Stratus stepped out of the elevator onto the newsroom floor, the large room bustling with activity. Ponies were typing away on their computers, writing up the day's reports for the various broadcasts throughout the day. Multiple television monitors suspended above the ceiling showed live cameras of the city, one was showing a replay of a Pipp Petals livestream, and another had the broadcast feed from ZBS. It was the same as it was everyday. A relatively easy job, all things considered. Other than an occasional fire or malfunction of one of the city's public elevators, there really wasn't much to report in terms of breaking news. The last major incident had been a few weeks ago when a pair of young pegasus colts got stuck on the mountainside while exploring beyond the city. Now, if their wings were working, that wouldn't really be a problem, but since only the royals can fly, a rescue misson had to take place. Stratus could remember watching the live report as the two colts were pulled up to safety. Now the guards had increased patrols on the outer edge of the city to spot any ponies in need of assistance quicker, and the city council was debating adding safety rails to the edge of the outer trail to prevent future accidents.
Stratus didn't reflect on this for long, he had a very busy day ahead of him. But before he got to any of that, he needed coffee. Stratus walked over to the break room just in time to see the two hosts of the morning show, Star Chaser and Blossom Petal, come out of the upstairs studio. The two were the face of Zephyr Height's mornings, hosting the popular “Wake Up ZH!” show that reported on the previous day's news, and featured upbeat entertainment and various guests. As Stratus made his way to the studio's popular coffee dispenser, Star Chaser trotted over and smiled his trademark smile at Stratus.
“There's the big man, what's up Stratus? Excited for tonight?” Star said in a cheerful voice, still having his energy from being on camera. Stratus nodded and gave a slight yawn.
“Yeah, I'm still waking up. I don't know how you two are able to get up so early for the morning show.”
“Well, I'll just say coffee is your best friend when you work the morning shift.” The two ponies chuckled as the dispenser started pouring Stratus' cup. Stratus got a whiff of the fresh coffee and seemed more awake from the smell alone.
“So, what's on the rundown today, double S? I bet you're super busy today since you've got hosting duties for the celebration.”
Stratus nodded as he took a sip of the coffee. “Oh yeah, it's gonna be a long day. I still need to check my email for the exact schedule, but I know I got some live shots for the mid-day show, an interview with Pipp Petals, the rehearsal, and the broadcast tonight.” He sighed. “Long day, but it's gonna be tons of fun.”
“Well hey, best of luck tonight!” Star said as he grabbed a bag of chips out of a drawer. “I know you'll put on a great show for all of ZH.”
“Thanks, Star. You have a good day.” Star nodded and trotted out of the breakroom. Stratus picked up his coffee and walked over to his desk in the newsroom. It wasn't anything fancy, just a cubicle in the middle of the newsroom floor, but it was good enough for him. Sitting down at his desk, he turned on his computer and logged in. While it loaded, he took the time to admire some of his cubicle decorations. There was a picture of his first day on the job, a copy of his diploma from UNZ, and even a signed photo from his first interview with Pipp. “Stratus, it was great meeting you. Hope to have more interviews with you! - Pipp” was written in a glittery marker on the back of the picture. He had done quite a few interviews with the princess since then, and they were good friends. Noticing that his computer had finished powering up, he opened his email and found the day's schedule.
RC Schedule - FINAL
From: Golden Feather (GFeather@zbsnews.eq)
Good morning Stratus,
Attached is your final schedule for the royal celebration. If there’s any changes I’ll be sure to let you know ASAP. Have fun tonight!
- Golden Feather
Director, Special Event Coverage
11:00am - Liveshot from castle exterior for midday show (Segments A1, C4)1:30pm - Interview w/ Pipp - Castle interview room (Call time 1:15)3:00pm - Ceremony Dress Rehearsal5:30pm - Mane & Makeup6:00pm - Red Carpet Preshow (Dazzle Feather hosting)6:30pm - Call time to broadcast position7:00pm - Ceremony Start8:50pm (estimated) - Fireworks Finale
Taking another sip of his coffee, Stratus checked the clock on his desktop. 9:23am, still enough time to relax for a bit. He sits back in his office chair and opens HoofTube. As an entertainment reporter, he’s one of the few ponies that gets paid to watch memes and other videos online to research for stories. Though today, he was just passing the time until he needed to head to the castle.
try not to laugh compilation
Stratus sat back and enjoyed the memes.