilight’s face to look at her, almost getting lost in her eyes. Tired and bloodshot or not, they were still that spectacular purple.

“Twilight, darling, you’ve been through so much. There were so many terrifying moments where you weren’t sure what was going to happen, heck, we weren’t even sure sometimes. You’ve been through things that would have broken many others mentally. Even I have had the occasional nightmare or two due to events from some of our previous endeavors, so it’s hard to imagine you not feeling some sort of lasting effect as well.”

“Oh...Rarity, I’m so sorry. I should've done more than just asking if you were okay. I’m so selfish.”

“Stop that Twilight, I’m not worried about me, I’ll be fine. If it were that bad, I would have gotten help with it. My spirit isn't weak enough to let a few miscreants throw me off my game." she finished, that remark getting a small smile out of Twilight. "Besides, my focus is on you at the moment.” Rarity replied, as Twilight’s ears drooped down before speaking again.

“I’m sorry for what I did last night, whatever I did. I just wanted to not think for a little while, y’know? Not worry about this and that. I just wanted to be, Twilight the unicorn again, and not Princess Twilight Sparkle, “leader of a nation” and “defender of all that is good”. I initially thought getting away from work and home was the answer, but when the lights and music weren’t enough, well, I went with option number two, with a little push from...you know who.” Twilight solemnly uttered. Rarity donned the same look for a second or two, before smiling as a few choice words made their way out of her mouth.

“Weeell...you were a little more than Twilight the unicorn last night my dear. You were Twilight the drunk, Twilight the brute, Twilight the flirt, Twilight the brawler-”

“Brawler? You said I didn’t hurt anyone!” said Twilight.

“Well, not for lack of trying darling, but...at least Rainbow found your actions quite humorous.”

“Rarity, you’re not helping me feel better.” Twilight said as Rarity chuckled a little.

“I know dear, I’m sorry.” she said before letting one more small laugh escape, then pulling Twilight into a deep hug, then pulling back, but not taking her hooves off of her.

“Now Twilight, listen to me. I know at times, your duties may feel like a burden, and on some level, they may very well be, but know this sweetheart, you are never carrying this burden alone. We all knew what we were getting into when we chose to travel this road alongside you, and you do too. Otherwise, you wouldn’t have agreed to do the things you’ve done. You have your friends, so this isn’t a solo journey but...” Rarity asked.

Rarity used her hoof to rub Twilight’s cheek before continuing.

"...you know that already dear, so why would you not come to somebody about this? The other princesses have been in your position before I’m sure, so why not at least go to one of them?”

“I...don’t know. It’s kind of like I said before, I just didn’t know how to really bring it up to anyone. I’ve asked for advice from the princesses before, but...I just didn’t this time. Maybe part of me feels like this is a lesson in itself. Learning to deal with the stress and work through things so that I may be a better leader. I mean, Celestia had been the ruler of Equestria for so long without Luna. Over a thousand years Rarity. There's no telling what hardships she's had to go through that we don't know about. Yeah sure, she had ponies that could handle things should she need to go away for a while or something, but she’s told me stories about how bad things had sometimes gotten while she was away, whether it be with other nations, or with Equestria itself, so she could never truly just stop what she was doing. I should be able to power through anything just like she did, regardless of how I feel...well, for the others at least.”

As Twilight finished, Rarity took her hoof back and put it to her chin as she looked off to the side in thought, before looking back at the somewhat distraught Twilight.

“Well...what makes you think she was all on her own, Twilight? Sure, her sister was absent and she had to lead the country by herself somewhat, but I’m sure she had a close friend or two to confide in back in her day.”

“That’s somewhat true I guess, but... Celestia isn’t exactly...y’know, like normal ponies Rarity. They...they’ve all had to leave her at some point, if you know what I mean. I can’t imagine how that must’ve been for her, but she persevered for so long regardless. If she believes in me so much, and really thinks I can be a great ruler, then that means I can just-”

“What? Push through while bottling up all of your emotions, no matter how much you hurt inside?” Rarity cut her off.

“I...well, yes, in a way, I guess?” Twilight answered unsurely, causing Rarity to sigh.

“I know that sounds ridiculous, but don’t you think I need to be able to get through anything without letting my emotions get the best of me? I need to be able to keep a leadership attitude, no matter what I may be going through.” Twilight asked.

“I “think” you should stop stressing yourself out to the point where you think you can drink yourself out of every situation. Believe me darling, that doesn't work. Also, I'm going to pretend you didn't just say that on account of how ridiculous it sounded." she finished flatly.

“Well...ugh, I don’t know any more I guess, and this pain medication isn't working fast enough.” she said, rubbing her temple in response to a sudden throb. Rarity stared at Twilight while her next words formed in her head. How would she go about easing her friend’s troubles she wondered. She thought about what Twilight said and found some truth in it, but she still had a point to make against it.

“I understand what you mean Twilight, I do darling, but...” she said, looking over at Twilight, and when she noticed the expression on her face, used a hoof to bring her face to hers again.

“We’re here right now, that’s all that matters. Focus on the now, and how great things are in this moment. Don’t trap yourself in the future, because life is going to find some way to surprise you, no matter how well you plan and prep. There's nothing wrong with thinking about the future every now and then, and it's great to have backup plans and such, but don’t torture yourself by constantly wondering "what if", especially if you don't even know what that "what if" is going to be."

Twilight stared intensely at Rarity as if this was a lecture, and her final grade depended on her remembering every word Rarity said.

“It’s a good thing to be able to power through any problem, I can’t really argue against that, but there’s been plenty of instances already where your will to keep going, no matter the circumstances, has been laid bare for all to see. You have nothing to prove to yourself, or anyone else for that matter. We’ll always be here when you need us darling, so put aside this silly notion that your feelings don’t matter, okay?” Rarity finished. Twilight put her hoof on top of Rarity’s while continuing to look at her, making the unicorn blush slightly.

As Rarity finished, Twilight paused for a second as her eyes widened slightly as a question popped into her head. All the things they’ve been through, and now she genuinely wondered how her friends dealt with things.

“What keeps you going Rarity?”

Rarity was caught a little off guard by that question. “What keeps me going?” she asked. “What do you mean?”

“We’re... always facing these world ending threats, and once we’re past those, you still have so much going on. Your businesses, your personal life, your school duties, even though I pushed that onto you too, geez... another selfish decision of mine.” She said before shaking her head.

“Twilight, we’ve talked about the school thing already, it’s fine. I love it, and you know that.”

“Yeah, you’re right, sorry. I’m just in a state right now, I guess.”

“It’s okay darling.” Rarity told her as Twilight continued.

“Anyways, those things must take up almost any free time you have. You even mentioned how you yourself have had nightmares, so they must have had some sort of lasting effect on your psyche, but you push through, so fearlessly. So, what keeps you going?”

Was it strange for Twilight to ask her this? This was something she often thought about asking Twilight, but here she was being asked instead. Rarity paused for a few seconds as she tried to think of a response. Even Rarity hadn’t really given a ton of thought as to why she continued to persevere as Twilight put it, she just did it, so she couldn’t exactly respond immediately. She was sort of put on the spot just now, but she was good with surprise questions. At least good enough to not take an eternity to answer back in most cases.

“Well, I’d like to think it’s similar to the reason you keep going. Honestly, I should be asking you that question.”

“Similar?”

“Of course, dear. Now, I’m not trying to disregard my previous statements about your feelings or anything, honest, but you realize that there’s more than just you to worry about. You’re a light that shines bright enough to keep the darkness at bay for the sake of others, and you know of it. You care deeply for others and their well-being, and for your home, and you’ll do anything to defend it all. You won’t let the horrific terrors of this world shake you from your destined path, and that my dear, takes determination and willpower that continues to inspire others every time you put it out on display. That’s what keeps you going. The need “and” want to do what’s right. Not just for yourself, but for others as well.”

Twilight began to smile at this statement as Rarity continued.

“As for my businesses, well, of course things get hard. Dealing with difficult clients, meeting deadlines, making sure I have the next line of clothing ready and staying ahead of the competition, but never in a million years will I lose my passion for dress-making and putting it all out there for everyone to see darling, so I’m going to pursue that for the rest of my life, even if I lose all my limbs and my magic. I’ll stitch with my mouth if I must." she said as Twilight chuckled, causing Rarity to bite down a smile.

“Yeah, I wouldn’t doubt that I guess.” Twilight said, but Rarity continued, adding her signature dramatic flair to her words.

“Should I slowly go insane and lose my mind, at least give me a sowing machine when you throw me in the padded cell. I’ll call that line of clothing, “Please get me out of this cell, I promise I won’t attack Blue Blood a third time!” Rarity added, making Twilight laugh heartily.

“Okay, okay I get it Rarity.” she said as her laugh died down. “Geez, that guys always going to live rent free in your head isn’t he?” she said, as Rarity gave her a playful and dismissive wave.

“I’m afraid so. You spend so long looking up to someone and they end up being somewhat of a fraud, it can’t be helped for some ponies.” She finished, as Twilight gave her a reassuring smile before listening to Rarity continue on.

“I don’t mean to make light of your situation dear, not in the slightest, but it’s okay to feel like this occasionally. We all have moments where it all gets to be a bit too much, as you’ve said yourself, but darling, it’s important to not let your problems and concerns sit in your head and fester for too long. That’s not good for anyone, and you know that, right?”

“I do. I, guess I just needed a reminder. Thank you, Rarity.” Twilight said, as Rarity nodded in response, before donning a smirk. Twilight continued smiling as well, before turning away almost ashamedly.

“I’m such a sad sack, aren’t I? I'm feeling a little embarrassed now honestly.” she said while rubbing the back of her head as Rarity laughed softly.

“Don’t be Twilight, it’s alright dear, I promise. I’ve always loved it when you were vulnerable enough around me to tell me anything. I’ve always have, and I always will.” she finished, giving Twilight a stare that an infatuated schoolgirl gives their crush. Twilight didn’t so much mind being stared at this time, if her growing blush was anything to go by, but Rarity was the one to break it up this time. She blinked a few times to break herself out her trance before looking at her again and smirking.

“Now, notice how I said my reasons for carrying on in life are similar to yours, but not exactly the same. I do it for some of those reasons, yes, but also because I want the whole world to witness me in all my glory!” she said, waving her forearm around as if to show off for an adoring crowd as Twilight playfully rolled her eyes.

“I want to show them that one can save the world, and look fabulous while doing it. How many ponies can wear mascara and lipstick, all while taking down a villain of the week and not smearing any of it? I am a lady after all, and I can remain one in almost any circumstance.” Rarity finished.

Twilight stifled a laugh upon hearing this.

“Oh, is that humorous to you in some way Twilight? Care to share what's so funny with the rest of the class?”

“Well, I remember a time when a certain “prince” drove the lady right out of you.” she said while smirking, causing Rarity to scoff while smirking back at her in return.

“Oh please, that pony could drive the lady out of anyone. Even I have a limit darling, which he quickly drove me past. He almost makes Chrysalis seem like a preferable companion. Also, that was a long time ago, how dare you pull that card out.” she said, giving Twilight a playful push.

“Hey, I’ve heard he’s gotten a little less, eh, insufferable.” said Twilight, earning another scoff from her.

“That may be so, but he’s got a long way to go to change my perspective of him.”

“Wow, remind me to never make you mad on the level that he did.”

“Oh Twilight, as snobby as you claimed you used to be, I could hardly imagine you being as rude as he was, at any point in your life. Besides, you’re nearly impossible to stay mad at for long. That’s just how forgivable and “adorable” you are.” said Rarity as she grabbed Twilights cheeks and gave a slight squeeze, causing the alicorn to laugh while putting Rarity’s hooves down.

“Well thanks for that...and, you’re right, I have you girls to talk to. I should have just come to one of you, or the princesses, or someone, instead of just bottling it all up. I let the pressure and stress build up and, it led to me making a bad decision.” Twilight finished, looking back at Rarity with a soft smile, which made Rarity give one back.

“Twilight dear, it’s okay to have a little fun, just, eh, I don’t know, let’s save that kind of drinking for smaller parties, like when it’s just us and the other girls.” Rarity finished with a wink.

“Yeah,” said Twilight as she winced once more from her headache. “Actually, that might be the last time I ever do something like that honestly.” she said while rubbing her temples as Rarity giggled softly.

“Yes, well, that would be good too. I mean, heh, I’m just glad you kissed me and not a million other ponies. Celestia knows that most ponies would run around telling the whole wide world that they kissed a princess, and the last thing we need is for the world thinking that you’re some kind of harlot.” she said that last part with a laugh.....but Twilight was not laughing, or smiling anymore for that matter.

"Twilight, what's the matter darling?” she asked with a quizzical brow, taking into account Twilight's puzzled stare.

“We...kissed?” she asked.