//------------------------------//
// Chapter 9: Dapper's Hearth's Warming 
// Story: At Your Service 
// by DanishDash 
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It was that time of the year again, snow was falling softly all over Equestria. Decorations filled every street, and every pony had a song in their heart. It was truly a time for fun, family, and friends. 

For Dapper however, he found himself sitting in his apartment at the palace, enjoying a quiet breakfast, reading the paper and enjoying the relaxing scenery of snow falling. Dapper had actually been able to sleep in for once, it felt nice to relax and enjoy a cup of coffee and some buttered toast.

He loved toast, funny that he could make all kinds of delicious and probably even more appetizing breakfasts, he had everything he needed in the royal kitchen, it would have been quite simple. Dapper however, he liked the simple things, like toast, slightly burned, butter that melts, strawberry marmalade, and cheese. Then of course a nice glass of orange juice, and then finishing with a nice cup of black coffee. 

So why could he sleep in today?

The castle was almost empty, devoid of nobles and much of the staff. What little guard force remained was only the bare minimum required to defend it, as many had gone home to their families. As for the serving staff, only he was left. All official business was always put on hold during the holidays, and so many ponies went home to be with their loved ones.

As for Dapper, well, he had nowhere to go, and so he simply decided to stay back and work. His ladies were sleeping in, of course Celestia raised the sun, but then went back under the covers, or so he had been told. It suited him just fine, he didn't have many mornings like this, so it was a nice change.

He looked to his pocket watch as he turned the page of his newspaper. It was nearly time to get breakfast ready for the three royals, Blueblood pretty much always slept in. He enjoyed a life of nobility, but the stallion was still acting like he was at boarding school.  The problem with the foals of nobles was they did not have to grow up at the same rate as other ones, and so seemed to relax about everything. That went double for Blueblood, he never had to fear for his income or having a roof over his head.

Well, at least not until Dapper showed up and won the deed to his house.

Not wanting to waste too much time, he finished his coffee and started to clear the table. Like always it didn't take him long, skillfully and organized he had the dishes cleaned and back in their places, with the table neat once again, and the trash taken care of. 

Thereafter Dapper enjoyed a nice warm shower, he let out a long sigh. It was cold outside, and here he was feeling the warm water move down his body, it felt so good. Then he winced, feeling a pang of pain moving through his wing. "Buck.." He mumbled, for a moment forgetting about that stupid wing. Lucky Star's words echoed in his mind as he carefully stretched his bad wing, every nerve in it protesting the movement.

'Maybe you would relax more, and so would your friends, if you decided to fix your wing.'

'Replace it with an enchanted prosthesis.. You would be able to fly again, Dapper..'

Dapper closed his eyes tightly, feeling the pain grow the more he stretched the wing outward. As they could feel the waves of pain start to match up with his heartbeat, the words of Lucky just seemed to be hammered into his mind like a nail to a board. He gritted his teeth, feeling himself shake slightly as he tried to ignore the pain grow.

"No.." 

Dapper whispered, the word drowned out by the sound of the shower. It wasn't as simple as just replacing it, he didn't want to, he did not deserve to. No matter what other ponies might say, this was his thing to deal with. It was a just punishment, despite what Lucky claimed about his guilt, Dapper could not shake it off. To him his guilt was justified, and he was paying the price for it. Maybe one day he could be allowed to shake it off, but until then, no matter how much pain he was in, no matter how much he missed flying, he would endure it all.

Folding the wing back up, he turned off the water and got out to get ready for the day ahead. He took a pill, not wanting to get dressed before he had some drugs in his system to take the worst edge off. It took effect quickly, and he slipped into his usual suit, slid into his blazer, adjusted his tie, and finally moved his pocket watch into its usual spot.

With himself prepared, Dapper made his way down into the kitchen, nopony was there, but that was to be expected. The only cooks left were the volunteer cooks for the guard force. It didn't matter, Dapper was perfectly capable of cooking breakfast, he knew his lady's cravings well, and so did he Blueblood's.

He had been told it didn't need to be too fancy, for the princesses anyway. So he made it quite homey, kind of like the breakfast he himself had. For Blueblood however, he would get his usual fancy breakfast, with all sorts of details that was harder to pull off. Still, he did it the way he liked it.

Unlike the princesses, Blueblood would not stay in the palace. He had some family he was going to visit, and so Dapper was taking him to the train station later on today. That would be after breakfast, then after he had delivered the young master to the train station he would have some time on his own. 

Perhaps visiting Lucky Star, wishing him happy heartwarming, or something like that. He would also need to get some flowers, and maybe, just maybe send a letter to his family. He wasn't really sure he should, nothing was stopping him other than himself. Maybe Hearth’s Warming was a good enough excuse to drop them a line or two.

He probably wouldn't, but he could write the letter, then see where that took him. For now however it was time to get the royals their breakfast. After preparing three meals, he placed them on a trolley and made his way through the palace. There was no need to use the servants' passageways, not when there weren't any official business going on.

Besides, he liked the walk through the palace. Even if he had lived here for a few months, he could still feel amazed at the place, still feel a sense of awe. The snow falling outside the many windows only added to that beauty, and more than once he had to remind himself to hurry on along before the breakfast got cold.

First stop on the way was Blueblood's room, it was closest, and so he might as well get it over with. Dapper knocked, but he never really waited, after all, he was a gentlestallion's gentlestallion, which meant he had a bit more leeway. He opened the door and went inside the dark room.

Dapper kept a reflexive sigh to himself, the young master had been out again with his friends. Thankfully he had prepared for this very thing, and had taken liberty to prepare for Blueblood a cocktail of his own creation that should banish his hangover. For now however, it was time to wake him up.

Instead of saying anything, Dapper went straight over to the large curtains, found the velvet rope, gave it a hard yank, and with that the curtains went aside. The whole room lit up in an almost blinding white light, and Blueblood almost fell out of bed from the sudden change.

"Argh! Blasted Dapper!"

"Good morning sir." Dapper said, his eyes scanning the room. There were evening clothes spread around the place, even a bottle of very expensive champagne. "Late night, sir?" Blueblood didn't reply, instead he just waved a hoof and grumbled something Dapper could not catch. Still, it confirmed what he had suspected. "I see, sir." 

Without another word, Dapper went to the trolley, got the glass of disgusting looking liquid, placed it on a small silver tray and presented it to Blueblood. If this had been the first time, then Blueblood might have revolted in disgust at seeing the thick liquid, but knowing what it was, and what it would do, he looked at it like it was the most beautiful thing he had ever seen. 

Quickly he snatched it and started to drink greedily. Dapper waited patiently while the cocktail vanished before his eyes with greater speed than he had ever seen before. In one go Blueblood made the content vanish, once done, he gasped for air and placed the glass on the small silver tray. 

"Ahhhh.... I say..." Blueblood said like he had just popped a painkiller. "That hit the spot. I say, Dapper?"

"Yes sir?" 

"How can you make something that revolting get rid of all my ails?" He asked as Dapper went to switch the little tray out with the bigger one with his breakfast. 

"Secret of the guild, sir." Dapper replied and came back with the tray and placed it on the bed. "Does sir requite today's newspaper?"

"Hm? Oh no no, nothing in there would interest me today." Blueblood said and took a sip of his tea.

Dapper inclined his head. "Very good sir." Turning the room, Dapper began to pick up clothing and other such things that littered the floor. Blueblood just enjoyed himself, leaning back and munching away on his omelets.  When the clothes were gathered in a pile, he turned to the young master, pulled out his pocket watch and checked the time.

"We should be on our way in three hours. If sir would be so kind as to shower and get ready in an hour's time, then I shall return so we can pack sir's suitcase."

Blueblood nodded, waving him off before swallowing. "Yes yes, I shall be ready when you say."

Dapper inclined his head. "As you say. Will sir require anything else?"

"No no, I have everything I need." 

"Very good, sir. Then if you will excuse me." 

Dapper took his leave, pushing the trolley on down the marble halls. Despite Blueblood being as spoiled as mortally possible, he had improved since he met him. There was still a long way before the young master would be a true gentlestallion, but Dapper would make it so his ladies did not have to worry so much about him anymore. Besides, it was about high time Blueblood grew up.

Letting out a sigh, Dapper continued to trot along. Nopony was around, and he had to admit, he was feeling a bit chipper. Despite the time of year, Dapper was in a good mood. Maybe it was because he slept in for once, or he had a nice breakfast, or maybe he had taken two pills instead of one. Whatever it was, he could not stop himself from humming a tune.

Unfortunately for ponies, song magic is hard to resist, he could hear the music, and before he knew it he opened his mouth to sing, much to his frustration. Still, it was a nice day, so why not enjoy it for now?


Everything is lovely,The world is so serene.
When I say things are lovely,
You know just what I mean,
It means that I'll be happy.
No more I'll have to guess,
I feel so oh-so happy,
Since someone answered yes.

Birds are singing merrily,
The sun is shining peacefully,
Because my baby don't mean maybe now.

When the preacher questions me,
I'll say "yes, sir, yessiree",
Because my baby don't mean maybe now.

I just got a little letter,
Just yesterday.
Now I feel a little better
And so I say...

Life is short and mighty sweet,
But I know mine is quite complete,
Because my baby don't mean maybe now.

Birds are singing merrily,
Sun is shining peacefully,
Because my baby don't mean maybe now.

When the preacher questions me,
I'll say "yes, sir, yessiree",
Because my baby don't mean maybe now.

I just got a little letter,
Just yesterday.
Now I feel a little better,
And so, so I say...

Life is short, mighty sweet,
But I know mine is quite complete,
Because my baby don't mean maybe,
Maybe now.


Despite being annoyed at being forced to sing by magic, he still felt quite good about it, and luckily nopony heard. When he arrived at his destination he had thankfully gotten it all out of his system. Standing in front of the door to Celestia's quarters, he took a deep breath and knocked gently. 

Five seconds later her serene voice called out calmly. "Enter." He did so, and found his lady in her large bed, enjoying a book in the light of the warm fireplace. Celestia smiled when she saw him. "Ah, good morning Dapper Dash."

"Good morning, uhm, Celestia." Dapper greeted back, using her name instead of her title or some polite way to address her. This was the agreement, the promise, to be less formal in private, but it was still a bit hard to get used to.

Putting a hoof to her mouth, she giggled. She always found it amusing, but she never commented on it, wanting Dapper to become comfortable with it on his own time, usually he calmed down shortly after. "You must excuse me, I'm indecent."

Dapper shook his head, taking the tray with her breakfast and carried it inside. "Nonsense, you look as lovely as the dawn you bring each morning." Dapper flinched, instantly regretting saying it. Not because he did not mean it, but because no matter how friendly they had become, she was still his princess.

Celestia however seemed more taken aback than angry, then she smiled with a slight embarrassed look about her. "You use your words well Mr. Dash.." Chuckling, she looked at the breakfast. "It smells delicious. Have you awoken my sister yet?"

Dapper shook his head. "No, I know she has rested most of the night, but it is still quite a change to her usual schedule." He replied as he placed the tray on her bed. "I will wake her shortly."

"Very good." She levitated some tea to her cup. "Which reminds me, Dapper, do you not have anyone to see this Hearth’s Warming?"

"No, me and my family have a strained relationship."

She frowned. "I am sorry to hear that, Dapper."

He simply shrugged. "I plan to write them, but that's about it I'm afraid. I don't expect a reply." Then he smiled, not wanting to depress her with his own family issues. "In any case, I don't mind being here to serve you and your sister."

Celestia smiled slightly, putting some sugar in her tea as she thought about spending Hearth’s Warming with Luna. Then, she put the spoon down and looked at Dapper. "This will be the first Hearth’s Warming Eve I celebrate with Luna since her banishment." 

Dapper frowned, his heart aching a little by the thought. It was true, it had not even been a year since Luna appeared as Nightmare Moon, until then Celestia had spent a thousand years, a thousand winters, a thousand Hearth’s Warmings, alone. He couldn't imagine the pain she had to go through, the kind of guilt eating at her very core. 

He could relate, and it just reminded him of his own guilt. It was like the pain became a bit stronger the more he thought about it, but he shook his head, trying to keep his head out of those dark thoughts. "She is home however, and maybe instead of marking this as the end something, mark at it as a new beginning."

"Indeed." Celestia smiled. "Indeed we shall. I fear though my sister is a little nervous, normally we would celebrate this day with friends and family, but after one thousand years.."

Dapper nodded. "Yes, that would be difficult. I'm truly sorry." 

She sighed. "Thank you Dapper, it is a trying time for her. Though I am confident we can see this through and look forward."

"I have no doubt." Dapper replied and inclined his head. "I should go see if she is up."

Celestia nodded, taking another sip of her tea. "Thank you Dapper, take your time. It is the holiday after all."

Dapper chuckled. "I shall strive to remember it."

He left Celestia to her breakfast and book, having to admit he enjoyed seeing her so relaxed. It wasn't often he got to see his lady this way, and it was a look that made her look quite adorable. After he closed the door, he continued on his way. As he did so, he thought about what Celestia had said.

This was the first Hearth’s Warming since Luna's banishment, she was used to another kind of celebration. Ponies she knew around her, all of them having a good time. This year however, it was to be just her and her older sister. Then there was him, though he would just be serving them, so that didn't really count. Sadly though, as much as he wanted to solve this problem and help Luna get a nice Hearth’s Warming Eve, there wasn't really much he could do.

The thought about not being able to do something frustrated him, but as he arrived at Luna's room, he chased any such thoughts away. No reason to let the young Alicorn see something was troubling him. He took a deep breath, knocked, then waited for a reply, but none came.

Unlike with Celestia, who had responded only after a few seconds, no reply came from Luna. He frowned, then he sighed, remembering she was in all likelihood sleeping. She had from one day to the next changed her entire schedule to enjoy this day with her sister. He knocked again, figuring he should make sure before he attempted to open the door on his own initiative.

There was still no reply, and so Dapper had no other option than to open the door, and risk his hide. Slowly he turned the handle and pushed open the door, not wanting to risk waking the princess of the night as sudden as he had with Blueblood. Unlike him, Luna needed to be woken with more care, if you did not want to have a manebrush or something wacked over your head.

Dapper expected to find Luna in her bed, though as he ventured farther inside, he quickly found she was not there. Instead the curtains had been drawn, and by the large windows, looking at the snow slowly falling was the moon princess herself. Dapper didn't move at first, watching her for a few seconds. She looked calm, yet, the way she sat spoke of a sort of sadness Dapper could only interpret as loneliness.

He frowned, knowing a lonely pony when he saw one, he himself felt like that sometimes. "Luna?" He called gently, being forward with her name as he had been with Celestia.

Her body gave a slight shake, clearly giving away she had not heard him come in, and the sudden realization surprised her. Turning her head to the side, she looked at him. "Ah, morning to you Dapper Dash. How was your night?"

"Quite well, thank you. How about you, Luna?" He asked, trying not to say she looked sad. If she wanted to share it on her own accord, then she would. Celestia had already told him, but Luna might feel a lot better telling him herself.

She let out a long sigh. "I have been better, I admit.." There was a pause, and sensing she needed a bit of support, Dapper made his way over to the windows and planted himself beside her, looking out at the falling snow. After a few seconds of silence, she continued. "It has been some time since I last had the chance to celebrate this day."

Dapper nodded. "I've heard something about that, yes."

Luna raised an eyebrow with a small amused smirk. "You are kind to pretend, but there is no reason to shy away from the truth. My banishment is widely known after all."

"Perhaps," said Dapper, shrugging. "Though I prefer to see it as Nightmare Moon's banishment, you were trapped, and now you're back."

She eyed him for a moment, then returned her gaze to her view outside. "We used to have these grand parties, massive feasts where we invited everypony we knew and liked. There were games, dances, music, presents, food and drinks. It would go on for a long time, until none of us could keep ourselves awake. It was the best night of the year, but now.."

"Now it is just a reminder of something you lost.." Dapper finished. "Something that cannot be as it once was."

Luna looked at Dapper again, surprised, but when she noticed his eyes, she could tell he knew exactly how she felt. Something in him knew the pain she was feeling, a hint of guilt and loss. She decided not to ask him about it, not now at least, not today. Instead she looked out once again, finding calm looking out at the slowly falling snow, and comfort knowing he was right beside her.

"Yes." Luna confirmed. "I have healed the wound between me and Celestia, but I fear it will act up again as me and my sister try to celebrate."

Dapper nodded. "Old wounds, especially deep ones, take time." He looked at her. "Doesn't mean you should stop trying."

He felt another pang of guilt, he might as well be on the other end of this conversation, with Lucky Star sitting where he was. Was he really so arrogant he thought his problems were greater than Luna's? So great in fact he did not feel he could follow his own advice? Maybe, or maybe he was just a coward.

Luna smiled, despite seeing his own struggle, she was thankful for his words of encouragement. "I thank you for your kind words, but I fear this is something I alone just have to get through."

"Of course." 

Dapper replied, knowing he had helped a little, but not enough to turn her mood around. Not that he expected to, it was no small thing the princess was thinking about, no trivial matter that could be solved with a simple hug. 

Sensing the topic was closed for now, Dapper moved to get her breakfast, she thanked him, and then he was on his way again. Checking the time, Dapper could see he would need to get to Blueblood's apartment soon and help him pack. The young master didn't have the talent for it, and if they were to hope to catch the train this year, then Dapper would need to ensure the packing was neat and organized. 

It was to be a war like no other, and Dapper would need to be ready to use a firm hoof to convince his master not to bring some of his more... Interesting, items of clothing, like that dreadful straw hat.. Knowing he needed all the help he could get, Dapper decided to take another painkiller now, feeling he needed to numb the pain early before he would cast himself into hell.





11:55 AM.

"If sir would please hurry, his train is about to depart, and I think it would be in his best interest to depart with it." Dapper said as he with all haste moved down the long platform towards Blueblood's train.

Blueblood picked up the pace, hating to run, or something that even came close to it. Sweat and hard work was something for the common ponies after all, not for a gentlestallion such as himself. "Come now Dapper, surely the train would not leave without me."

Dapper shook his head, thanking Luna above they had already given the luggage to the proper ponies so they could put it in the baggage wagon. "I'm afraid they will be obliged to sir, Equestrian railroad policy leaves no room for ponies who are late and can threaten the company's esteemed record and timing." 

The two moved a bit faster, and finally they arrived at the first class section. Dapper moved up beside the steps to the wagon, holding the saddlebag ready for Blueblood. "Have a nice trip young master, try to arrive back here at the proper time."

Blueblood panted a little, then composed himself. "Thank you Dapper, I shall try not to disappoint." He levitated the small saddlebag onto his own back, and got into the wagon.

"And I shall try not to hold my breath.." 

Dapper mumbled, seeing the train starting to move only a few seconds after the conductor had blown his whistle. The train moved away, leaving Dapper with a moment to breathe. He finally had some time on his hooves, and he could focus on his more private matters before returning to the palace and preparing dinner.

Celestia had told him, in fact, she had insisted they would take care of lunch themselves. Dapper suspected there were two reasons for that. First, she wanted some bonding time with Luna, second, she wanted to give Dapper free time as well. It was so like Celestia to consider other ponies like that, even give them a push towards something they did not want if it meant helping.

Dapper appreciated the thought, but there really wasn't much for him to do. He figured he would get his private matter over and done with, then return to the palace and get some lunch before beginning cooking.

The streets were buzzing with activity and decorations. Beautiful lights everywhere, and foals running from shop window to shop window, all eying the things they were wishing for. Dapper himself did not really have any wishes, and those he had he would not dare to say out loud.

He went to a café, ordering a cake and coffee, deciding to focus on his letter first. The coffee was great, the cake was delicious, but as time passed, no words came to him. Dapper had nothing to say, or at least, nothing he thought his family would like him to say. He groaned, frustrated that he could not write a simple letter..

When half an hour had passed, he gave up, deciding not to force any words out that were false, better for them not to get a lie. Instead he paid, thanked the staff for the use of the quill, and went on his way to a flower shop. This task was much simpler.

He was quick to find the flowers he was looking for, a mix of Moonlight Roses, and Dawn Lilies, their glows and colors beautiful. Dapper didn't bother asking for a card, but asked the florist to make the bouquet beautiful, and send them for him. He paid extra to have it done by today. As he was doing so, someone suddenly called out to him.

"My goodness, isn't that Mr. Dapper Dash?" 

Dapper turned, feeling he knew the voice, and when he looked, he saw he did. It was Rarity, element of generosity. Behind her a group of ponies, the elements of harmony, and that little dragon known as Spike. Mentally, Dapper sighed, he wasn't in the mood to deal with the elements today. He didn't hate them, or dislike them, but he found troubles and headaches were never far behind them.

Despite this, Dapper smiled politely and nodded. "How are you, Miss Rarity?"

She walked up to him, smiling brilliantly at him. "Oh I am very well, thank you darling. Now what are you doing here? Picking flowers for your special somepony?"

His smile almost faltered, it didn't, but it did lose some of its energy. "You could say that. They're for my sister."

"Your sister? Oh, are you celebrating Hearth’s Warming with her?" Rarity asked innocently, her eyes reflexively looking around as if expecting to see a pony that could be his sibling.

"No, I'm afraid not. I can't celebrate with her this year, but she does enjoy flowers, so I wanted to send her some." Dapper replied politely, not wanting to go into the details.

Rarity seemed to sense it, and so decided to close the topic. "How very nice of you. So what are you doing this Hearth’s Warming?" 

"I'm working, I am on my way back to the palace to begin cooking dinner." Dapper replied, turning around to quickly pay for the flowers and then walk out of the store so they did not take up room. He gave the rest of the ponies a quick nod in greeting, then continued. "And what about the rest of you, have you come to celebrate in Canterlot?"

Twilight nodded. "Yes, my parents have invited us all to spend it with them. My brother is sadly posted in the west, so I think they wanted me to be home at least." Spike coughed, and Twilight giggled and rolled her eyes. "Both of us. We were actually thinking about coming by princess Celestia and wishing her and Luna happy Hearth’s Warming."

Dapper found himself smiling a bit more. "I think they would both appreciate that." Then an idea suddenly popped into his mind. "You know what? Do you think you guys could help me with something?" They all looked at one another, then at him expectantly. 





17:29 PM.

"It seems I’ve won, again." Celestia smiled, moving the chips closer to herself.

Luna groaned, pushing her cards to the side. Celestia had tried to keep her company for hours now, coming up with all sorts of ways to enjoy the day. It had started off well enough, they had made lunch together, a task they had negotiated with their butler Dapper Dash to be allowed to do.

He had stated he liked the palace to still be standing when Hearth’s Warming was over, and only if they made something that did not require any form of heat to make would he agree to let them make their own lunch. They had agreed, and so had their fun trying to make salads and sandwiches. After that, it had been all sorts of attempts to pass the time. 

Most of those attempts were board games, book reading, and other things that didn't help the awkward mood. Celestia was trying so hard, and so too was Luna, but fact was, they could not recapture the magic of Hearth’s Warming from past times like nothing had changed. 

It was futile..

"So you have, sister, I congratulate you.." 

Celestia frowned. "Come now Luna, I know that it isn't like it used to, but we could-"

"No." Luna cut in, not wanting Celestia to keep trying. "It's okay, sister. We, I, appreciate you trying to make this day special for me. Perhaps I am simply not ready, perhaps it is too early.."

"Luna.." Celestia's frown deepened, she didn't like seeing her like this. "We should try to enjoy our first Hearth's Warming Eve together."

"I know, but it is futile to pretend nothing has changed." She sighed. "I just miss the old times, this day used to be so special for us, so magical. Now, now it feels like we are more alone."

There was silence between them again. Celestia wondered if she was trying too hard, that maybe her attempts did nothing but hammer home the fact she had been away, and their friends were gone, and so no grand celebration could be held. Luna in turn felt bad for letting her sister down, for making her efforts go to waste. She just couldn't pretend to enjoy this.

Just as Celestia was about to say something, Dapper knocked on the door. "Oh.." Celestia looked to the old clock on the wall. "It seems dinner has come a bit early." She looked at the door and called. "Yes?"

Dapper entered and bowed his head. "Your majesties. Dinner is ready and." He stopped himself, looking them over. "Majesties, tonight is a special night, you should be dressed for the occasion." Both sisters looked at him a bit confused. Dapper simply shrugged, almost dramatically. "Oh well, there is no time, I suppose we must use your normal royal attire."

"Dapper." Luna interjected. "It is just a private dinner, there is no need to wear our regalia, or our tiaras."

"I beg to differ." Dapper replied, an almost playful look in his eyes as he continued. "Tonight is important, I'm afraid I must insist." He vanished from sight for a moment, then came back in, pushing a wooden trolley into the room. Their regalia, tiaras, and shoes were on it. "I shall wait for you out here." 

Before either of them could have any say in the matter, he left and closed the door. Celestia looked to her sister. "That was strange, Dapper seems to be acting a bit.."

"Cheeky." Luna huffed.

"Not the word I would have used, but I think it is clear he is up to something." The solar princess stood, then levitated the trolley closer. "Well, for his sake I think we should humor him for now."

"Maybe he just likes seeing us in our royal attire." Luna suggested with a slight giggle, but then the idea became stuck, and both of the royal sisters blushed.

The two then did as asked without another word between them. Soon enough they trotted outside where Dapper was waiting, holding a stoic expression. He looked them both over, his eyes expecting them from hoof to horn, making them feel strangely exposed, but not in a bad way. 

"Very good." He said, giving his approval with a single nod. "Follow me, please."

Dapper turned around, not speaking another word as he started to trot down the hallway. Both sisters followed, both not understanding why Dapper was making such a big deal out of a simple dinner in their private dining room. Only, they soon realized he wasn't taking them to the dining room, he was turning down another corridor, down one of the grand staircases. They followed still, and held back any notion of asking where he was taking them. Their curiosity was only growing, and they both wondered what the stallion had planned.

Soon enough it became clear where he was taking them, although they were not there yet, Celestia knew the layout of their palace well enough to know they were arriving at the large ballroom. Did he expect them to have dinner in that room alone? Or did he plan for them to eat there so he could surprise them with some piano music?

As Celestia had expected, Dapper stopped in front of the large door, but made no movement to open it. "Your majesties, if you would." He took a few steps back, bowing as he gestured to the door with his hoof, inviting them to open it instead of him.

The sisters eyed him, then glanced at one another. What he had planned, they had no idea, but their curiosity was so great now they would not be able to resist now, or waste time with questions. Instead they both moved up to the large double doors, not a word spoken to him or to each other.

Luna's magic took a hold of the right double door, while Celestia's took a hold of the left. Then as one, they stepped forward, letting their magic open the doors for them.


"Happy Hearth's Warming!!"


A wave of loud greetings met the two royals, making them both jump as they spotted the ponies inside. It was the elements of harmony and Spike, all of them smiling and dressed up to celebrate Hearth's Warming Eve with them. Both sisters were surprised to see them, but then they saw the ballroom. It was decorated from floor to ceiling, a large tree in the middle, presents under it, a long table with delicious looking food, and a table with all sorts of baked goods.

"What, what is going on?" Celestia asked as they both trotted farther inside, their eyes looking around before settling on Celestia's student. "Twilight? I thought you would be spending Hearth’s Warming with your family?"

Twilight nodded. "We all had planned to." 

Then from the side, came trotting another group of ponies. Celestia and Luna looked even more surprised now seeing who it was. The group consisted of Twilight's parents, Applejack's brother, Granny, and Apple Bloom. Rartiy's parents, along with Sweetie Belle, and lastly Scootaloo. Of course, Rainbow, Fluttershy, and Pinkie Pie's families were not there, but that was to be expected as they lived farther away.

Twilight continued. "We had all planned to celebrate together this year."

"But then Dapper Dash told us you were spending your Hearth’s Warming Eve alone." Applejack continued before all the ponies made a quick bow.

The sisters looked behind them, seeing Dapper standing by the door, trying his best to look stoic and professional. Though with all the eyes suddenly on him, he could not hide his tiny smile, or his blushing.

"We helped with the decorations!" Pinkie exclaimed, bouncing around near the group of ponies she meant. "Me, Fluttershy, Rainbow Dash, Scootaloo, Sweetie Belle, and Apple Bloom!"

"Me and Big Mac got the tree hauled in here." Said Applejack. 

"Eeeyup."

Twilight Velvet stepped forward with Granny Smith. "We helped Dapper Dash with the food and pasties."

"Darn tootin!"

"The rest of us got everything set up, along with getting all the presents." Rarity finished.

"It was all going to be a surprise!" Apple Bloom cheered, along with her two friends.

"Were you surprised!?" Asked Scootaloo, then looked to her flank. "Awww, no cutie mark in surprise parties.."

Celestia smiled, amazed at the fast and hard work these ponies had done for them. "I don't know what to say, this is astounding, and so kind of all of you."

"Shucks princess." Applejack said, a little embarrassed. "It isn't really us you need to thank."

Fluttershy nodded. "That's right."

"If you want to thank anypony." Rainbow Dash smirked, flying a little higher as she spoke, then pointed behind them. "Then it should be that guy."

Dapper once again felt the two Alicorns  eyes on him. He gulped, knowing full well he might have crossed a line. "I was merely thinking that-Whaa!" Before he could finish, he felt himself getting pulled forward by Luna's magic. For a split second he expected to be banished to the Everfree, but instead found himself in a big hug. "H-huh?"

Celestia smiled, seeing Luna really thankful, so lost for words she couldn't do anything else but show her appreciation through a hug. Celestia could only agree, no words would do it justice, and so she joined the hug, pressing their butler in between them.

If it was possible for a pony to change color, then Dapper would have turned as red as Applejack's brother right there and then. It did not help they had an audience who were all chuckling and giggling at them. After a full on 10 seconds hug, Dapper managed to get free.

"Uhm, please enjoy, and, Happy Hearth’s Warming my ladies." 

Dapper said, bowing his head to them, then turned to the black piano. Sitting down, he started playing a song they all knew. All of them trotted closer, started to sing, filling the ballroom with lovely music and happiness, signaling the start of the best Hearth’s Warming Eve ever!





21:23 PM

"HUZZAH!" Luna cheered, clapping her hooves together. "I won the kingdom of Ludo!" She exclaimed happily.

So far the evening had been quite entertaining, even Dapper had to admit that. First they sang, then there was dinner. They all talked, shared stories, and joked. Dapper did not share much, he was more happy about letting other ponies talk about themselves, and he had to come to terms with that the elements were more enjoyable than he had given them credit for.

Rainbow Dash enjoyed the apple cider with Big Mac, both of them trying to outdo the other. Rainbow seemed to be losing, because at some point she had started to flirt with the red stallion, making him look even redder after she whispered something in his ear nopony else heard.

The cutie mark crusaders, they had run around, played with their new toys, played games, and all around made the party more enjoyable. Dapper found them cute, and he could not help but partake when they asked him to play a few games of One Hoof, a card game they had invented.

Every pony seemed to have a really good time, and most importantly for Dapper, Luna seemed to have a good time. Her whole being radiated with happiness. Celestia too seemed to enjoy herself a great deal, her and Luna even seemed much closer than before. They laughed, hugged, and seemed to blossom now that the more formal air had been lost. Here and now, they were all friends, no royals or anything.

Even so, Dapper still maintained a certain distance. He didn't reject the party, or did not partake, but he was a little more closed off than everypony else. An older mare named Granny Smith however did make him eat three different kinds of apple pies, and he found himself asking for the recipe more than once that evening.

All in all, the evening was a success, and Pinkie on more than one occasion thanked him, for what he was not sure, but she had a knowing look about her. He wasn't sure what exactly she thought she knew, but she was happy so he did not think about it anymore than that.

Snacks were eaten, songs were sung, and stories told. They got closer and closer to midnight, and by that point the three fillies had collapsed in a bundle near the mountain of wrapping paper. The festivities were still ongoing, but more calm now. Dapper served coffee and brandy, and it was that time of every Hearth’s Warming Eve when the foals have calmed, and the adults talk about this and that.

Every pony was here and enjoying the calm, well, except for Rainbow and Big Mac, Dapper hadn't seen them for half an hour. He assumed, perhaps by choice, that they had gone out for air and not anything else. Dapper had the same mindset by now, he was tired, but satisfied. 

He left the ballroom by one of the doors that led out to the balcony. The air was cold, but he still felt the heat from the brandy radiating throughout his body, so it felt nice being outside and cooled down. He trotted to the stone railing, looking out across Canterlot and the amazing view before him.

There were no clouds, only a sea of stars that stretched on as far as the eye could see. Now alone, he reached into his blazer for his bottle of pills. Alcohol helped with the pain, but he wanted to sleep pain free tonight, so after a quick glance around to make sure he was alone, he swallowed one.

"Ahh..." He sighed, feeling it take effect quickly. Closing his eyes, he took a few deep breaths and felt the pain slowly vanish. It was still there, but it no longer bothered him.

"Enjoying the quiet?"

A voice asked, and Dapper turned around in surprise, only to find both princesses standing there. "Uhm, your majesties..?"

"We wanted to thank you," said Luna. "This night has been wonderful."

"And I think we both needed this," admitted Celestia, nodding at her sister's words. "You didn't have to do this, Dapper."

"You don't have to show kindness because you have to. My job is to look after you." Dapper replied. "But even if I was not your butler, I would want you to be happy, both of you."

Luna eyed her sister, who in turn gave her a nod. Then they both trotted closer, making Dapper's heart flutter a bit, he knew not why he was suddenly feeling so nervous. They stood on each side, then leaned their heads down so they could whisper in his ears, then do something he would never have expected.


"Happy Hearth’s Warming. "