[Canterlot] Throwback

[Dio]

Councilor-Princess Mi Amore Cadenza

Office of Canterlot Royal Public Relations

Suite 52, Palace Complex

107 Equestrian Way

Canterlot

Hey honey,

Happy Friday! It's been a long week and I figure both of us could use a break. There's a little jazz club I know from my ROTC days in downtown C-lot that offers cheap drinks and good music. I figure it would be a good place to unwind and catch up after the craziness of the past month. Call some time off and bring your dancing horseshoes. I promise it'll be a good time! I'll see you soon, sweetheart.

Love, your Shining Armor

Guard Captain Shining Armor

Barracks of the Royal Equestrian Army

Official's Suite, Palace Headquarters

152 Trottenheim Boulevard

Canterlot

Hi love!

The same to you! You know I love jazz, and I always love your old hangouts. Things here at the CRPR have been hectic lately, but I bet they still pale in comparison to my strong Captain of the Guard's duties. I know we haven't had much time at night this week, and I can't wait to steal you away from your manly stallions. Be safe during all those training sessions!

My heart to you,

Cadance

Ponyland was a paradoxical mixture of hole-in-the-wall charm and big-name popularity. Whispers of the place swam through the Canterlot streets like hippocamps would through the Okeanos atriums and underground newspapers and magazines showered it with endless accolades. At the same time, hardly any press circulated in the upper echelons of Canterlot society. It seemed the owners of the establishment welcomed the word of mouth marketing model, even preferring it to the kind of coverage that the big name papers could give it. Some even called it Downtown C-lot’s “best kept secret.”

Military patrons were common at Ponyland, as it was garrison tradition to visit the establishment on weekends. That wasn’t to say that the establishment was exclusively military. Civilians of all shapes, sizes, and social strata also frequented Ponyland. At the bar or on the dance floor, all could enjoy quality drinks and music that could be heard in few other places in Equestria.

Shining Armor smiled as he stepped through the door, taking in the faint scents of hardwood floors, strong cider, and pipe smoke. This was it. He was home. Even after all these years, Ponyland had retained its charm, capturing the spirit of a bygone era, one that delicately balanced style and class without sacrificing either.

The captain was careful to match his dress to the aesthetic of the establishment. After his promotion he’d decided that work would stay at work, so Class-A was out of the question. But to show up wearing nothing at all simply wouldn’t do. A tailored suit jacket, a proper tie of solid black, and a collar pressed and worn with all the precision of an REA officer was the order of the evening. The only hint of military was the lapel pin, the REA emblem of a rearing alicorn in silhouette.

The stage was set. The lights were dim. The drinks were flowing. The music filled the air. Before them was the whole of Luna’s night.

“Just the way I remember it...” the dashing captain said with a smile, extending a hoof to his lovely wife. "Shall we?"

[Solaria]

Cadance glanced about in wonder as she gazed into the musical twilight of Ponyland. She had never visited such a place, let alone one with this particular club's reputation. It was hardly surprising, what with her rather distinct lack of free time from the CR Public Relations and her attempts to be with her husband whenever their stations allowed, not to mention the fact that most ponies that frequented the castle wouldn't be interested in a more... underground locale.

The princess was actually somewhat surprised that Shining Armor himself knew about Ponyland, what with his demeanor and focus on his work, but then again she supposed even captains of the guard had to unwind sometimes. When one of her escorts had heard of Cadance's dinner plans she'd blanched and tried to explain that it wasn't quite the place for a lady, to which the pink mare had politely disagreed. A little Canterlot culture could never hurt, and she'd been informed that jazz was played quite frequently there. How could she resist?

"Let's," Cadance replied with a smile, taking the offered hoof before being led into the establishment.

The royal had carefully chosen her attire for the evening, finally deciding upon dressy with a casual flair. Her front legs were adorned with detached sleeves of deep plum, which flowed gracefully about her hooves and were strapped firmly near her shoulders. A straight and simple, yet elegant, dress of the same rich hue rested somewhat lower on her flanks, trailing a small distance above her rear hoofguards and accenting every small movement with a delightful display of fluid motion. Rather than adorning herself with her usual crown, she had replaced it with a small metallic band inlaid with a dark ruby, which served the secondary purpose of keeping her hair in its gathered mare's tail behind her head. Palace ponies would have stared. Here she felt she fit in rather well.

Excitement was plain on Cadance's face, and she couldn't wait to be shown the delights of Ponyland.

"You have wonderful taste," she whispered only loud enough for Shining Armor to hear.

[Dio]

"Didn't you know that good taste was standard issue for the REA officer corps?" Shining Armor smirked as he led her forward. “Speaking of taste, I could use something to drink!”

The bar was situated at the rear of the club, out of the way of both the dancefloor and the circular hardwood tables and wall booths where patrons wishing for more private conversation seated themselves. From the swing-door cordoned rear entrance came the crackling of cookfires and the clanging of pots and pans; indeed food was served here as well. Fairie lanterns adorned the walls over the booths, bathing the wall-side tables in subtle aetheric ambience. The floor tables were similarly lit, a short rod holding a single faerie lantern standing upright on each table, giving the appearance of a floating orb of golden light suspended above each one.

The subtle sensations of the nightlife wafted through the air around them. Idle chatter from bar patrons, the occasional wave of a hoof or nod of a muzzle in recognition, smatterings of laughter and the subtle clinks of drink glasses on hardwood tables, the muffle clops of hooves on the dancefloor-- all formed a subtle backdrop for the

. Shining Armor couldn’t help but find himself stepping in time with the beat as he and Cadence ambled along.

Finally, they arrived at the bar, a middling-sized hardwood affair stained a rich wine color and polished to perfection. Like most pony establishments, the counter boasted a low profile and gentle lip, with cushions at ground level that allowed ponies to comfortably lay down and rest their hooves while they enjoyed a drink. The shelves were stocked with myriad liquors from as far away as Aquellia and Stalliongrad, though most were spirits from Canterlot and Garden Gait-- in fact, an entire section of shelving was devoted to the Garden Gait Winery’s selection. Taps with various kegs occupied the next segment over, housing a small but respectable selection of local brews. Finally, off in the corner was a section of syrups, ice boxes with sliced fruits, and a small soda water maker for those who preferred their drinks with less punch.

A pink unicorn mare zipped back and forth behind the bar, her teal and lime mane flowing in long tendrils behind her as she worked, tending to patrons, passing off drinks to waiters, and making smalltalk to those who chose to make the bar cushions their spot for the night. Shining Armor settled into his cushion, motioning for Cadence to take a seat next to him.

“Drinks are on me tonight, honey! Bartender, I’d like something simple to start-- a Hoofington Pale Ale, please. As for the lady...” he knickered happily as he spoke, “...well, I think it might be best if she told you herself!”

[[ You're up next, Solaria. But after that, stand by because I'm bringing in a pro bartender! ]]

[Solaria]

A smile adorned Cadance's lips as she listened to the music flow around her and her husband, enveloping them in a warm sphere of mellow sound that constantly rippled and changed. The intangible aura spread from the pair to occasionally include those around them, with Shining Armor receiving quite a few more calls and acknowledgements. Setting her bottom lip into a playfully frustrated line, she leaned in as they walked.

"Well I bet I would get more nods and waves out in Stalliongrad," the princess teased, nudging her shoulder against her escort as they wound their way to the back of the club.

In that area the culture and feel of Ponyland truly came alive, with the patrons mingling and chattering rather than swaying and moving mutely to the beat on the dance floor. The fairie lanterns provided a truly surreal and gloomy feel to the place, which intrigued Cadance even more. What secrets could this underground favorite hold in its dusky depths? The thrill of those thoughts and simply being among such ponies sent a tingle down the alicorn's spine.

At Shining Armor's gesture the rose mare seated herself on the cushion adjacent, her posture fairly straight but much more relaxed than it would be at the castle or during her duties. It was quite the relief. While her love glanced over the bar's selection and spoke with the energetic barista flitting back and forth, Cadance swished her multi-toned tail from side to side like a cat eying a bell on a string. Her unicorn partner may have favored ales and the like, but there was nothing like a fine wine... and the selection they offered was amazing!

"If you have a Stalliongrad Starberry Merlot anywhere, I would love a glass!" she called out to the barsmare, holding a hoof in the air as the speedy pony dashed by again. The princess turned to her husband as she waited. "So I can't help but wonder dear," she murmured, nuzzling him and whispering into his ear with barely contained laughter. "Will those marching hooves hold up quite as well on the dance floor tonight? I'm not sure if military training directly translates to that kind of rhythm!"

The atmosphere was definitely taking its effect on Cadance, and she slid closer to rest her head on Shining Armor's neck and shoulder, practically beaming with delight.

[brianblackberry]

Martini Paradise was in the zone - the place was very busy tonight with patrons of all types. Admittedly, Ponyland wasn't her place - she had never even heard of the club until a week ago. She'd only worked in Canterlot once before - but that one time had been a rare opportunity at the Grand Galloping Gala, a job which opened whole new doors of opportunity for the itinerant unicorn. Now she'd also worked for a high-class fashion show, and had gotten connections with the Wonderbolts as well as solidifying her connection with the handsome, generous, and fantastically wealthy Maximillian Rockefilly. And thus, she'd managed to score a temporary gig here in this little stylish club, and she was going to make the most of it.

As she was setting a couple meads down before a pair of working class types, Martini noticed a waving pink hoof out of the corner of her eye. It was a busy night, but she made sure to take a few extra seconds to give the two stallions a warm, inviting smile and a sincere hope that they were enjoying themselves, before turning to the customer trying to get her attention. It didn't matter how busy the place was - that personal touch was part of her job, just as much as serving drinks.

She stopped, though, her professional cheerfulness freezing on her face to try to hide her shock and amazement - her next customer was royalty. Not just some lord or count, but Princess Cadance, her hoof up for attention like any other pony. Martini only ever seen her in pictures before, especially with the recent wedding, but none of the photos had done her proper justice. Oh, moon and stars above! Should I bow? Am I supposed to bow?? No, I should curtsey! How do you curtsey? No - she shook the thought from her head, as her normal sensibility reasserted itself. This was a place for ponies to relax and be themselves, to put behind the concerns of life for an evening. A princess, was no different. Martini worked to make every customer feel special - Martini sighed to herself inside, she was a professional, and a princess was a customer like any other, deserving of the same friendly, informal service and flair.

Martini trotted up and smiled brightly, looking Princess Cadence in the eye. "Good evening! What can I do for you?" she asked brightly. While her specialty was mixed drinks, she was always reverent when dealing with rare and exotic brews - and the wine the princess had asked for was one she certainly found impressive. Fortunately, this place had a quite impressive cellar. "I believe I have just the thing!" she said cheerfully, barely holding back the "your majesty." Martini stepped away and down into the cellar, hunting through the bottles. She knew which vintage she wanted - not that she'd had occasion to try it herself, but she'd had a regular noble once who'd give anyone who'd stand still for more than five second a lecture on wines. And the cellar came through. She floated the bottle from its place on the rack and trotted up the stairs with the bottle floating alongside.

With her magic, she pulled the cork free and offered it politely to the pink alicorn in the traditional manner, so she could smell it. "An eight-year Starberry Merlot. Not as aged as some prefer it, but a most excellent year with a wonderfully light and refreshing flavor." She hoped it would meet the princess' approval!

[Dio]

Shining Armor scowled in mock consternation at his wife’s playful banter. Doubt his prowess on the dance floor? Inconceivable! Years of coming here after hours, hanging out with his ROTC class, and practically owning the officers’ table since he was just a butterbars? Years of cutting a rug when the big band rocked the house? Fillies lined up to see the ridiculously photogenic stallion? Well, the latter not so much anymore, especially since his-- ahem-- very high-profile wedding.

But in every case, this was still his house!

“Honey,” he said, “Ponyland is my house and stuff like

is my jam! What makes you think I’m going to drag stuffy old military marching hooves along with me to the dance floor?”

The captain smiled as Cadence gently nuzzled him, gently tapping her horn with his own in return. The night was theirs. The rapid clip clop of hooves on stone was a sudden, but welcome interruption; drinks had arrived!

"An eight-year Starberry Merlot,” the barmare quipped as she displayed her vintage. “Not as aged as some prefer it, but a most excellent year with a wonderfully light and refreshing flavor."

“Well, I certainly hope her majesty finds it satisfactory!” Shining Armor teased.

[Solaria]

Cadence smiled at the small clack her horn made upon contact with her husband's, her eyes discreetly searching his for a moment. It seemed he wasn't quite there despite their bodily contact, his mind was apparently back in some military party or another. It happened from time to time, and always brought a small bit of amusement to her. She was glad that the guard pony had happy memories of his earlier days in the service. The return of the barmare brought both of them back to reality, and the princess grinned eagerly at the selection that had been extracted from the cellar.

Cadence inhaled fully when Martini knowledgeably offered a whiff of the wine, her muzzle wrinkling ever so slightly as the delightful aroma tickled her nose. If it tasted anything like it smelled, it would be heavenly.

"Oh I wouldn't know, you'll need to show me," the alicorn taunted Shining Armor. "Talking and dancing are two very different things, but you knew that."

With a flank bump at her companion's quip she returned her attention to the barmare, smiling brightly as the drink was poured. She didn't wait long to sample it, levitating the glass to her lips and taking a small sip. It was like fragrant flowers and berries exploded in bursts of flavor on her tongue, in a manner that reminded the mare why the starberries had earned their name. It was a transcendent taste! A few moments passed before Cadence realized her dreamy and distanced look might confuse the others and she shook her head slightly, resting the glass on the counter.

"You really know your wines!" she exclaimed. "I don't know many ponies who can pick out a good vintage for the rarer mixes. I'm Cadence, may I ask the name of our talented server?"

[brianblackberry]

Martini Paradise almost giggled out loud when Princess Cadance introduced herself. As if Martini didn't know who she was! Even without her royal jewelry and crown; how any lovely pink alicorns who'd had a royal wedding that turned into an invasion of Equestria that made the headlines in every paper and magazine were there, anyway? It was Cadance’s escort who Martini didn’t recognize for a minute, but it didn’t take long for the barmare to put two and two together though - this could only be Shining Armor! Wow, he is quite rugged! Definitely stronger and more handsome than in the photos! Martini couldn’t help but give a brief eye scan, looking him up and down. It wasn’t breaking any rules to admire handsome stallions, or picture what they'd look like on a 'Canterlot Guards of Summer' calendar.

She shook the mental image from her head and quickly returned her attention to the princess with a bright smile. “Why thank you so much, your high- I mean, thanks! My name is Martini, Martini Paradise, at your service!” It wasn’t easy to maintain the informality that suited the place with royalty right in front of her, but she was determined to stay true to the atmosphere Ponyland was famous for. “Glad you like the pressing." She grinned a bit. "I've been serving in bars and parties all over Equestria. One picks up a few things. I'm just lucky I happened to have a customer who told me all about what an excellent pressing this particular year and brand was. In great detail." Martini gave a playful, informal wink, hoping it wasn’t too much. She wasn’t sure how to do small talk with a princess. Should she ask about relationships? She was the princess of love after all, maybe she would have great advice and Martini could use some.

She looked back and forth at the couple, “would you like another, or perhaps something else for the handsome solider? We have it all here, so feel free to get off all four and relax a spell!” That was quite informal, but she chanced it - somehow, her baremare's instincts were telling her that the couple would appreciate it.

[Dio]

"Oh I wouldn't know, you'll need to show me," the alicorn taunted Shining Armor. "Talking and dancing are two very different things, but you knew that."

Shining Armor’s would-be retort was cut short by a tap on the flank from his wife; to which he only responded with a bemused smirk and a light flick of his tail against her flank. Of course, Cadence could hardly be bothered to notice, she seemed so enraptured by her drink. I may have to forgo the usual pint to try some of that, he mused. The playful teasing was a staple of their relationship, a constant game that kept them on their hooves and solidified the bond they had built, even in spite of... the last crisis.

As Cadence sipped, Shining Armor felt eyes upon him. Out of the corner of his eye, he caught the barmare looking him up and down, eliciting a quiet chuckle from the captain. It wasn’t the first time he’d been checked out and it certainly wouldn’t be the last. Admittedly, it was flattering, but Shining Armor did his best not to let it get to his head. Like he needed anything else to be viciously teased about by his wife; that one series of REA recruiting posters was bad enough!

"You really know your wines!" Cadence exclaimed. "I don't know many ponies who can pick out a good vintage for the rarer mixes. I'm Cadence, may I ask the name of our talented server?"

“Why thank you so much, your high- I mean, thanks! My name is Martini, Martini Paradise, at your service!”

“Glad to meet you, Martini!” Shining Armor said, introducing himself with a nod and a smile. “Echoing what my wife had to say, good customer service goes a long way. I’m glad this place had the mind to hire help as good as it was during my ROTC days!”

“Would you like another?” the barmare said, directed more to Cadence. “Or perhaps something else for the handsome soldier? We have it all here, so feel free to get off all four and relax a spell!”

“Actually, I change my mind about the ale,” the captain said. “I’ll have what she’s having. It’s been a long time since I’ve had a good vintage and I’d love to see what’s got her heart all aflutter!”

[Solaria]

Cadence lifted a subtle eyebrow as she sipped at her wine, as she was watching Shining Armor watch his admirer in Martini Paradise. It was an effort of will that she didn't sputter or choke on the delicious vintage, considering all the playfully needling remarks that sprung to her mind. On the outside, she was still perfectly resigned, enjoying her drink. Such self-control.

"It's a pleasure Martini!" the princess beamed, following her husband's introduction. "If you're getting him to drink wine," she gave a tiny jerk of her head in Shining's direction, "you know you're a skilled barsmare indeed! I mean, the wine itself is amazing but credit is always due to the one who picks it out."

She set her partially-drained glass on the countertop while listening to the music for a moment, mulling over the flavors again and again. Sometimes it bothered her, the tiniest bit, when she caught other mares eyeing her husband as Martini had been. She would always immediately dismiss such thoughts, as they were married and had been through so much. After all, hadn't she been taken in by his looks the first time she'd laid eyes on the unicorn stallion as well? It was only fair that others get to admire the prize that was her Shining Armor. Shaking her head slightly to clear away the little dark cloud hovering within it, she returned her gaze to their companion.

"So! How did you come to be in this business anyway?" she queried. "I don't think I've ever seen a dull, quiet barpony in my life. Where do you all get your energy and friendly.. spunkyness?" the mare asked, for lack of a better word.

[brianblackberry]

Martini Paradise was almost disappointed when Shining Armor changed his order - she didn't get to show off her fancy showponyship unless she was whipping up some mixed drinks. You had to fit the show to the drink, and this drink didn't call for exuberance. With the solemn dignity that a vintage like this deserved, Martini lifted the bottle and glass with her magic and poured the wine until the glass was half full; she didn't want to top it, wine like this needed to breath. "Here you go, good sir, and if you don't like it as much as you hope, I'm sure your lovely wife will be happy to finish it off for you, and we still have plenty of ales and mixed drinks on hoof!"

Martini was feeling a bit more comfortable now, but when the princess gave her a compliment and started asking after her own personal life, it still had her blushing like the school filly who got asked out by the cutest colt in class. "Thank you your-", c'mon Martini, your head in the game, "er, thanks again!" Martini gave an awkward smile. At least the princess didn't seem to have noticed the barmare eyeballing her husband earlier! "And ... well, I guess it is a family tradition of sorts. My folks ran a stand back in the Gallopocous that sold various fruity drinks to tourists. I started working with them when I was still a foal, running drinks out to customers, and eventually I was allowed to make drinks once my magic kicked in". It was best to leave out that her parents were too laid back to run the place well, and she'd kept it afloat by doing most of the day to day work. "It's a social business, tourists love the idea of talking to the natives, so you gotta learn to be real social and entertaining so they keep coming back! I didn't mind it at all, chatting with the customers is the best part of being a bartender! I suppose that is why I am so ... hee hee ... Spunky! Of all the types jobs I had to work, and some of them were awful, this is by far my favorite. It's what I love!" Martini had never been called spunky before, but she rather liked it. it made her sound young, almost like an older filly.

What was appropriate banter with a princess? C'mon Martini, just be yourself, it hasn't failed yet! "I was curious, if you don't mind me asking, how did you and such a fine stallion first meet? You know those tabloids, always telling weird wild tales, but in my experience, those 'first meeting' stories are always the sweetest." Martini gave a warm smile, hoping she wasn't prying too much.

[Dio]

Shining Armor sipped at his wine, a small smile playing at his lips as Martini asked about their first meeting. It wasn’t that he minded recounting meeting his wife. But it was a long story; where would he start? Deployment? Garrison duty? ROTC? The years they spent separated by their jobs? High school?

To be sure, Cadence probably remembered it very differently than Shining Armor. The captain tended to remember things by events and experiences. There was school. There was downtime between classes. There was studying and homework. Then there was “ studying and homework.” There was deployment and diplomacy and tearful goodbyes. There were letters, many of them. Finally there was the reunion and of course, the wedding.

It was quite a tale and perhaps, it would have been best to start at the beginning...

“It was obviously love at first sight!” the captain laughed, flicking his tail in jest and grinning smugly at his wife. “I mean, look at this? Who could resist?”

Of course, it was much more complicated than that. But what did he care? Everypony was here to have a good time, Martini included. Besides, Shining Armor was certain Cadence would have some equally witty barb to return.

“Isn’t that right, honey?” Shining Armor said, leaning against Cadence and gently clinking his wine glass against hers.

[Solaria]

Cadence watched Martini go through a bit of an internal struggle, her dealings in empathy causing her to read the minute facial expressions most ponies didn't notice, although she did it more than she probably should. It was a little hard to turn off once learned. She would do her best to be friendly and laid-back, however, as she'd gotten this reaction before: ponies who wondered just how far they could relax around royalty. Cadence wasn't her aunts, and though she recognized that a certain formality had to be upheld at times, this wasn't one of them.

"Of course," the mare said airily with a smirk, taking another sip from her wine glass as it tinkled with sound from the contact with her husband's. "A young princess and the future poster boy of the REA? By high school standards, it was bound to happen! We all know that the social hierarchy of students directly translates into one's standing post-schooling..."

In truth, she had always appreciated how sincere and dedicated Shining had been, even at that confused age. It had impressed the more naive Cadence, and somewhat played upon her fantastical ideal of how a perfect stallion should be. After all, she'd only had stories and books to go from before she'd actually attended school. As she finished the last of her delicious wine, she turned back to their barsmare companion.

"Martini, if you don't mind I'd like something with a little fire to it. You said your family served fruity drinks, right? I think I'll ask to be impressed," she teased lightly. "I'd like to really get the night started, since my husband seems oh so hesitant."

[brianblackberry]

Martini Paradise's face brightened with a ridiculously huge smile. She had to really fight not to giggle at the goofy, saccharine answer she got from the captain. Most likely there was some embarrassing story involving his awkward colt years when he first ran into a princess where he said something facehoof-worthy as a first impression. She didn't think he was avoiding a real answer as much as he was just flirting with the missus in an adorkable sort of way. He was right, though - Cadence was incredibly stunning. There was just some comforting aura about her that was hard to describe, something that just made you think about beauty and love.

The barmare awoke from her contemplating daydream when Cadance spoke her own thoughts on the couple's first meeting along with a quip on secondary school. She let out a soft laugh and agreed, "True enough! Though I never finished secondary school myself, I had ... to leave home." She wasn't sure why she had revealed something so personal - there was just something about the princess that made one comfortable enough to talk about anything.

What Cadance asked for next though gave Martini an eager smile. Something with fire, eh? She doubted the princess meant that literally, but Martini would deliver nonetheless! This bar didn't have quite the right ingredients to make a proper island drink, but she could make do.

Two big, round bourbon glasses floated down from above the bar, as Martini's hooves rummaged in the mini-fridge for the carton of orange juice. She poured the glasses about half-full each, then added pineapple juice for flavor. A colorful bottle of cherry liquor floated down from behind Martini, adding generous doses of color, flavor, and alcohol to the mix, and nearly topping it, and Martini finished it off by dropping several whole strawberries - minus the greenery - into the glasses, along with a number of mini-marshmallows to float on top, soaking up the red-orange liquid to color themselves.

Now was the fun part. Two spoons floated on over, and a deep amber bottle of Amaretto. The amber liquid drizzled over the backs of the spoons and seeped onto the surface of the drinks, while Martini brought down a third glass - this one a pint glass. One last bottle came floating forward - the golden Coltreau. As Martini uncorked the bottle, a rich citrusy scent added to the fruit aroma already floating up from the drinks, and she added only the smallest of splashes into the empty pint glass. All the tools, the bottles, and the ingredients floated back to their places as Martini's telekinesis swirled the splash of Coltreau in the pint glass, coating the sides with its rich, citrusy touch.

She pushed the two glasses closer to her guests. "Sir, Ma'am, I present to you ... the Eruption!" With a spark of her horn, she lit up the pint glass ... the entire glass filled with flame, and a sharp touch took to the citrusy scent wafting around. She poured what seemed just a touch of liquid flame into each of the two drinks, and the amaretto on top blazed into life, lighting up the red-orange liquid within, and half-melting and scorching the mini-marshmallows floating on top, giving it the appearance of molten lava. With a satisfied *thunk*, she set the pint-glass upside-down on the bar, extinguishing the flames within and leaving only their drinks illuminating this side of the bar.

[Dio]

[colour=#0000cd]“Always,”[/colour] Shining Armor smirked.

Despite the playful barbs thrown back and forth and the fairy-tale nature of their courtship, their bond ran deeper than a simple high school romance. That wasn’t to say that looks and charm had nothing to do with it. Even in the early days, there was something irresistible about Cadence that would have any headstrong colt jonesing for a spot with Her Majesty’s finest falling hooves over head for. Shining Armor was no exception. The captain took a long draft from his glass, perhaps a bit more irreverently than intended.

[colour=#ee82ee]"Martini, if you don't mind I'd like something with a little fire to it. You said your family served fruity drinks, right? I think I'll ask to be impressed,"[/colour] Cadence teased lightly. [colour=#ee82ee]"I'd like to really get the night started, since my husband seems oh so hesitant."[/colour]

Shining Armor snorted in mock contempt. [colour=#0000cd]“If you really wanted to get yourself going, you would have ordered 4 shots of Stallianoya and been done with it!”[/colour]

He leaned in closer, holding a hoof up to his muzzle as if whispering, but speaking obviously loud enough for Martini to hear. [colour=#0000cd]“Of course, that’s not saying I’d object to just us and a bottle of Stallianoya for old time’s sake!”[/colour]

Martini, of course, was already in motion, preparing Cadence’s drink order in spite of the captain’s remarks. Shining Armor’s eyes darted back and forth as he watched the show, bottles flying, beverage ingredients sloshing in glasses, out of glasses, and back into glasses, garnish dancing, and finally the tongues of flame licking at the air as their drinks settled in front of them. A smile crossed the captain’s face as he clapped his hooves in delight.

[colour=#0000cd]“Bravo!”[/colour] he said as he levitated both glasses up, one of them drifting over and hovering in front of his wife’s muzzle like an oversized birthday candle. [colour=#0000cd]“Make a wish, dear!”[/colour]

[Solaria]

Cadence gave the smallest of quirks to her eyebrows as Martini revealed even more about herself, though she said nothing. After all, if the mare wanted to share she was more than welcome to. The duty to be accessible kind of came with the crown. Well.... her crown anyway. It was a self-imposed crusade to be friends with as many of her subjects as she could. She nudged her shoulder against Shining Armor at his playful quip, but her eyes were all for the barsmare when she announced that she would meet the princess's request.

"[colour=#ee82ee]We'll get to the Stallianoya later, dear[/colour]," she murmured in a sideways whisper, her attention locked on the floating bottles and glassware.

Martini hadn't fudged any of the truth about herself, and put on quite a display that showcased what had to be years of development on telekinetic control and precision. Cadence could see why tourists would keep coming back if they got a presentation like this every time. It was mesmerizing. When the amaretto was set ablaze and poured into the drinks, she let out a small squeal of surprise and delight before turning to the concoction her husband held before her. Thinking for just a moment, she squeezed her eyes shut and blew out the flames.

"[colour=#ee82ee]Now, Martini[/colour]," she said quietly, a mischievous glint in her gaze. "[colour=#ee82ee]I think it's only fair that you get to join us, even for a short while. We'll call it a royally-influenced break[/colour]." As she spoke Cadence focused heavily, extending her senses into the small cellar from which her first glass of wine had originated. "[colour=#ee82ee]No... no...[/colour]" she muttered, flitting from bottle to bottle. "[colour=#ee82ee]There[/colour]!"

With a hint of glee the alicorn retrieved several different vintages and brought them hovering into the air before the trio. Just to double-check, she uncorked a few to make sure she had selected the right flavors. After all, it had been years since she'd done this. She of course didn't question that she was allowed to do this either, after all Martini had already mentioned that she was only filling in so these weren't her personal stores. If the owner got a little frazzled she could always offer a little gold from the royal coffers to compensate. But, being the princess of love and passion, it never came to that...

"[colour=#ee82ee]My father taught me this long ago[/colour]," the rose mare explained, retrieving the nicest wine glass she could find and causing the 4 bottles she'd selected to orbit it like it was a tiny crystalline moon. "[colour=#ee82ee]Hopefully I still know the technique[/colour]." With that, she began to sing ever so softly, her voice all but lost to the music of the club as she tilted the Itailian vintage first, prompting a small cascade of deep ruby liquid to spill into the waiting Bordeaux below. "[colour=#ee82ee]Frutto della vite, frutto della vite, meraviglioso mix di sapore [/colour][colour=#ee82ee]divino[/colour]," she trilled, adding the Everfree Sauvignon now. "[colour=#ee82ee]Tenete il vostro cuore al disegno vero amore[/colour]," she at last tilted the Marelia Syrah and Hasufel Malbec, their colors blending with the others into a waterfall of sparkling cerise as their maestro's voice rose and fell in gentle lilts. "[colour=#ee82ee]Il lavello alla tentazione, frutto della vite...[/colour]"

At the conclusion of her small song, the four bottles were swirling above the glass in a glittering vortex of aroma and motion before settling gracefully all at once on the countertop. Cadence's horn glowed for just a moment, and the mixed wine she had produced pulsed with an inner light. Her song wasn't actually a spell or an incantation, it was just something her father sung while he made it all those years ago. It brought back warm memories and thoughts, which in turn touched her inherent alicorn magic, something deeper and a lot more soulbound than what unicorns usually commanded. General magic was a tool of the mind, whereas Cadence's strongest powers lay within her heart. But they knew that. She lifted her own Eruption in salute.

"[colour=#ee82ee]To new friends and fun?[/colour]" she questioned, a smile on her face.

[brianblackberry]

As Martini Paradise stood proudly behind the bar counter, enjoying the appreciation of the princess and ... was Shining Armor now a prince? Her mind was already on the next drink to serve, Stallianoya. That particular drink certainly was more familiar for Ponyland, a perpetual favorite among the REA officers who wanted a more refined grain drink of quality. It was no surprise that Shining Armor was among their ranks, though she wondered if Cadance had ever tried it.

Before Martini could suit action to thought, though, Cadance made a shocking request - well, shocking to Martini. The Princess actually ordered her to join them in a drink! Normally Martini would politely refuse - it was a cardinal rule that the bartender never partook in drinking with the customers, but Cadance was royalty! That certainly override any normal rules, right? How could her boss object, how could she say no? Even if Cadance wasn't a princess it would be hard to refuse, there was just something about her, something that made one feel at ease, relaxed, happy. Martini was sure it wasn't a spell, but instead simply a presence, it was hard to describe. [colour=#cc6699]"Umm ... Well, I really shouldn't, but I suppose ... Just this once would be alright. Thank you, Princess Cadance"[/colour] Saying princess wasn't too formal, was it?

The pink unicorn simply watched in amazement as Cadance retrieved various wine bottles without ever once laying eyes upon them, her amazement turned into happiness as she listened to Cadance's song. Everything became faintly surreal as the rose colored alicorn sang, as if the rest of the place simply blurred away. All of her focus was on Cadance and her melody, which could only be described as bewitching in its soft, personal elegance. A magic that had nothing to do with the arcane.

Martini let out a long, peaceful breath as the princess finished, and the mixture of wine stood on the bar before her, glowing invitingly. The club slowly returned to reality, and Martini blushed softly as she lifted the glass with her magic, not sure what to say that a pony of such stature and station was calling her friend. [colour=#cc6699]Well, don't make it awkward - just treat her like you'd treat anypony else! [/colour] This was Ponyland, after all, where all the trappings and pretenses of rank and status were left at the door. [colour=#cc6699]"To new friends and fun! Sliante!"[/colour]

Martini took a slow, respectful sip of the concoction, and let it rest on her tongue for a moment. Smooth, sweet, fruity, the different vintages each complimenting and contributing to the other. She'd never have been able to guess the ingredients without having watched the procedure. [colour=#cc6699]"That was art, your majest- er Cadance. Where did you learn to mix drinks?[/colour]" Martini smiled eagerly, her eyes shining at the chance to talk shop, [colour=#cc6699]"I never would have thought it was something a princess would learn."[/colour] She paused a moment, then admitted, [colour=#cc6699]"Though I have no idea what kind of formal education you had to go through." [/colour] Martini hoped she wasn't being too rude, but somehow it felt alright to ask about most anything.

[Dio]

Shining Armor blew out his eruption shot shortly after his wife’s faux birthday wish. He was tempted to ask what it was, but he knew exactly what the response would have been: a teasing admonition on how wishes couldn’t be told or they wouldn’t come true followed by a quip about him being silly. It wasn’t the first time it had happened, after all, and could be construed as something of an inside joke. What surprised Armor was Cadence’s insistence that Martini join them.

[colour=#0000cd]“I suppose you’ll be asking her to come home with us, next!”[/colour] he joked.

But by the time he’d gotten that out, Cadence was already deep in her own little world, softly cooing a little canticle in her native tongue. Words and melodies, wine and glasses, all swirled together in a colourful whorl of sound, lights, and feeling. Martini wasn’t the only one enraptured in song. Armor flicked his tail happily to the rhythm of Cadence’s voice, his eyes nearly going googly as he watched his wife put on the show.

[colour=#0000cd]“To new friends and fun,”[/colour] he smiled, echoing his wife’s toast as he clinked the glasses together. [colour=#0000cd]“Cheers!”[/colour]

With that pronouncement, Armor rapidly downed his shot, shivering a bit as the drink warmed him from the inside out. While Cadence had implied earlier that she’d rather be on the dance floor, the simple conversation with the barmare and knocking back a few drinks had given Armor a healthy respite and a chance to relax. Besides, Cadence would probably be happier if he were a bit looser when they finally did decide to cut a rug. For now, he was content to sip at his remaining wine and observe the conversation...

[Solaria]

Cadence smiled as Martini seemed to loosen a bit more with each passing moment; the unicorn's growing ease around both the princess and her husband was actually noticeable and gave the alicorn a warm feeling of satisfaction. It was always nice to show ponies that she was one of them, just... with a longer lifespan. As a barsmare Martini seemed to have caught on to this a little more quickly than most, which was a rather pleasant surprise.

"[colour=#ee82ee]If we ever need a good drink, I just might[/colour]," Cadence shot right back at Shining Armor. "[colour=#ee82ee]She is rather talented[/colour]."

With that she took a large quaff of her eruption, squeezing her eyes shut and wiggling slightly at the warmth before grinning. She still had some work to do if she was going to match even her husband's tolerance, as being a pony of almost pure magic apparently had no bearing on one's ability to keep their head after too many drinks. Oh well, best to let him keep his victories.

"[colour=#ee82ee]My father taught me[/colour]," Cadence repeated, turning her attention back to their "guest," a rather ironic term to use really. "[colour=#ee82ee]He would always say that a perfect glass of wine could wash away the troubles of the day. I'm mostly inclined to agree with him now, though when I was little I couldn't stand the aftertastes. I can't count the number of days that I spent in the vineyard, walking with him and learning the differences between each plant and how each could be coaxed to contribute their own unique flavor to create what he called the 'symphony of life in liquid form,' if I remember correctly[/colour]." She blushed slightly. "[colour=#ee82ee]My father thought very highly of the art[/colour]."

The alicorn took a moment to sip at her drink, mulling over her thoughts while staring into her rippling reflection. It had been a long time. She would have liked to walk the vineyards again.

"[colour=#ee82ee]As for my education, I thought it would never end. Manners, dancing, social niceties, dinner etiquette, how to dress, not to mention the history of Equestria since the Coming of the Sun and Moon and everything in between. It's a lot to learn[/colour]," she laughed, waving a dismissive hoof. "[colour=#ee82ee]And not a lot of it interesting, especially when talking over such nice drinks. So I guess instead I'll ask what your favorite activities outside of mixing drinks are[/colour]," Cadence returned, genuinely interested in the pony before her.

[brianblackberry]

Martini Paradise blushed wide eyed at Shining Armor's joking suggestion that the royal couple take Martini home with them. Sure it was said in jest, and sure it was mainly in reference to her bartending skills, but it was still a shock to hear, especially when Martini let her mind briefly wander to what else such a situation would entail with the beautiful couple. She shook her head back into reality and took another sip of the amazing vintage - It was really hard to describe, it was like drinking an elixir of love and compassion.

As Martini listened to the alicorn princess' story of her father it dawned upon her this is the very first time she ever heard about any of the parents of the royals. The very concept of any of the princesses having parents never even occurred to the unicorn barmare before, but it made sense - Every other pony had parents, so why shouldn't the alicorns, right?

Cadance's description of her education sounded much like Martini imagined it would, and a clear contrast to the unicorn mare's own sad lack of formal schooling. What did surprise Martini was Cadance's curiosity about Martini's other hobbies. Not many ever asked Martini what she was into, mostly it was the barmare listening to whatever the customer found interesting about their own life. [colour=#cc6699]"Well as much as I enjoy doing this, I have just as much passion for the outdoors, especially the forest and the beach! I love the beach… Grew up on the Gallopocous actually and its so very beautiful, but you probably knew that already."[/colour] Martini blushed as she smiled and took another slip of her drink, [colour=#cc6699]"lately I have been more into delving into exploring mysterious ruins, caves, and even getting into archeology! All thanks to a one Brazil Nut!" [/colour]

Martini blushed some more at that last sentence, she was really becoming infatuated with the earth pony explorer, she just wasn't sure if he liked her in the same way. Of course she now wanted to ask the princess of love for advice, but she didn't want to impose - Cadance and Shining were her customers, after all.

[colour=#cc6699]"Speaking of fascinating and far off places, that vineyard sounds amazing, do you still visit it today? I'd sure love to see what wonderful wines are produced there!"[/colour]