Taking care of a whole kingdom can be hard, teaching/learning how to act in the modern times is harder. Keeping up with Twilight is tiring, dealing with their nephew is worse. Thank Faust for their new butler.
It takes a certain kind of pony to become a personal servant to the princesses. One must have patience, grace, a clever head, and be a problem solver.
Dapper Dash is one such pony.
Although skeptical about the idea of having a personal butler, Dapper Dash soon proves he is anything but an ordinary butler. While most ponies would be rattled or nervous around Celestia and Luna, he seems to be calm, and even managing to keep up with them.
He's a true gentlecolt, and not only that, he is quite the learned stallion, impressing even princesses. Clearly he is more than than he seems, but not much is known about him. With the drama around the palace it may be good to have an ally that can think on his hooves.
After all, a butler is there to make life easier for their charges.
Big thanks to Hoodwinked MCShelster for the amazing cover art! Really love how it turned out! ^^
The sound filled the otherwise silent room. That, and the quiet hiss of tea being poured into a cup- near silence contrasted by an aroma that quickly spread into something pleasant and calming. Still no word was spoken in the tiny office, a Pegasus stallion let the tea set and took a single step back.
An older unicorn stallion sat behind a large wooden desk, watching the Pegasus's every move, listening to every small noise that might be considered disturbing. Other than the clock no sound could be heard. The unicorn slowly levitated the cup to his lips and took a careful and calculated sip.
He still looked to the Pegasus, watching for any sort of reaction, but he simply stood with a stoic and yet relaxed expression. Either the stallion was well trained or he was really arrogant. Then again both could be true. Normally every pony who walked into this office would be nervous and, no matter how much self control they had, they would always reveal something to him.
The Unicorn had learned to read ponies, after 45 years in service to the crown, not just the ones he served but the staff working with him. He demanded perfection and those who applied for work in the palace knew it all too well which meant they would all be nervous. How they handled it was the real test. He would normally be able to tell who would give too much away and who could at least learn to keep themselves professional. No matter how much self control they had, they would always reveal something to him.
However, in all his years, the Unicorn had never met a stallion he could not read. There was no trace of nervousness on the Pegasus’ face, his stance, or his speech- he was completely calm and collected. Even the tea he had just prepared as a test was made to perfection, and the taste exceeded the old stallion’s own standards. The Unicorn knew nothing of this fellow, yet he was impressed. His nephew had recommended him though, despite his love for his nephew, he had expected some over ambitious waiter. Certainly not this.
Slowly putting the cup back on the tiny plate, the elderly stallion looked to the much younger Pegasus who was the perfect picture of calm. He was about the same age as the old stallion had been when he’d first started work as a server. Lots of potential, not a fault to be spotted on that armor of calmness... well, almost nothing.
"What happened to your wing?"
It didn't look right, not ugly other than a few missing feathers, but like something seemed off. There was no crack in that armor of calm, instead the Pegasus simply answered.
"An accident, sir, several years ago."
"Can you fly?"
"Not without considerable pain, sir."
Still no visible reaction, though the old stallion had lived long enough to know it was probably a sensitive subject. The lad had done more than enough to impress him, it was still ultimately up to the princesses if they wanted to keep him on. He gestured to the chair across from him.
"Have a seat."
"Thank you, sir."
As the stallion sat down, the old unicorn sipped a bit of his tea and reluctantly let out a relaxed sigh of enjoyment. When the Pegasus seated himself, the Unicorn levitated the cup back onto the plate. "You come highly recommended, and you're clearly quite skilled. But to work at the royal palace is a whole new game. Here we expect nothing less than perfection. You must remain invisible at all times, do you understand?"
"Perfectly."
"Being a butler here requires focus- her majesty does not require some pony to babysit her, you are simply here to make life easier for her. You will be the first pony she sees when she wakes, and the last one before she goes to bed. You see nothing, you hear nothing when it comes to their personal lives or politics. You are here to serve." He stopped, checking if the applicant was in any way deterred. When he saw no sign, he leaned back in his chair. "So, Mr. Dapper Dash, any questions?"
A small smile graced the stallion's face. "When do I start?"
Celestia's day started as usual with her raising the sun, and her sister lowering the moon. Hereafter she would take a few moments getting ready before going to an early breakfast, something she could enjoy with her dear sister.
Breakfast had become far more enjoyable since Luna had come back, she had someone to talk to, even though her sister could be quite exhausted, depending on what kind of night it had been. There were nights when the nightmares had been many, or at least difficult, which always left her younger sister exhausted.
It wasn't always easy, but Celestia enjoyed what little time she could have with her before her day began. Personal affairs could be complicated, family matters and such, dealing with her nephew, dealing with her students and her friends. While always glad to help, it was hard to fit everything together as she also had a country to lead, though it had gotten easier with Luna back.
Their mornings would often be alone in their small private dining room, of course their food would be brought up, but otherwise they would be quite alone, only a bell would ring for the staff when needed. This time however, as the magic of the guards stationed outside the room opened the doors, she was met with an unfamiliar sight.
A Pegasus was standing beside a small trolley, he smiled at her, although a small smile, it was pleasant and charming. He had a light gray coat, a black mane and tail, and ice blue eyes. He wore a white shirt, a black vest and blazer. Although a bit confused at seeing a new face, Celestia smiled in a greeting. When the doors closed behind her, he bowed his head in respect.
"Good morning your royal highness." He said, his voice smooth like velvet.
"Good morning, I do not believe we have met?"
Looking back up again, the stallion inclined his head. "Indeed not ma'am, allow me to introduce myself, I am Dapper Dash, I was recently hired as your highness's personal butler."
If not from years of political practice she would have let her smile crack a bit, but she was too well used to keeping on a certain facade even when confronted with bad news. "I see." She said in a polite tone, though rather wished she wasn't having this forced upon her by her head butler, who would soon be retiring.
Had he really chosen such a young pony for the job? She had never laid eyes on him before, neither did she know why he was here and her head butler was not. Normally he would be the one introducing new staff to her. A tiny chuckle escaped Dapper Dash, it was small, almost unheard, but it was there.
"Do you find something amusing Mr Dash?" Celestia asked calmly, but still with a hint of sternness. Normally that would make ponies stand to attention in respect, and yet Dash's amusement just seemed to grow into a small smile. He inclined his head, showing he meant no disrespect.
"I beg your pardon ma'am," said Dash, then turned and pulled out a chair for her. "But if you don't mind me saying so, it is well known throughout the palace that you do not wish to have a personal butler."
Celestia blushed slightly out of embarrassment that her views on it was so well known, and that Dash had been aware of them before coming to work. Nevertheless, she took a seat and let him work. "I see, but why are you here so early?"
"Oh, just getting a lay of the land," said Dash while pushing the little trolley closer. "I want to get a feel of how everything works, how you work, ma'am." Using a mix of his hooves and wings, he elegantly moved a teacup in front of her, then placed a tea strainer across the cup with a calculated bunch of tea leaves.
Celestia watched as he used a mix of his hooves and wings to move whatever he needed about. She was used to seeing unicorns serve her, very few ponies could elegantly serve her without magic, and even then the movements were not as smooth and swift, Dapper Dash seemed to excel at this though. Carefully, and very controlled, he poured the hot water through the strainer, letting the water mix with the leafs and turn it into tea.
A pleasant scent quickly came from the cup, it was not too strong, but not too mild either, the water took on a yellow or orange color. "Cream and sugar?" Dash offered, and it took a moment for Celestia to register the question, she was still in a bit of awe to see a non magic user use his hooves and wings so smoothly.
"Ma'am?"
"Oh, yes thank you Mr Dash."
"Think nothing of it," he replied with another small smile as he put just a little sugar and a little milk, then removed the strainer to use the tea. "Five times clockwise, two times counterclockwise," Dapper said, then removed the spoon.
He removed himself and the trolley away from Celestia so as to give her some room to enjoy her morning tea. Celestia looked to her cup, almost feeling a little babied, if not disappointed. He had made the tea right in front of her, she hadn't even touched it, not even with her magic. Second, she wanted CREAM, she loved cream, she loved sweet things, Dapper Dash seemed to have given her the bare minimum. Well, she would give this tea a try, but if it came to it, then she would add more!
Though as soon as the cup came to her lips, smelling that sweet scent of tea, sugar and cream, as soon as the tea reached her tongue her eyes widened. It was too hard to describe, she would have to spend hours to find the right words if she needed to. The balance of the sharpness of the tea, mixed with the gentle blanket of cream and sugar, it exploded in her mouth like fireworks of flavor.
Quickly, yet controlled, she put the cup down, put a napkin to her lips and took a moment to regain control of herself. "Mr Dash.."
"Yes ma'am?" Dapper asked as he stepped forward.
"Your tea is astounding."
Dapper Dash inclined his head, "thank you ma'am."
Celestia was definitely impressed, though it was by then she noticed something odd about Dapper, he didn't have a cutie mark. How could this be? He seemed so skilled, strange he didn't have a cutie mark for serving, making tea, or something of that nature. She didn't want to mention it, though nothing to be ashamed of, she knew full well it could be a sensitive subject.
"How did you mak-" The doors opened once again, cutting off Celestia. Looking over, she spotted a very tired looking Luna. "Ah, Lulu, good morning."
"Good morning sister.." She mumbled, then stopped as she spotted Dapper Dash. "And who is this?"
"This is Mr Dapper Dash, he is our personal butler."
Dash bowed. "At your service, your royal highness."
Luna raised an eyebrow, it was the first time she had heard about a new personal butler. Though he was not without his charm, Luna didn't mind it all, but she was far too tired to really express it. "I'm tired, and I'm hungry.. Mr Dash, bring me some coffee."
"Yes ma'am," he replied and started to make his way to the trolley. "Although if I may be so bold to make a suggestion?" Luna eyed him, she was not one for having her black coffee questioned in the morning, or having made changes. She inclined her head however, interested to see what this new butler would suggest. "I can make you your coffee, a gift from the gods no doubt, but I think her highness would sleep better at night with a more soothing drink." Trotting over to the trolley, he once again moved his wings and hooves in a masterful display of skill.
A delicious scent soon caught the princesses attention, and Dapper Dash turned around and placed a cup of hot cocoa, whipped cream, cut chocolate, and coffee. "It's a special blend of mine."
Luna was not opposed to sweet things, though unlike her older sister it wasn't an obsession of hers. She had to admit however it did look rather tasty, Celestia looked interested as well, no surprise there. With nothing to lose Luna decided to take a chance, if it didn't work out she could simply ask for a coffee instead.
Moving the cup to her lip she took a sip. "Mmm.." Closing her eyes she let the warm coco move down her tongue, enjoying every little sensation the chocolate provided. The hot drink warmed her up, relaxed her, it felt so good after a long night of working with nightmares. Smiling, she put the cup down and wiped her mouth with a napkin. "Acceptable.." She said with a sort of forced self control. "Though I expect black coffee when I awake later on."
Dapper Dash inclined his head. "Of course ma'am, I'm glad the drink pleased you."
A side door to the servant way opened up, and trotting in was a few maids pushing more trolleys, though these ones were filled with food. The maids looked at Dapper Dash in momentarily confusion, but quickly regained their composure. Then in walked Sir Hoofington, the head butler, the old unicorn who had hired Dapper Dash just the other day.
"Good morning your majesties." Hoofington said with his usual calm outlook, although Celestia could clearly see he was rather rattled that Dapper Dash was here and had even served them, clearly without his knowledge. "Mr Dash, I was under the impression we would introduce you to their royal highness together."
Dapper Dash gave him a polite nod. "Forgive me sir, I decided to use my initiative and meet them myself with some morning refreshments. I was under the impression the princesses values that."
"It is quite alright Hoofington, a bit bold I'll admit, but he is quite right." Celestia said, gaining both stallions attention. "That being said Mr Dash, I'll appreciate it if you follow Hoofington's advice, he has many years of experience."
Dapper inclined his head again. "Of course ma'am, I meant no disrespect."
Hoofington eyed the young stallion, mentally he shook his head, but he could not help but feel a little proud that he was able to think for himself, see the need and fulfill it before his charges knew they had it. Still he should have waited, but that was a conversation for later.
Turning to Celestia, Hoofington trotted over as she was being served. "A message for you ma'am, your nephew broke a priceless mirror at the Golden Pony Club yesterday evening, they require compensation."
Luna groaned. "Celestia, when are we going to have a talk with our dear nephew? He seems to do nothing productive, throws money out the window and settles for trivialities."
Celestia herself let out an exhausted sigh. Her nephew had been in all kinds of trouble lately, he was kinda spoiled, maybe it was her own fault for not taking care of him better. He lived a life of luxury, hardly with any expectations put on him, and even with a good education he seemed happy to simply go out with his friends and live life like he was at boarding school, no, it was time for him to grow up.
"Pay for the mirror Hoofington, and then send word to my nephew I wish to speak with him. He is to present himself at the palace at his earliest convenience, it's time we had a talk about his future."
"Yes ma'am."
Luna snorted, then laughed a little. "You're too soft Tia. We have tried this before, sister, he will simply refuse to stay. He's like a child, I don't think you're going to change anything within him in the near future." She then smirked, looking over at Dapper. "Say, why don't we send Mr Dash?"
They all looked at her in slight surprise, even Dapper Dash raised an eyebrow. Celestia sighed. "I hardly think that's fair on Dapper Dash Luna, he has no experience with Blueblood."
"Ahem." Dapper cleared his throat. "If I may say so, I do believe I can make the young gentlecolt present himself here by tomorrow morning with his bags packed, if given the time to do so."
Celestia and Luna exchanged glances, then looked back at him. "Are you sure Mr Dash? Our nephew can be quite stubborn."
Dapper nodded. "I do have some experience with the Golden Pony Club, and I think it's possible to get him to see the light."
Luna smirked. "And it will be the perfect opportunity to see what Dapper Dash is made of."
"Quite," he agreed.
"If you can do it, then the job is yours, I think we can all agree on that?" Luna asked, and all seemed to agree, although Celestia still found this trial a little unfair. But Dapper Dash seemed so confident, maybe he could do it. "Then it's settled, Dapper Dash, please bring our nephew to us by breakfast tomorrow. Fly off with you then."
Dash nodded. "I'm afraid flying might be a bit out of the realm of possibility, but I shall strive to meet your expectations. If you will excuse me then." He bowed. "Your majesties." And with that, the young butler left.
Luna frowned, so too did Celestia, it was only now they both noticed his right wing looked off. Not mangled, but it was clear it was damaged. Luna felt a bit bad, but Dapper had already left before she could express her condolence. Sighing, she took another sip of her coco. "This should be interesting."
Dapper made his way down the hall, down the stairs, and finally entered a small bathroom. He looked at himself in the mirror, then slowly raised his bad wing. Now that there was no pony around he allowed himself to relax, feeling the pain of the wing bang into him like a drum.
Letting out a sigh, he reached into one of his inner pockets and pulled out a small bottle. It was the only thing that lessened the pain, though he doubted his employers would be happy knowing he was on strong pain medication. Sighing again, he put a pill in his mouth and swallowed it. Taking a few seconds to relax a bit, he put the bottle back into the pocket and turned towards the door.
The streets of Canterlot were already buzzing with life. With the sun up and breakfast over, ponies around the city were ready to greet the day ahead.
All ponies, except for Prince Blueblood. He didn't hold the title of prince, but it wasn't something he bothered correcting if ponies assumed. While the city was waking up, Blueblood was hiding under his expensive sheets, enjoying the warmth and comforts of his soft bed.
He had been out late again, playing cards, enjoying drinks with his friends and good food, this was the life. His monthly stipend did him well, allowing him to live as he pleased. This was certainly a good life.. Or at least it was supposed to be, if not for that damn knocking on his front door!
Of course his servant would answer the door, so he didn't need to bother by getting up and dealing more damage to his hangover..
Knock knock.
Soon.
Knock knock.
Any second now..
Knock knock
With a groan, Blueblood sat up in his bed, his head still pounding from yesterday. "For goodness sake, Teal Leaf! The door!" Despite his call, no one answered. "Teal Leaf!" Still no response. "Erugh, where is that damn mare." Blueblood growled, finally deciding to get out of bed to find out who was knocking on his door.
"I say, the insolence, the nerve of her not to answer me.." He continued to mumble annoyed as he walked down the hall and towards the front of his house. Here he was, at this insanely early hour of 08:44 AM, answering his own door, what had the world come to?
Getting to the door he quickly pushed it open to see who dared to knock so early in the morning. "What?" He asked, rather impatiently.
"Ah, good morning sir," a well dressed Pegasus greeted him. Before Blueblood could answer, he had already made his way inside. "It's good to see you up and about, have you had breakfast yet sir?"
Blueblood was left at the door, a little baffled a pony would actually just walk in like he was an old friend or owned the place. "Excuse me, who are the bloody hell are you? And what are you doing in my home?" He asked annoyed, though even more annoyed by the fact his maid had not answered the door instead, which meant he had to deal with this riffraff.
Dapper turned around to face him, a small smile gracing his face. "My name is Dapper Dash, personal butler to the royal princesses." That took Blueblood by surprise, why would their butler be here? "Your esteemed aunts want you to come and live with them for a time in Canterlot Palace, your latest escapades worry them."
Blueblood groaned. "Well, you can go back and tell them that I appreciate their worries, I'm no longer a little colt, and I can take care of myself."
Dapper inclined his head. "Clearly, sir." Without another word Dapper turned around and walked into his bedroom.
Blueblood almost growled as he quickly followed. "Now look here!" When he walked in he saw Dapper was making his bed, something Teal Leaf should be doing. "Stop that at once. Teal Leaf!" He called, this time yelling.
"Oh I'm afraid miss Leaf has left your employment this morning." Dapper said calmly, finishing the bed and then moved to pick up the clothes scattered around the floor.
"How do you know that?" Blueblood asked in disbelief. Nopony left Blueblood, it was an honor working for him.
"A note left on the front door sir. She expressed her frustration of working for you, and with some more colorful language, made it clear that she won't be coming back."
Blueblood was not sure if he should be shocked or outraged, how dared she leave him just like that?! And no word of thanks for the many years in his service, typical. For a moment he was tempted to ask what the note said exactly, but on second thought, maybe he was better off not knowing.
Dapper made his way past Blueblood again, bringing him out of his thoughts. "Now look here." Blueblood said, making his voice stern. "I do not know what my aunts expect you to do, but I am far too busy to simply waltz off at their request." Dapper didn't seem to hear him, or at the very least ignore him. This only served to annoy Blueblood more as he followed the annoying butler into the kitchen.
"I shall pack your things for tomorrow sir, your aunts expect you by then, and will have breakfast with you." Dapper explained as he started to make Blueblood a light breakfast.
"Didn't you hear what I just said?"
Dapper looked at him. "Forgive me sir, I thought you were making a joke."
"Whatever would I make a joke of?"
"About you being busy, sir. Tea?"
"Tea? I, uhm.." Taken aback about the sudden question, Blueblood tried to shift mental gears as he had never met a pony who in the politest way possible kept ignoring him and shifted the conversation. "Thank you," he said by reflex, mentally scolding himself for doing so.
Sitting down at the little table, a place he had never sat down for tea or breakfast, Dapper poured him a modest cup. "In any case, your aunts were most insistent, sir. I do not believe their patience is eternal." Blueblood let out a sigh, levitating the cup to his lips and took a sip. Wow, it was very good, though of course he would not let Dapper know that. "You'll be pleased to know that the business of the club mirror has been taken care of sir, I trust you have all your affairs in order for the trip tomorrow?"
Blueblood looked up, then groaned. "Never mind the ugly mirror, I have bigger concerns."
Putting a plate of toast in front of him, Dapper raised an eyebrow. "Oh?"
Somehow the look Dapper Dash gave Blueblood made him see the kind of disapproval Celestia would give him. Almost made him feel uneasy, like he wanted to confess. Still he maintained his dignity and didn't give any of his feelings away, though he did enlighten Dapper.
"I'm afraid I'm in a bit of a pickle, I lost my house you see.."
"I beg your pardon?" Dapper asked, seeming to stand taller, his eyes hardening, but still held an amount of respect for the young master, as much as he could muster anyway.
"Silly thing really, I was having a drink with my friends, at the club you see, and before I know it we are playing cards." Dapper didn't need to hear what happened, he could already imagine it. "To make a long story short, I bet my house against his, and I lost. I am heading to the club today to win it back."
Dapper put some butter and jam on the table. "I assume your friend has the deed to this property then?" Blueblood nodded as he bit down on the toast. "If I may suggest you don't keep such documents on you in the future sir? Might save you a lot of headaches."
"Yes, thank you Dapper. I am aware of that, I do have a brain you know."
Dapper inclined his head. "I'm relieved to hear it sir. In that case, may I suggest you engage said brain more often? You may find that trouble is less likely to come your way if you do."
Blueblood simply looked at the butler, half in shock, the other half in disbelief. Had Dapper just insulted him? It was hard to tell when he kept such a polite and smooth tone in his voice. Before he could ask for it however, Dapper inclined his head again. "I shall go over your apartment now sir, I suggest we leave for the club at lunch time." Without further discussion, Dapper left Blueblood in the kitchen to finish his breakfast.
How dared he? He is fired! Well, if Dapper was working for Blueblood, which he was not. He could try to complain to his aunts, but he could already hear his aunt Luna laugh as soon as he retold what Dapper had suggested to him. Auntie Celestia would probably not think it was important enough and then just start to scold him.
Besides, if he had no house, then he would have no leg to stand on, he would have nowhere to go but the palace. It would only lead to more scolding and lectures. Dreadful, this whole business was simply dreadful. No, like or not, Dapper was right. They needed to go to The Golden Pony and win his deed back, after that he would just have to see where they ended up. Hopefully not the palace.
Later that day Blueblood reluctantly walked with Dapper Dash down the streets of Canterlot. This wasn't something he wanted, but then again it might be a good look if ponies saw he had a personal butler. "Now listen, I am not in the habit of taking orders from," he was about to say a blank flank, but he refrained from doing so, knowing there would be hell to pay if his aunts found out. "My servants."
Dapper simply gave a nod. "Of course not sir, then it is very lucky we are not in that position, sir."
"Meaning?"
"I am not YOUR servant, sir. I work for your aunts, and if I may remind you, they were quite insistent that you come by the palace tomorrow morning."
Blueblood groaned in annoyance. "Then you can leave."
"I'm afraid not, I shall stay until I'm certain you will attend tomorrow's meeting. If nothing else, I'm also here to ensure the deed falls back into the right hooves."
"Fine," growled Blueblood. "At least make yourself useful then.."
"I shall strive to do so sir."
They reached the club, the building itself did not stand out in any way, but it was a social club for young gentlecolts. Here sons of wealthy families would gather, study, have lunches and dinners. Though the study part had been forgotten about, it was a place for the young and privileged to have fun.
At the door stood a tall earth pony, he wore a splendid green coat and a hat, his job was to open the doors for the members of the club, and get them a carriage if they so desired. As soon as he spotted Blueblood he opened the door and gave him a respectful nod. "Welcome back sir."
Blueblood did not answer, but Dapper gave the polite pony a knowing look of compassion, and seeing a fellow server he gave one back. As soon as Dapper stepped inside, he was met with a cascade of laughter and noise. Young stallions were all around, at the bar, eating, playing cards, smoking, tossing cards into a hat, or even having small magical duels.
It was chaos, absolute chaos, Dapper had a mind to toss all the young lads out, but stopped himself from doing so. While this was not the behavior expected of young gentlecolts, this was however the place of his task, so he would have to endure it.
Leaning in, Blueblood started to whisper. "Now, this proper place for the elite Dapper, please bear that in mind."
Dapper looked around the chaos around them, then sighed mentally. "I shall try, sir."
"Blueblood!" Somepony called.
Looking over, Blueblood smiled and trotted towards the stallion who had called. "Ah, Doodle, just the pony I was looking for."
Doodle grinned. "Oh, you want your deed back? Sorry, you know the rules of the club, you cannot request a rematch before the month is out."
"But I-"
"Then if you don't mind, I'd like to challenge you for that deed." Dapper interrupted, trotting up to them.
Doodle raised an eyebrow. "I'm sorry, who are you?"
"This," Blueblood sighed. "Is my butler."
"Dapper Dash, at your service, sir."
"Well, Mr Dash, you may not know the rules of our esteemed club, but only members can challenge other members." Doodle didn't seem too impressed, more amused that a mere butler would assume he could challenge him.
Dapper simply gave Doodle one of those small smiles he was so good at. "You need not worry about that, it just so happens I am a member of the Golden Pony." That took Blueblood and Doodle by surprise, none of them had ever seen him here before. Even if he was a member, why was he working as a butler??
Doodle looked almost offended. "I don't believe you."
"You can ask for the member registry if you so wish, and once you have confirmed it I would like a formal apology for questioning my membership, and that deed." Dapper said, just as calm and cool as he always was.
Doodle bit his lip, then nodded. "Alright then, you want the deed, but what do I get in exchange?"
"My resignation from this club."
That was no small matter, at least not to them. To be a member of this club was very exclusive, one simply did not hand in one's membership, it was unthinkable. But if Dapper was a member, then Doodle would love to see him hoof in his resignation.
"Alright then, you got a deal. Let's play."
"Very good sir." Dapper said as they both found a place to sit.
Blueblood could not interfere, if it was true Dapper was a member then he had no right to stop him. He didn't care about Dapper's membership, obviously, but he did care about that deed. Leaning in, he whispered. "You better know what you're doing, I want my house."
Dapper nodded. "Do not worry sir, the deed will be in the right hooves once this game is over."
Blueblood made a face, but nodded in reluctant acceptance. "You better be right."
The two ponies sat down at a green fabric gambling table, Doodle was pretty confident. Even if Dapper was a member, he had not been in here enough to learn how to play well. Doodle was one of the best card players at the club, which was why he had the deed to the house after all.
The cards were dealt, and Dapper picked up his cards and fanned them out. The first sign of trouble for Doodle came in the form he could not read Dapper. He seemed amazingly neutral, giving no reaction to what kind of cards he may have. Doodle would just have to crush him before he got too good a foundation.
Dapper placed the first card, not a major threat to Doodle, a laughable attack. Snorting, Doodle laid down his own card, locking Dapper's card in place. He smirked, then looked to Dapper, he still had no real reaction. The lack of which annoyed Doodle, part of the fun was to see one's opponent sweat and get nervous, Dapper seemed completely unaffected, and kept doing so as he laid card after card on the table.
Well, doodle would just have to show this upstart what a real member of the Golden Pony could do. The game dragged on, Dapper kept attacking, deflecting, avoiding any major confrontation. Doodle figured he was just buying time, hoping to get a better set of cards. Doodle tried several times bringing them to a battle where they would have to show all their cards, but Dapper kept avoiding him.
Finally Doodle managed to corner him, smirking as he looked to Dapper. "War." He said, announcing the battle about to ensue.
Dapper inclined his head. "Challenge." He replied, accepting the outcome. Doodle laid all his cards on the table, then leaned back in his chair with a grin. He expected Dapper to finally show a reaction, and he was right. Only, it wasn't the reaction he had counted on. A small smile appeared on Dapper's face.
He laid out his cards just as Doodle had done it, and as soon as he saw it, he realized his mistakes. Eyes widening he sat up, looking at the game with new eyes. Dapper had been playing him from the very start! All his moves had been meant to test Doodle's abilities, then as he learned them he had guided his every move! This was not war, it wasn't even a battle, Dapper had managed to set up their cards so no matter what he tried it would lead to a total and complete annihilation.
Doodle sighed, he had no choice but to call it. "Surrender.."
Dapper simply nodded. "It was an interesting game." Dapper said. "You have talent, be sure of that." Rising, Dapper reached for the deed, but Doodle placed a hoof over it.
"I demand a rematch."
"Sir." Dapper said in a patient and understanding tone. "You have to wait for the end of the month before you can challenge me for the deed again, and I'm sorry to inform you, but I do not think I will step inside this establishment again." Doodle sighed, he knew he was right. He could try to go to the committee, but it would be no use, Dapper had won and it was not up to Doodle to be a proper gentlecolt and accept the outcome. He removed his hoof, and Dapper inclined his head. "Thank you sir."
Dapper placed the deed inside his inner pocket of his blazer and started to trot out with a dumbfounded Blueblood following. "That was amazing, I am not even sure what happened." He admitted, then smiled. "Dapper Dash you are a marvel."
"Thank you sir."
Making their way outside, Blueblood turned to Dapper with an expecting smile. "You did a good job Dapper Dash, I'm sorry for doubting your skills. Now, please give me the deed."
"I'm sorry sir." Dapper said calmly. "But I'm afraid I will have to keep the deed for now."
Blueblood frowned. "Excuse me?"
"Forgive my methods sir, but I shall keep the deed until your stay at the palace is over."
"What? You can't do that!"
Dapper shrugged. "On the contrary, I won the deed, the house is mine. You can of course take it up with your aunts, but then you would have to explain how you lost the deed to begin with."
"This is blackmail, I can sue you!"
Dapper inclined his head. "You can sir, but what kind of reputation would that leave at the club? You certainly wouldn't be seen as a gentlecolt even if they would let you stay." Dapper then smiled a little. "I look forward to seeing you at the palace tomorrow morning, sir."
And without another word, Dapper turned and trotted away. leaving Blueblood not only outraged, but outmatched as well. When he came home, he found several suitcases already neatly packed, it was then that he understood Dapper had been planning this from the very moment he leaned about the deed.
He wasn't sure if he should be outraged or impressed, in any case it was quite clear he was no ordinary butler..
This was unreal, it was amazing, it was nothing less than a miracle.
Celestia could hardly believe her eyes as right there in front of her sat her nephew, drinking tea, not looking angry or annoyed but just sitting there politely. He had done it, somehow Dapper Dash had actually managed to get her lazy nephew to the palace at the time they had agreed.
Luna too was amazed, though somewhat relieved that Dapper had succeeded, it meant he got the job as their personal butler. She had warmed up to him as she had an amazing sleep and felt well rested and ready for her duties with energy to spare. Even right now she wasn't as moody as she usually was.
Like always Dapper's inner thoughts were impossible to read, he was the perfect picture of calmness as he poured Celestia her hot chocolate even though she had not asked for it. As if sensing her question he looked at her with a little smirk. "I saw how you admired lady Luna's drink, I imagined you wanted to taste it for yourself. Was I wrong?"
Quickly she shook her head. "Oh no, not at all Dapper, thank you."
"Of course ma'am." Dapper replied and took a step back. "Will that be all for now?"
"Yes, thank you Dapper," said Celestia. "If you would leave us for a private family meeting that would be good of you. I'm sure you like to get organized as well."
Dapper inclined his head. "Indeed ma'am. Then if you will excuse me, I will get settled." With a bow Dapper turned around and made his way to the service entrance. It was a network of corridors that worked as shortcuts for the servants, and also kept some of them out of the way of guests when bigger events were held.
With no one to see him in here, Dapper let out a small sigh, finally relaxing his stance. The pain of his wing started to feel worse, which meant it was medication time. Reaching into his inner pocket of his blazer he pulled out his bottle and swallowed two pills. Closing his eyes he felt the medicine take effect only a few seconds after and he let out a relieved sigh.
With his pain subdued, at least for now, he made his way down the halls and down to the kitchen area. Like always it was a busy, yet very organized place. There were high standards here, maybe the highest in the land. Ponies moved to get today's food ready, prepping their stations, cleaning others, taking care of dishes and much more.
There were a pony for every task here, all of them experts in their fields. Bakers, cooks, dishwashers, cleaners, specially trained cooks sous chefs and the head chef. It could be a little intimidating if you were a new staffer who were just starting out, even Dapper felt it.
"Hold your head high, don't ever let them see what is behind your eyes. Always be the perfect picture of calmness and control." He thought to himself and did just that. To be a good butler you needed to know everything and every pony. It would take time before he was completely up to speed with it all, but until then he had time to understand this massive organization that was the royal palace.
Calmly he trotted farther into the kitchen, inspecting everything. Though they continued to work, Dapper could feel them watching him. Most of them were watching out of nervousness, after all, he was the head butler now, the personal butler to the princesses themselves. Like it or not, he could either make or break your career.
Those who did not get nervous were watching him with slight disdain. Dapper knew why, he had come out of nowhere and just taken the job as head butler, he had moved up the ranks, passing every pony in here. Not that they wished to be a butler, but they wished to be the head of their fields, be the princesses personal chefs, baker, heck, personal anything, because it meant being close to them, and thus close to power.
Nobles could pretend they were close to the power that wielded this land, but those who truly knew them were their servers, that was a simple fact. Dapper was well aware some was just hoping for him to fail, others to take his place. Dapper was prepared for that, he knew because of his wing and because of his lack of cutie mark they would underestimate him. In time they would learn not to.
"Mr. Dash?" An elegant yet stern female voice spoke.
"Hm?" Dapper turned to find a maid looking at him. "Yes?"
"Please, step this way." Without introducing herself or any other courtesy she started walking away. Dapper knew he should stop her and demand to know who she was, but that would give an impression to the other staffers he was not in control, so he followed without protest.
They entered a long hallway. "Most of the more vital staff stays in these apartments here." She said, passing door after door. "Though most live in town somewhere. Those who have moved to work here have rooms downstairs."
Dapper nodded, understanding the ranking system. Newer staffers and those who were still building a life for themselves here were living on the ground floor of this wing. They had rooms, not apartments like the more senior staff who had small but comfortable apartments on the first floor.
"This will be yours." She said, stopping by a spiral staircase by the end of the hallway. "Being the head butler you will have two entryways, one leading straight into the palace and this one, leading straight to the servant quarters and the kitchen below. My girls already put your luggage up there."
Again before he could speak she was off again, trotting up the staircase with a calm and stern expression. Once they were both up there they came to a tiny room. The room had clearly been added to give some privacy from the apartment that had been newly constructed. The maid unlocked the door and they entered the apartment itself.
It had a good size, larger than any other of the apartments downstairs. The kitchen was small, but he was hardly expected to use it since he had the royal kitchen to his disposal. The living room was big and comfortable, a large couch, large windows that gave him an amazing view.
There was also a bathroom with an actual bath built into the floor, like a pool, though tiny when compared of course. The bed room was small, but that was to be expected, his luggage had been placed neatly on the bed.
"Well, this is nice." Dapper commented. "Which just leaves one thing." He turned to the white coated mare. She had green eyes, ice blue hair with a few white strands here and there. She wore a black maid uniform, the skirt covering up her cutie mark and a pair of black shoes on her hind legs. "An introduction."
The mare sighed. "Frost Heart."
Dapper raised an eyebrow. "You don't say? Well, I'm D-"
"Dapper Dash, I know sir." She replied. "I want to make one thing clear Mr Dash." Frost continued, locking eyes with him. "You may be the head butler, a station above my own as head maid, but I won't have you chasing my girls around. We have a job to do here."
"Excuse me?"
"I know. It's hard for young ponies who work closely together not to get certain feelings, but I'll tell you what I tell my girls, there will be none of that in the palace. We are here to serve, not to play around."
There was a five seconds silence, then Dapper walked over to the small dining table. "I see, well its going to be hard not to fall in love with such a charming mare such as yourself." He said, looking at the master key and an enchanted pocket watch that had been laid out for him.
Frost looked to him with an annoyed expression. "Are you mocking me?"
"Not at all."
Dapper said and placed the master key within a pocket of his blazer and switched his own watch with the enchanted one. He gave it a look, not only did it tell the time, but it showed where his ladies were. If they needed him the little watch would give off a gentle chime. Just before he was about to put it in his pocket the clock chimed, and it seemed to be the sun princess who needed him in the study.
"If you will excuse me miss Heart." He turned to her as he put the clock away. "The princess needs me. If you would be so good to unpack for me while I'm gone that would be most kind of you."
"Well I-"
Now it was Dapper's turn to interrupt. "You see I formed it as a request to be polite, but I'm afraid it wasn't. Nice to meet you Miss Heart, look forward to working with you." He left, leaving Frost Heart to boil with frustration. As he walked however he couldn't help but chuckle a little. "I like her."
Dapper was still getting used to the palace, though thanks to a guard he arrived at the study in a timely manner. Standing straight and held his head high, he gently knocked on the door.
"Enter." Celestia responded after just a second.
Dapper did just that, without too much noise he opened the door and slipped inside. "You called for me ma'am?"
Celestia looked up with a small and friendly smile. "Ah, Dapper Dash, yes, please come closer." He inclined his head and did just that. As Dapper made his way towards Celestia's desk, she folded a few papers she had been looking over. "Have a seat." She gestured to a chair.
Dapper got the feeling this was not so much about her, but him. Was it because of his wing? Or his medication? He didn't know, so he kept up his armor of control and calmness. She in turn kept up her friendly smile, and although he could tell her smile was sincere he could see the observing nature behind those beautiful eyes of hers. Dapper wasn't fooled, he could see the intelligence that radiated from her, just like her own sun. She was looking at him, but not how any other pony would.
She was looking for any hints that would tell her anything about him, any clue that would lead her to a deduction about him and his past. The two simply looked upon one another for what felt like an eternity, time itself seemed to slow down around them as they played this mental chess game.
Celestia had already made the first move by calling him up here and made him sit down, it left Dapper with little choice but to play defense. When Celestia had decided the silence had gone on for long enough she said.
"First I want to congratulate you on getting the job."
"Thank you, your majesty."
Celestia giggled. "Please, call me Celestia, it's fine here in private."
Dapper shook his head a little, surprising Celestia. "I like to earn that right, but right now I don't feel I have done so. It wouldn't feel right. If you allow me to say so."
Celestia inclined her head, and for a brief moment Dapper could swear he saw a hint of disappointment. "I understand, I hope we can get to that in time." She regained control of the conversation quickly. "For now however, why don't you tell me about yourself."
Dapper shrugged, then gestured to the papers on her desk. "Everything there is to know should be in those papers there."
"How do you know they are about you?" Celestia asked.
He shrugged again. "Educated guess."
Another giggle escaped her lips. "You're quite right Mr Dash, but it only tells me so much. For example it doesn't tell me where you learned how to be a butler."
"I have served before, traveled, worked to earn a living. I guess you can say I picked up my skills from my experiences."
Celestia leaned forward just a little, she actually looked very fascinated by what he said. "Not many like to travel outside of Equestria, and you did it on your own?"
Dapper nodded. "I did, I've tried a lot, seen a lot more."
"How did you convince my nephew to come here with his bags packed?" She suddenly asked, shifting the conversation without warning.
Dapper didn't flinch however, remaining in control of himself. Instead, he smiled. "A gentlecolt never tells."
She raised an eyebrow. "Not even to your princess and employer."
"No.." He shook his head. "Master Blueblood and I have an understanding, and I made a promise. So far he is keeping his, so I will keep mine." Then he tilted his head. "Unless you're going to magically force me to?"
The suggestion itself was a direct challenge. Celestia recognized it, but instead of feeling annoyed she was actually impressed with him. "No, of course not." Dapper had certainly surpassed her expectations, and he clearly had a clever mind. "I value honor, honesty, and loyalty. Among other things." She chuckled. "You're clearly not like most ponies I've met."
Dapper inclined his head. "Thank you ma'am."
"I think you will serve me and my sister well. If you are to stay on, can we expect the same level of loyalty?"
Dapper didn't hesitate in his answer. "Absolutely ma'am. I am at your service."
Celestia smiled. "I will hold you to that.. Well, I think that concludes our talk." Dapper nodded and stood, but before he could leave she spoke up again. "My nephew will be staying for quite a while, though you work for me and my sister, we would appreciate you keeping an eye on him. I think my nephew can become a really fine stallion if given the opportunity."
She didn't need to go into details, Dapper understood. "As you wish ma'am." And with that, he left.
By the time he came back to his apartment he could hear Frost Heart still unpacking his belongings. She hadn't heard him enter, so for now he led her to believe that he hadn't arrived. Slowly and silently he made his way towards the door of his bedroom, as he got closer he could hear her mumble things, but what she actually said he couldn't hear.
Coming up to the door he glanced inside. She had cleaned most of his stuff away, but was inspecting his personal belongings. Gone was her stern expression from before, now she looked impressed. The many pictures in his book, the souvenirs from his travels.
She admired a small dagger from Nippone, let out a long whistle as she admired the blade. "Just how many places has he been.." Frost mumbled.
"Enough to miss home." Dapper commented, making Frost yelp in surprise as she turned around to face him.
She blushed, but her stern expression came back. "Y-you shouldn't sneak up on mares like that Mr Dash!" Frost bit out. "And now that you're finally back, let me tell you I have better and more important things to do than to go around and take care of your unpacking!"
Dapper smirked. "No you don't."
Frost grimaced. "Excuse me?"
"It's your day off Miss Heart." Dapper said and walked inside. "When I arrived this morning I caught a glimpse of the schedule, today is your day off. So whatever business you had with me was something personal as you value your job. I respect that."
Frost bit her lower lip, and there was a hint of something in her eyes that Dapper recognized. "So you knew and still put me to work?!" She asked in almost a growl.
"A harmless prank to make you angry. You look quite cute when you're angry Miss Heart." Dapper was now very close to her.
Frost felt her heart pound faster, her eyes held a certain glare to them but her ears laid flat. "You're trouble Mr Dash.."
Dapper smiled a little, moving even closer. "Wanna find out how much trouble I am?"
Frost bit her lower lip again, considering. Then finally she grabbed his tie and pulled him close. Their lips locked and she quickly found herself on the bed, her horn lit as she used her magic to smack the door behind them shut.
To hell with it, Frost needed this, and Dapper was all too happy to be at service.
One week, it had taken Dapper one week to get used to his duties in the palace.
He had gotten used to the palace layout, used to the habits of Celestia and Luna. He even got used to Blueblood and his antics. So far the days had been routine, it all started with him waking up before the sun had even risen. It was a simple matter of habit, this was insanely early, even for the most hardened work ponies, but Dapper had a job to do.
Sitting up in bed he looked to his side. No Frost Heart this morning, which meant he did not need to worry about waking his companion. They were not in a relationship, or in love for that matter. But both of them had come to an understanding, both of them had a demanding job that did not allow them the same sort of free time as the rest of the staff. So, in order to take care of their needs they had decided to enter a sexual partnership.
It sounded stale and unromantic, but neither of them had that sort of feelings for each other. They tolerated each other, even respected one another, but that was as far as their friendship went. It was just sex, just a simple need that needed to be taken care of.
It was also a great stress reliever.
Turning to his nightstand, he reached out with a hoof and took his medicine bottle from the drawer. He gave the small bottle a shake which gave off only a few small pops as a response. "Fiddlesticks.." Dapper mumbled as he could clearly conclude from the sound and from a brief look inside the bottle that he was running out of pills, fast.
He needed to pick up a new bottle, but with the time he had he wasn't even sure he could get it done without anypony noticing his absence. This meant a late night call with his friend, until then he would just need to hang in there and ration what amount of painkillers he had left.
After taking a single pill he stood, got his bed neat and tidy and went to the bathroom to get cleaned and nice. Dapper always made sure to look his best, he served the princesses. If he was clean and nice then it meant the palace was clean and nice.
He made himself some Prench toast and a cup of pressed orange juice for breakfast. Afterwards, he took out the suit he had gotten ready the night before, after getting dressed and cleaned up from breakfast he was finally ready to begin the day.
The sun had still not risen yet, so he still had time to prepare Celestia's morning tea. The kitchen was still empty, though it wouldn't be too long before the morning shift started coming in and prepare the royal breakfast. As butler it was his job to oversee everything, which meant he had just enough time to wish Celestia good morning and see to Luna and what kind of a mood she was in. Depending on that mood meant what kind of drink she should have for breakfast. Then it was back to oversee the breakfast and take it up with the help from a few maids.
Before that however he had Celestia's tea to make. After a week he had gotten a good idea what kind she liked. Sweet, by Faust did the princess LOVE sweets. Still, as a butler it was his duty to push his charge a little, keep them healthy. So despite her desires he made sure to save the sugar and use special sweet herbs that would make an excellent substitute.
Finishing up the tray he used his healthy wing to balance it elegant between said wing and his back. As he was making his way out the morning shift made their way in, giving a nod of greeting to Dapper as they passed one another. He traveled the wide and tall hallways of the palace, not bothering using the servants passageways. They would take him up there faster, but he still had time before sunrise, so he used the walk to enjoy the serenity of the palace.
It was something that could be easily lost when a pony first arrived at the palace. All the splendor and glory could overshadow just how calm it actually was. Dapper enjoyed these mornings, being able to walk along these halls with its history, culture and art. Other than a guard now and again it was like having the entire palace to himself.
After a few minutes he finally reached the door to Celestia's apartment. He didn't bother to knock, but he didn't enter yet either. Instead he pulled out his pocket watch, then did a mental countdown. "Three, two, one." Right at that moment he spotted the golden lines in the horizon, signaling the sunrise was starting.
Putting the watch back into his inner pocket Dapper opened the door and went inside. As expected his lady was out on the balcony raising the sun. Like always she looked enchanting as the mornings rays of her sun hit her just the right way. Unfortunately he didn't have time to stand around and admire her all morning. He placed the tray on her coffee table, poured it, then went to make her bed.
Celestia was focusing her mind, guiding her sun gently into the sky. Carefully she let it go, letting it travel across the sky until it was ready to be lowered it again. Opening her eyes she smiled, another beautiful morning, though tired she always enjoyed the rising of her sun.
With a satisfied sigh she turned around to find Dapper making her bed. It was something he did on his own initiative. Normally the maids would come in as she was at breakfast, but Dapper had simply started to come in during the morning and take care of it as well as bringing her some morning tea.
She smiled. "Good morning Dapper Dash."
He turned and bowed slightly. "Good morning your majesty. A fine morning it is."
Celestia giggled and made her way to the couch to enjoy her tea. She never knew how good it could be to just take a short moment to relax, to fully awaken with a nice cup of tea, not before Dapper brought it up the first time. Normally she would just raise the sun and head directly to her bath.
"Thank you Dapper, I thought it would look good as well." The cup was levitated to her lips and she took a small sip. It tasted amazing, but. "I see you have saved on the sugar again Mr Dash." Celestia raised an eyebrow with an amused expression. "While you are my personal butler I am perfectly capable of taking care of my own diet."
Dapper inclined his head. "Of course you are ma'am, but have her majesty by chance read the paper authored by your student's father?" He asked, then went out shortly to start the hot water for her large bath.
Celestia tilted her head, thought about it for a second. "No, I do not believe I've had the chance. What does it say?"
Dapper returned to the doorway. "Well, his study suggests if the sun was bigger our planet would resolve around it on it's own accord. Because of it's MASSIVE size we would be drawn into it's orbit."
Silence...
Did Dapper just suggest in a polite way her flanks were getting bigger?? She blushed, trying to sneak a glance at them to see if she could spot a noticeable size difference. Biting her lower lip she looked back at Dapper who stood there in polite silence, never showing signs of laughing or anything. "Really? F-fascinating."
"Indeed so. Do you require anything else from me?"
She shook her head. "No, I'll be alright."
"Very well." He inclined his head, then went to shut the water off before he left.
Once gone, Celestia glanced back at her flanks. "They're not getting larger... Is it?" She asked herself as she gave it a small poke with her hoof, making it jiggle for a second. "Oh horse feathers, Luna will never let me hear the end of this." She stood and went to get a relaxing bath to take her mind off her flanks.
Dapper in the meantime went to Luna, if he had his time right she would be doing her morning exercise right about now. Nothing major, but a simple flight around the palace to keep her in shape. Trotting to her room he knocked a few times to make sure it was indeed empty. When no call came he entered.
Like Celestia's apartment it was themed after what she represented, lots of blue and calming colors that was pleasing to the eye. The balcony door was open, which meant the princess was still out on her short flight. Doing what he had done these past seven days he went into her bathroom, turned on the hot water and poured in some special oils to make her fur nice and soft. He would do this for Celestia herself, but she rather pour the oils in when she was in the water, so he simply made sure the bath was ready for her.
Taking her blue bathrobe he trotted out to the door of the balcony, standing ready for his lady's return. As he expected she was there within a minute, landing elegantly on her balcony. "Good morning your majesty." Dapper greeted again, holding out her robe.
Luna sighed, levitating the robe closer and slid into it. "Good morning Dapper Dash, how goes thy morning?"
Dapper raised an eyebrow at his lady's sigh. "My morning has so far been pleasant, thank you ma'am. If I may be so bold to ask, but was your night not as you would have liked?"
"Thee speak true. Our night was not as peaceful as we could have hoped for.." Sighing again, Luna let out a yawn. "Nightmares kept us busy, but you need not concern yourself. We shall join our sister for breakfast as usual.."
"Very good ma'am." He bowed for a moment and then went to the bathroom. A nice smell of the oils reached Luna, and small smile appeared on her face.
"Just what we need.."
Dapper turned the hot water off and stepped to the door. "Your bath is ready."
Luna smiled. "We thank you."
"Will that be all?"
"Yes Dapper, thank you."
He inclined his head. "Of course ma'am."
And with that he left the second princess to bathe. With nothing else left to do Dapper made his way down to the kitchens again. If it was up to him he would wake up Blueblood, but unfortunately he got to sleep in, seemed like bad habits persisted no matter where he was. Still it did give Dapper more time with breakfast.
The once quiet kitchen was now buzzing with life. Empty tables were now filled with all kinds of kitchen tools and ingredients. The kitchen was more relaxed in the morning, hence why ponies were not moving fast and made a lot of noise. A pleasant scent of freshly baked bread could be detected in the air, and Dapper had to admit that the fresh bread and the smell of coffee was probably the most relaxing smell he could think of.
As ponies in the kitchen noticed him they all stopped what they were doing and all greeted in unison. "Good morning Mr Dash."
Dapper was used to this greeting by now, it was a simple tradition, something Hoofington had told him about before the old stallion retired. Dapper took out his pocket watch as he greeted them. "Good morning everypony. I hope you all had a pleasant night." He checked the time. "Right, we have 15 minutes to get the breakfast ready and then five minutes to take it upstairs. Let's not keep the princesses waiting." The kitchen came to life once more, ponies moving around, mixing things in bowls, finishing the bread, getting the trays ready.
Like every morning he made his way to the trays, making sure it was placed exactly as it should be. Dapper also made it his mission to make sure no cakes found their way onto the trays. He knew Celestia had some smuggling operation going with some of the maids, they would bring her cake, and she would grant them time off, or something of that nature.
Sometimes it felt like a losing battle, like his lady was an unstoppable force when it came to her love of sweets. Celestia was by no means fat, but it did go to her flanks, and it was his duty to look after her, despite her kicking and screaming, figuratively of course.
"Everything ready?" Frost Heart asked as she trotted towards Dapper.
He nodded. "Everything is as it should be, we're ready."
Frost nodded. "Alright girls, let's get this up to the princesses." The maids nodded and took the many trays. Dapper stood in front, and looked at the time once again. "3, 2, 1." He put the clock away. "Right, let's go." And like a well oiled machine they started to walk into the servants passageways precisely at the specified time.
Everything went exactly as it should, less than five minutes after they left the kitchen they were in the private dining room setting the table. The maids worked fast with their magic, and Dapper made sure everything was perfect and flawless. He knew Celestia and Luna would not care for simple mistakes, they were not as stuck up as some ponies believed.
But there were still traditions that needed to be upheld, power to be perceived, not just for the ponies outside the palace, but the ponies inside as well. It was all a well oiled machine, a machine that Dapper was hired to maintain, at least the personal aspects of it.
When the table had been set, the food had been prepared and the maids once again left, leaving Dapper alone in the room. He trotted to the door, waited about 10 seconds, and then opened the door making way for the princesses.
Not much was said at first, Luna was more relaxed after her bath, though still slightly moody. Both royals sat down and Dapper served them as per usual. "Sister." Celestia began. "About the gala in spring, I think you-"
Luna groaned, interrupting her older sister. "We told you sister. We rather be anywhere than at this gala you're hosting. So many traditions have been lost, I don't like it.."
Celestia frowned. "Luna, it's your first major public appearance since you came back.. I think it will be good for you."
Dapper could feel the tension, though it was not his place to comment. "Celestia, we're.. I'm not ready, not yet.." Luna frowned. There were still things she struggled with, like the modern language. At times she would shift between her old way of speaking and then the new way. It frustrated her when there were things she did not understand, Dapper could see that.
He could see Celestia wanted to press the issue, but seemed to think better of it and let it go. Letting out a sigh she nodded in defeat. "Very well Lulu. I still don't agree, but I won't force you."
Luna seemed to relax, even smiled slightly. "Thank you sister.." There was a moment of some awkward silence, and Luna quickly tried to fill it with some more light hearted conversation. "Isn't your student attending?"
Celestia quickly caught the intent. "Yes, I invited her a week ago, but she refused to go unless her friends got to come with her."
"Oh? What did you do?"
"I sent her more tickets so that her friends could come as well."
Luna raised an eyebrow. "You didn't just tell her to grow up and just pick one?" It sounded a bit cold, but Dapper had to agree a little with princess Luna. On the other hoof, it could be a good show to the public that the elements of harmony were invited to the palace.
"I think it will be good for Twilight, she has made friends and I think they could bond a lot from coming to the gala." Celestia replied. "Though I take your meaning. Maybe I'm spoiling her a little."
Luna chuckled. "Well, do not make a habit of it. You're growing soft in your old age."
"I'm not THAT old!" Celestia huffed.
That was Dapper's cue to leave. He had to check on the princesses rooms and make sure Blueblood's brunch wasn't going to be forgotten. "If you will excuse me." He bowed elegantly and left the two sisters to argue. It wasn't proper for the staff to watch their sibling rivalry and teasing.
As he walked down the hallway however, he wondered if Celestia would tell Luna about what he insinuated about her fla-
"AHAHAHAHA!!!"
"IT'S NOT FUNNY LUNA!!"
It would seem the princess of the sun had indeed told her sister. He thanked Faust for not being in there, he would be in a world of trouble by now. He sighed, lifting his bad wing a little. "Fff!" He winced, feeling the pain of it. He had to get more painkillers from his friend, but he still had duties to perform.
With breakfast served, and the brunch for Blueblood started, Dapper made his way back up to princess Luna's apartment. He needed to make sure she had everything she needed before he moved on.
Strangely enough this was one of the more enjoyable duties. Luna could act like a moody princess at times, other times she would act like they were thousand years back in time in the way she spoke. No matter the case she would always bring something interesting to the table for him to decode.
There were times when it was pretty clear what she needed, she just didn't want to ask even though it was his job. Dapper couldn't help but find the princess of the night quite adorable when she wanted to request something but did not have the courage.
Like before he trotted up to the door of Luna's apartment, he knocked and only a few seconds later she called.
"Enter."
Dapper did so, moving in silently as to not break his lady's concentration. Like most mornings before bed she was doing some sort of game, when she had trouble sleeping she would often find something to tire her mind. This morning it looked like she was trying out Solitaire.
Dapper could see she was focusing, wanting to beat it, if she didn't she would have trouble sleeping. As he walked past her table towards the windows he got a look at the cards. Her eyes were almost glaring at the cards before her, it seemed she was stuck. As Dapper went to close the curtains he whispered, "red ten on Jack."
Luna's ears twitched and she looked up. "What was that?"
With the curtains closed Dapper made his way to her side. "If her highness permits it, I was only saying you could put the ten on the Jack."
Luna snorted. "Foolish, that doesn't do anything."
"On the contrary, because then Jack goes to the Queen."
Luna looked it over, then huffed. "That is obvious of course!"
"Indeed so ma'am." Dapper said, hiding a small smile as he went to a group of other windows to close those curtains as well.
As Luna continued to lay the cards she stole a few glances at her butler. So much about him was still a mystery, like why didn't he have a cutie mark? What happened to his wing? Where did he learn everything he knew?? He was pretty smart, and he managed to call attention to Celestia's growing flanks without being banished to the sun, that took some guts, and she respected that.
Then she saw something, it was small, but it was there. He winced, it was barely for a second, but it was there. Was he in pain? Luna looked to his wing, it was giving a single twitch. She had no idea what happened to him, Celestia had not mentioned it either. Of course as the princesses they could simply ask for his medical record, but that seemed to be an invasion of privacy.
"How is your game coming along?" He suddenly asked, bringing her out of her thoughts.
"Oh, uhm.." She looked to the cards, then sighed. "We declare defeat, this time.." She could see Dapper getting ready with advice, but she held up a hoof. "I rather figure it out myself. If I don't beat it, then I won't get much rest."
Dapper shrugged. "There are ways to solve that problem."
Luna sighed, she had heard that one before. "Speak. Many have given me advice on how to get me, the princess of the night ,to fall asleep, they have all been useless, so what's your advice."
"A massage."
Luna looked to him, her eyes in a mix of shock and disbelief. She had heard all kinds of advice, music, books, glass of warm milk, or even some sort of bath with whipped cream, whatever that was about. Never had anypony suggested a massage, most ponies would be afraid of suggesting something that intimate with a princess.
It wasn't sexual of course, but still most ponies would be afraid of the mere suggesting of such a thing with a royal such as Luna or Faust forbid her sister. But Dapper simply stood there with a straight face, credit for sure, but even so she doubted it would work.
"I will have to think about it." Luna replied, not really opposed to the idea itself, who knows, it could work. "But maybe for today you could humor me." He raised an eyebrow, waiting for her to explain. Luna looked at the cards again, using her magic to gather them into a neat deck. "You're a mystery to me Dapper. It's like you're not really here."
"Ma'am?"
Dapper was not sure how to take that, she didn't blame him, it was an odd statement. "Its like you're standing outside all the time, observing us. Like a pony who's watching a theater performance. There must be something else, you must have been a foal at one time, gone to school, had a life."
"Oh yes," Dapper confirmed. "Sadly one could say. I've made my fair share of mistakes, but I've taken care to learn from them."
Luna turned her head slightly and looked at him. "So who are you really?"
He inclined his head. "A humble servant to the crown."
The answer didn't please Luna, she snorted and stood up. "A nice deflection. Do not assume just because I'm royalty that I'm stupid." She trotted to her bed, using her magic to lift the covers as she got in. "You're wing, there's a story behind it, isn't there?"
For the first time since he had arrived, Luna saw him flinch. She had made a dent in his armor of calm, but he quickly repaired it with a simple smile. "There's a story behind everything your majesty.. Mine is long, and would surely not interest you."
Luna raised an eyebrow. "I'll be the judge of that."
Dapper looked at his princess for a few seconds, then let out a defeated sigh. "Quite. Then is there anything you would like to ask me?"
Luna thought about it for a moment, then shrugged. "Give me time to think about it, I want my question to be a good one."
Dapper nodded. "Very good ma'am. Is there anything else?"
"No, that will be all."
He inclined his head yet again. "Then I will take my leave. Sleep well your majesty."
"Thank you, Dapper Dash."
He left his lady to rest for the day, remaining calm as he got into the hallway. Though as soon as he closed the door behind him he let out a small sigh. "Buck.." He mumbled, moving his wing a little. The pain was getting worse, which meant it was time for another pill.
If not for the guards he would have swallowed one here, so instead he trotted down the hall, knowing where he could take one without being seen. He moved down the hallway and slipped through a glass door that led to one of the many balconies of the palace.
Nopony was out here as he had expected and so it gave him the chance to deal with his pain. Luna had seen something, she had noticed something, and it worried him. Had it just been about how his wing looked, or had she noticed the pain? He could not say, nor would he risk asking her.
He got the bottle out, three pills left...
Dapper needed to stop the pain now, so he decided to do what he knew he was not supposed to. He took two instead of just one. When he swallowed he took a moment to let the pills do their work, already he felt some relief. "Ahhh..." He placed the bottle within his pocket and leaned his body against the pillar.
One pill left, it would not get him through the entire day, but it would keep him pain free for at least the hardest parts of the day. First he needed to get Blueblood his brunch, then oversee some cleaning before joining his lady Celestia at day court. Then it was time for lunch and later afternoon tea, dinner, and then seeing Celestia to bed and take care of whatever Luna might need before he would finally be free!
Dapper knew full well that if he asked Celestia she would in all likelihood grant him leave to go see his doctor. He also knew however if he did tell her she would worry, and thus snoop around, even unintentionally. Dapper didn't want to lie to her either, if he did and she found out he would be finished. He hadn't lied about his wing, he just hadn't told her or Luna about his pain medication. It was a thin line to walk on, but he considered it a matter of privacy and not wanting them to worry about him more than they needed to.
He let out a sigh, taking out the pocket watch and checked the time. It was almost 9 AM, which meant it was time to get the brunch and wake up sir Blueblood. What an honor, what an honor indeed.
It didn't take long for Dapper to go to the kitchen, pick up the tray and then make his way to the guest wing. The apartment there was reserved for special guests of the princesses, such as ambassadors, close friends or family. Blueblood of course wanted the biggest apartment of them all, but that didn't really exist, they were all exactly the same.
Coming up to the door he knocked, although knowing Blueblood was in all likelihood still sleeping. Dapper opened the door only to be met with a still darkened room. The apartment itself was clean enough, nothing major out of order, a few pieces of clothing here and there from a late night arrival home was all.
Dapper placed the tray on a small table, then went to the big windows and drew the curtains, making the sun's light light up the room like a wave of color. "Argh!" Blueblood woke, but did not get up, instead he pulled the cover over his head and moaned. "Noooo, not yet.."
"Forgive me sir, but the hour is upon us, and it is time for sir to get up. A beautiful day lies ahead of you." Dapper said as he went to the tray and took it to the bed.
Blueblood sighed and sat up. "What's the time."
"9 AM, as usual sir."
Blueblood groaned, but let Dapper place the tray in front of him. "Couldn't you have let me sleep in?"
Dapper started to pick up the clothes on the floor. "Late night sir?"
"Yes, I played cards for quite a while."
"Oh?" Dapper raised an eyebrow.
"Relax Dapper, I didn't bet anything important. Only a few bits, that's all."
"Very good sir. For a moment I was afraid we needed to have another discussion about your circumstances." Dapper said in a polite enough way, but Blueblood knew well enough what this butler held over him. "Will you require the morning paper?"
The stallion snorted. "I hardly think there's anything interesting in the paper for me to be concerned about."
Dapper shrugged. "Maybe there is something interesting, I myself find the latest scores of hoofball teams to be most gratifying. It would seem my home team are moving up the ranks."
He rolled his eyes. "Well bully for you. I still do not need the paper. You can go."
Dapper inclined his head. "Very well sir. Enjoy your breakfast." And with mercy granted from the spoiled nephew of his ladies Dapper could finally leave and get some real work done.
"Dapper." A mare's voice called.
He stopped, turned and saw none other than, "Frost Heart, what can I do for you?"
The mare trotted up to him and they both started to move down the hall. "I wanted to let you know that the cleaning is going according to schedule. I also want you to remind the princess we need her approval of several things before the gala."
Dapper nodded thoughtfully. "This will be my first gala, I will be relying on you a lot." There was still plenty of time before the gala itself, Autumn and Winter had to before the gala in Spring, but Dapper knew all too well an event such as this required months of planning and preparations.
The maid giggled slightly. "Of course you will, don't you worry. I have been here for five galas, and like always it will be the picture of perfection."
"Glad to hear it." Dapper said, though something still seemed off. Celestia was so ready to invite her student's friends, which seemed unlike his lady. Normally she would be pretty strict when it came to certain hard lessons, this would have been an excellent lesson for her student to learn that you cannot always get things the way you want it. Life involves hard choices, that includes not always being able to make everypony happy.
Of course maybe he was thinking too much about it, it could be exactly as Celestia had said. Twilight had made friends, something she apparently had a hard time of doing before, if he had understood the staff of the palace correctly. It could be her way of simply being supportive of her student, and at the end of the day it was not his place to judge, despite him having done so when it came to his lady's diet..... And flanks.....
"Well if you have the cleaning under control I shall depart for the throne room." Dapper said, happy he did not have to check up on all that right now. Normally he wouldn't mind doing so, but he wanted to move as little as possible for now, and day court was the perfect place for him to stand around and do nothing for several hours.
"Very well Mr Dash, I shall see you later."
Dapper inclined his head and trotted off one way and Frost the other. It didn't take Dapper long to get to the throne room, the guards recognized him of course and let him enter a side door, that way he would not be disturbing the business of the court.
Like always there were a lot of ponies to see the princess, Dapper already figured he would need to get Celestia something to drink soon enough. Making his way alongside the walls he found his usual place which was near the throne. Near enough for her to see him, but not near enough to draw attention from any of the petitioners.
As Dapper expected Celestia was masterfully in control of the room. He knew Celestia well enough to know she took her day court seriously, but also at times found it extremely tiring. She was happy whenever she could make a real difference in a pony's life, but whenever a noble trotted into the room it was most likely something serious. There were exceptions to that rule of course, lord Fancy Pants was one such exception. Normally when he came by to consult the princess it was about a legitimate issue or proposal, which was why her eyes seemed to focus just a bit more when he came by.
Celestia was a master when it came to controlling herself, she knew how to look at almost every given situation. It may seem silly for some, but the way she smiled could make or break an image or a deal. It was the small details she mastered, a skill Luna still struggled with. As their butler, Dapper had quickly learned how to read them, not deeply, but enough to know their needs when he served them.
For the next two hours Dapper stood and waited for his lady to either finish or to give him an order, nothing happened, so when it was time the day court closed. It was Dapper's cue to go and make sure lunch was ready, so after making sure Celestia had nothing to ask him he went down to the kitchen and oversaw the preparations.
Like at breakfast he made sure the trays were perfect, and no cakes made their way onto the trays. They trotted upstairs, set the table, and once again just on schedule Dapper opened the door letting in the princess of the sun. Luna was not with her, which did not surprise him. So far Luna had only been asleep about 5 hours, so they were likely not to see her before afternoon tea.
As she sat down and looked over the options of food, Dapper trotted over and poured her some water. "Miss Heart asked me to inform her highness of her approval of certain decorations and preparations for the gala."
Celestia let out a tired sigh. "She knows what she's doing, you may inform her that I have faith in her judgement."
Dapper inclined his head. "Very good ma'am."
There was no way around it, Celestia had a VERY busy schedule, meetings upon meetings upon meetings. Dapper was present at almost all of them to take care of Celestia's needs and of course the needs of whoever she was meeting with. Luna was still getting used to the age they were living in, so Celestia did her best to get Luna into the meetings little by little so she didn't get overwhelmed. Until she was ready to fully take part Celestia insisted on taking most of the obligations herself.
It could make her job very lonely, still, she had her sister and her student. Life could be a bit dull at times, but things were generally peaceful, and it was at times like this Celestia could relax in peace and enjoy a nice quiet lunch without any worry.
Letting out a sigh she munched happily on a small sandwich. "Mmm, just what I needed.." She said, looking to Dapper. "I know better than to ask you my faithful Dapper, but are you sure you won't have a bite?"
Dapper chuckled. "Like always ma'am I would need to decline your most kind offer."
"I know." Celestia giggled. This had become a sort of game. Always she would offer him to join her, and because he saw himself as a butler and only a butler he would decline. "You should know you have done very well so far. I'm very pleased with your work, so too is Luna, though she may not say it."
"I'm glad you're pleased." Dapper said with a small bow.
"But," Celestia then continued. "Don't you have family?"
Dapper almost signed, but like Celestia he was very good at controlling himself. "I do, but like me they have busy schedules. We see each other from time to time, but it is not a huge loss for us."
Celestia frowned slightly. There wasn't much she could say, if he and his family were okay with how things were, then there wasn't really anything for her to say. "Don't be afraid to ask for a day off if you need to see them."
"Do not worry ma'am, I know."
Leaning forward a bit, Celestia scanned the table with her eyes, looking for something specific. When she didn't find it she visibly frowned. "Dapper, where is my cake..?"
Dapper sighed, yet another game he was quite used to by now. "If I may remind her highness, it is not yet tea time."
She looked at him, her eyes going stern. "If I may remind YOU, that I am your princess Mr Dash."
Dapper held his ground. "I am very much aware of that fact, but as your butler it is my job to also look after you and your sister to the best of my ability."
"Are you saying I'm getting fat?" She asked in a warning tone.
"I would not dream of it ma'am."
"Good, so if you would be so good to bring me some ca-"
"I am however saying the diameter of her highness's cutie mark seemed to have grown." Dapper interrupted.
Celestia blushed, then made a pouting face as she looked away. It was almost comical how the divine princess of the sun could turn into a little filly when it came to her sweets. Still, Dapper had to admit it was an adorable trait of hers, something he found entertaining, though a bit frustrating at times.
Celestia sighed. "Fine, but at tea time I expect you to bring some-" POOF! A scroll appeared in front of Celestia, she quickly grabbed it with her magic and unfolded it. "Ah!" Her eyes lit up. "A letter from Twilight."
Dear princess Celestia,
I am happy to report that the dragon has departed our fair country and that it was my good friend Fluttershy who convinced him to go. This adventure has taught me to never lose faith in your friends. They can be an amazing source of strength and can help you overcome even your greatest fears.
Always your faithful student, Twilight Sparkle.
P.S. I realize I forgot to write and inform you about the dragon in the first place, this was a great miscalculation on my part and I apologize. Still everything worked out and I learned a valuable lesson.
Dapper did not know what the letter said, but he could tell by Celestia's expression that she was feeling a lot of things right now. He knew very well what that meant, and as expected Celestia put down the letter.
The rest of the day went by pretty slowly for Dapper. The pain kept his mind from fully relaxing whenever he had the chance, making every second feel like an eternity. Still, the day was over and Luna had in the meantime awoken from her slumber, demanding breakfast which usually consisted of afternoon tea with her sister.
Dapper had at this point taken his last pain killer, which meant soon enough he would be in pain again and have no way of countering it. However it was just for a few more hours and then he would be able to go, just a few more hours.
The last meetings were over and done with, so was afternoon tea and some other minor tasks. The only thing left was dinner. Like breakfast and lunch it was Dapper's job to make sure everything was perfect. The kitchen worked tirelessly as they prepared the food and for a few minutes Dapper had a chance to relax.
He sat in the staff room, enjoying a nice cup of coffee as it was the only thing that seemed to relax him at this time and read the evening edition of the Canterlot Tribune. It seemed Celestia's student and her friends had once again made it to the front page. Dapper read through the article, frowned as he had no idea Equestria had been so close to be covered in smoke.
The article was pretty loose when it came to the facts of the matter, but as far as Dapper was aware, Celestia had no idea about any of this. Was that why that letter made her so, so.. No, he would not say it, not even in the privacy of his own mind. The article went on to suggest how irresponsible it was for Celestia to send six inexperienced ponies to the mountains to deal with a dragon threat. Dapper was inclined to agree, only his lady had not been aware and had certainly not sent them to do anything.
Everything seemed to have been done purely on her student’s own initiative.
This didn't make Celestia look good, but she could hardly say anything. If she refuted the claims she would make her student look reckless, thus making herself look naïve for sending her to Ponyville. Dapper was pretty sure Celestia was not angry with her student's because of a risk of failure. If they did fail then Celestia and Luna would have stepped in and taken care of things with the experts they needed.
Celestia was probably frustrated that Twilight put herself and her friends in unnecessary danger. Twilight was reckless, eager to prove herself to her teacher, but like always, Celestia wanted her little ponies to be safe. The whole smoke thing was bad, sure, but nothing some powerful Alicorn magic couldn't handle, Twilight just jumped into action before thinking.
Oh well, when everything was said and done nopony had gotten hurt, and everything had worked out, despite the recklessness displayed by Twilight. Dapper could only imagine what Celestia's reply letter said, he'd rather not know.
"Are you okay?"
A mare's voice spoke. Dapper put down his paper and found Frost Heart standing in the doorway to the room. She had a concerned expression on her face, an expression he was not used to on her.
Dapper shrugged. "I'm alright, why do you ask?"
Frost trotted in, using her magic to close the door behind her so they could get some privacy. "Because you seem, how do I put it, extra careful and stiff.."
"Really?" Dapper smiled slightly. "I assure you, I'm only taking care of the duties assigned to me by the princesses."
Frost snorted. "No, it's something else. You're not the only pony here who can read ponies. Something is bothering you, are you sick?"
Dapper sighed. "No, I am not sick. Miss Heart, I appreciate your concern, but I perfectly fi-"
"And sudden you call me miss Heart?" She interrupted. He raised an eyebrow, as if to ask her to explain what that had to do with anything. "You are being extra formal, and we're in private. You would only do that if you want to hide something."
Dapper's eyes narrowed, it would seem she knew him better than what he gave her credit for. He stood up, knowing he had to shut this conversation down before she got too close. "It's nothing Frost, just leave it alone."
Frost stood her ground. "Dapper, come on. Something is bothering you, you can trust me."
Dapper had to smile at that. "We've only known each other for a week.." The room turned silent, and Dapper immediately regretted saying that. "Frost I.."
Her expression was cold, emotionless. Using her magic she opened the door behind her. "Fine Mr Dash, if you insist, then I will leave you to yours."
"Look Frost, I'm.." She had already trotted out, slamming the door shut behind her. "Damn," said Dapper, feeling like an idiot. He had disregarded her when she only wanted to help, and he had signaled he didn't see them as friends, or that he didn't trust her. The pain he was feeling made him more irritable, but that was still no reason to forget his manners, or common decency for that matter.
He had to fix this and apologize, but a quick look to the clock told him it had to wait. The princesses needed their dinner, and so he needed to attend to their needs before his own. So, taking a few deep breaths he made his way to the kitchen, inspected the trays and got the maids to line up.
"Alright ladies, let's not keep the princesses waiting." And just according to plan they made their way through the passageways of the palace and moved up the dining room. Just like with breakfast and lunch it didn't take them long to get there and set the table.
And just like the other times Dapper made sure everything was perfect, only now he was more aware of the pain, and the guilt he felt from brushing Frost Heart off like that. Like all the other evenings Dapper opened the door, making way for the princess of the sun and the princess of the moon.
"We bid you good evening Mr Dash!" Luna proclaimed and trotted to her chair. Unlike Celestia she took her chair out herself and sat down without Dapper being a gentlecolt and got it out for her. She was used to it that way and she saw no reason to change it now.
"Good evening your majesty." Dapper replied and held the chair for Celestia. "I trust my ladies have had a pleasant day?"
Celestia chuckled. "Well, my student seemed to have taken a foolish chance, and without informing me. Though everything worked out and nopony got hurt, that's the important thing."
"It was quite brave of them." Luna admitted. "Though next time sister I suggest we handle such matters. I may not know much about this study of friendship, but I do know certain affairs should be handled by us and not common ponies." When Luna used that phrase she did not mean ponies of lower birth or importance, she meant it was better for an Alicorn to handle a full grown dragon, it was safer.
"I admit my student can be reckless, and she made a mistake. I have made that crystal clear in my last letter." There was an edge to her voice when she said that, confirming that Dapper had no desire to know what she wrote. "But a valuable lesson was learned, and I think she understands her mistake."
Luna looked to their butler who was pouring her some wine. "Tell us Dapper, have you ever been to Ponyville?"
"No ma'am," replied Dapper. "I have passed the town by train, but not had the opportunity to visit."
"I'm sure you will get the chance," said Celestia. "In fact, why don't you join me in a week's time?"
Both Luna and Dapper looked slightly confused. "Sister, are you going to Ponyville to visit your student?"
"In a manner of speaking. Fall is one of my favorite seasons, and I would love to observe a tradition they invented in Ponyville. A race called running of the leaves, every fall ponies gather to have a friendly race between the trees in order to shake the leaves down." Celestia explained, almost with a filly like excitement.
"But sister, doesn't the leaves fall off by themselves?" Luna asked, not sure what could have changed nature like that.
"Of course," Celestia nodded. "But it is mostly just a tradition, a fun game to celebrate."
Luna smirked. "Tell me sister, do you plan on participating yourself? Might be good exercise."
"Luna!"
Dapper felt it best to keep his mouth shut, he was already trotting on thin ice, and besides, his mind was elsewhere. The pain made his work harder, and kept him from fully focusing on the princesses. Not to mention he had hurt Frost Heart, an error that needed to be taken care of.
Dinner progressed as it always did, some light conversation, some teasing between the sisters, and finally it was over. Normally Dapper would get the maids and clear the table, but this time Celestia stopped him. "A moment Dapper, if you please."
"Yes princess?"
The princess trotted closer to him, a small frown crossing her face. "During this week I've gotten to know how skilled you are at hiding your true feelings." Dapper was about to reply, surprised by the sudden topic. Celestia however raised a hoof. "While I'm familiar with it as well it does have a weakness. When we suddenly change in our behavior our armor cracks slightly. Something is bothering you, while you hide it well I can tell your mind is fixed on it. Please, tell me if there's something I can do."
Dapper looked at her, and for the first time since he got here he had a hard time looking her in the eyes. Should he tell her about his pain? About his medication and hope she wouldn't dismiss him? No, instead he decided to use the second thing that bothered him.
"I hurt a friend today.." Dapper felt a pang of guilt. While it was true it bothered him what had happened between him and Frost, it was not the root of the problem, and as far as he was concerned he was just using this to cover up his pain from his princess. "I hurt her feelings, suggesting I might not be able to trust her because we only knew each other for a week."
She gave him an understanding look. "Do you really feel that way?"
Dapper sighed. He didn't like being lectured to, but act a fool and you earn it. "No, she has been a good friend to me."
"Do you know what to do?" Celestia asked with a small smile.
"I do." Dapper replied, looking at her. "I think I know how to make it right."
Celestia nodded, then said. "Then be off and fix your friendship."
"But your majesty, what about my dut-mfh?" Dapper was silenced when he felt her hoof on his lips. Her eyes were so gentle, so beautiful, and Dapper could not help but feel his cheeks warm slightly.
"Do what you got to do, I look forward to hearing how it went." And with that Celestia removed her hoof and left Dapper to save his friendship, or establish it officially.
Before any of that could happen he had to go into the city. With the sudden free time he would be able to see his friend before he closed his clinic for the day. Wasting no time Dapper left the palace and ventured into the city. Like always it was full of life, but unlike a city like Manehatten, it was not noisy or chaotic.
Canterlot was the capital, a city of culture. There was no safer city in the kingdom, but of course small crimes did happen, but rarely anything serious. This meant ponies who stayed out longer felt more safe, and there was a sense of calm and serenity just like the palace.
It took Dapper some time to get to his friend's clinic, obviously it would have been faster if he flew, but since that was out of the window he had no choice but to walk. About half an hour after he left the palace he stood before the small clinic. Lucky Star was a unicorn, an old friend of his, and the one who had recommended him to take the job as a butler.
It was about closing time when he went inside, which was clear by the fact there were no patients waiting, only a mare behind a desk. She looked surprised when she saw Dapper, well, she did when she saw a pony, but when she realized it was Dapper the surprise faded.
Without asking what he wanted she simply let out a sigh and pointed towards a door. "He's in there.."
Dapper knew she was not a fan of him, although Dapper didn't care. "Hello to you too." He said sarcastically and walked towards the door.
"Just don't take too long, we have a date night tonight." She said, giving him an annoyed look.
"Great, I'll make sure to make my medical visit as brief as possible so you can go out and suck face." Dapper said and went through the door. "Whatever you're doing I need you to stop." Dapper said looking at a very surprised unicorn stallion.
"Dapper, what are you doing here?" Lucky Star asked with some concern in his voice.
Dapper decided to make this easy for Lucky. "I need drugs."
Lucky Star frowned. "You know I don't do, oh, for your wing, yes right."
"No because they're just so yummy.." Dapper stopped himself. "I'm sorry, I don't have any pills left, and the pain is getting worse."
"Have a seat." Lucky said, knowing his friend well enough to know he wasn't being an ass on purpose, the more it hurt the more annoyed and frustrated he got. "I thought they would last longer before I saw you again.. Is your new job that stressful?"
Dapper held back the urge to groan. He didn't want to come off as unfriendly, but the pain, it drove him insane and the pills were the only thing that kept him grounded. "I can't give you details, but it's hard work."
Lucky smiled. "I'm glad you're keeping yourself busy." Then the smile disappeared, replaced by a frown as the unicorn levitated a new bottle with pills toward his friend. "Dapper, I had hoped giving you something to do would help you with your pain."
"Nothing can do that.." Dapper replied, taking a pill and swallowing it. "Only this can make it bearable."
"You still have options, we could go back and look at that prosthesis? It would fix your pai-"
"No." Dapper simply replied with a cold tone. "It's my wing, and I'm keeping it."
Lucky sighed. "You don't need to keep it, you don't need to hold onto the pain anymore."
There was silence between the two stallions. Dapper knew his friend was right, the easy thing would be to cut off his wing and get an enchanted prosthesis wing. He would be able to fly again, and the pain would go away, at least the physical pain would. Dapper knew it was not the physical pain Lucky Star was referring to when he said he didn't need to hold onto it anymore.
Lucky didn't understand, he probably never would, and Dapper didn't blame him. He stood and placed the usual amount of bits on a small table. "Thanks for the pills Lucky, I'll talk to you soon."
There was nothing more to say, Lucky knew that. "Dapper.. Look out for yourself, okay?"
"You too, remember to use protection." Dapper replied as he went out the door, causing the mare behind the counter to blush and yell after him in anger. Dapper didn't listen, instead he stood in the street and let the cool autumn breeze move through his fur. He looked to the star filled sky, then reached into his blazer and pulled out the orange bottle. He knew he shouldn't, but, right now he needed something extra and so took one more pill.
After putting the bottle back into his blazer he looked to his broken wing. For a moment he thought about flying back to the palace, the idea was stupid, he knew that. He could do it, but the pain would be immense, risking him falling to the ground and alerting the princesses that something was wrong. "Damn.." He decided it was better to walk, and so he followed the streets back to the palace.
This time it took him a bit longer, he didn't really know why, maybe it was because he spent the entire time thinking about what he should say to Frost Heart, or maybe it was because he was thinking about the past. Whatever it was, it had taken him an hour to get home, partly because in the midst of his deep thoughts he had taken a wrong turn.
Now he was finally back in the staff wing standing in front of the door to Frost's apartment. For long moments he just stood and looked at the door, but finally deciding to use the balls granted to him upon his birth he raised a hoof and knocked.
There was no response, but Dapper wasn't fooled. He sighed and knocked again. "Come on Frost, I know you're in there." Still no response. "Listen, I wanted to say I'm sorry, I didn't mean what I said in the way I said it."
The door opened, but only a little. Frost looked at him with contempt. "I'm sorry Mr Dash, but stallions are not allowed to visit the mares apartments so late at night."
She was about to close the door again, but Dapper put his hoof down, stopping the door in it's tracks. "I'm in pain, Frost." Frost Heart looked at him, then raised an eyebrow. "Not just because you slammed the door into my hoof, which did hurt a lot, but.." He sighed, reaching into his blazer he pulled out his pain killers.
Frost took a moment to read the label, then her eyes widened. "By Celestia.." These were not just some simple pills you took when feeling a migraine, these were serious drugs. "Dapper, these are.." She glanced at his wing, then back at him. "Are they for your wing..?"
Dapper sighed. "Can you let me in? Please?"
Frost was still annoyed with Dapper, but let out a sigh and took a step to the side. Dapper trotted in, and she closed the door after him. "Thank you," he said, turning to her.
"I'm still annoyed at you, but I'll give you a chance to explain why you acted like such an ass at dinner." Frost said, of course worried about Dapper's condition, but still pissed about the way he had said he didn't trust her.
Dapper inclined his head, then unfolded his bad wing, showing it off. "I take strong painkillers to keep my pain from getting too much." The wing looked horrible, it wasn't broken, but even to a unicorn like Frost, she could see something was very wrong with it. "I didn't have that many pills, in fact, I had run out when we talked in the staff room, and the pain was getting worse."
Frost frowned. "What happened to you?"
Dapper wasn't sure how much he should tell, it was not some big secret, but there were details he would rather keep to himself for now. "There was an accident a year ago, I was caught in the middle of it and my wing, well. It didn't recover as it should." Frost could tell there was more to it, but she didn't want him to force him to tell her. Dapper moved the wing close to his body again, wincing a little as it hurt to move it. "I didn't cope too well after that. I decided to keep my wing, even though the doctors told me it was best to amputate."
"So why didn't you? Why keep it if you're in pain, why come to work here?" Frost asked knowing there were a lot of details he was leaving out, but that was okay. Some things were better left unsaid for now.
Dapper sighed. "I'm not a good pony Frost, at least I wasn't. This past year I moved around in self pity, in pain and I was angry. This job gives me a chance to be better. As to why I'm keeping my wing.. It's atonement."
It was strange seeing Dapper like this. Normally he would be that calm and confident butler she had come to respect over the past week. Now she looked at a vulnerable stallion who had just shared something huge about himself. "Why tell me all this?" She finally asked.
"Because I want you to know I do trust you.. It was wrong of me to say what I said and-"
"No," Frost cut off. "Sure, it hurt what you said, but I shouldn't have pushed you. You do have a point, we’ve only known each other for a week and this is something pretty important and personal. You shouldn't have to share that with me.. I'm sorry."
Dapper chuckled. "I think you're misunderstanding, I'm the one who did wrong. I didn't trust you, but I do now."
Frost narrowed her eyes. "I shouldn't have pushed you when it was so personal!"
"I shouldn't have dismissed your concerns like that, there were better ways to do it!" Dapper argued.
"Well you're right about that!" Frost responded, then took a moment to think about what had just happened. Dapper seemed to be doing it as well, and after a few seconds of silence they both started to laugh. It felt good, Dapper hadn't laughed in a long time, a real laugh with a friend.
When their laughter died down he looked at her with a small smile. "So, friends?"
Frost looked at him for a moment, then trotted up to him and embraced Dapper, careful not to touch his wing. The hug surprised him, but after a second he smiled and hugged her back. This was nice, it had also been some time since he had last hugged somepony.
Frost chuckled. "Friends." She agreed, hugging him a bit tighter.
"With benefits still, right?" Dapper added.
"Oh, of course! You think I'd let that plot walk away, you've got another thing coming."
Dapper had never been to Ponyville before, he knew of it, but never visited.
Princess Celestia had however asked him to accompany her to the small town in order to observe an event called, the Running of the Leaves. It seemed to be a simple race, and an opportunity for his lady to visit her student. They would not be there for the event to start, Celestia had not wanted to take the focus off the race, not when she had an opportunity to observe it.
Flying high above the events, Celestia watched the race in her very own royal balloon. It was bigger than any normal balloon, had a deck, and a lounge, Dapper was almost tempted to say it was an airship more than a balloon, especially because it had a small crew to operate it.
Celestia herself stood out on the deck, looking down at the scenery below. Dapper had rarely seen his lady so excited, it was nice, and it suited her. He made his way out of the lounge and joined her on the deck. "Tea, ma'am?"
She shook her head, and instead waved him closer, not for a moment taking her eyes off the events going on below. "It seems my student has decided to participate in the race!" She sounded happy and excited about that, like if it was some sort of achievement. Maybe for Twilight it really was, Dapper had still to meet the mare herself, but he had heard the stories from the staff. "Here," said Celestia, offering him to look through the telescope.
Dapper was hesitant at first, but seeing how much fun Celestia was having, he could hardly refuse. So he walked up, looked through, and right as rain, he observed the race below. It seemed fun enough, he could understand why ponies would make this a tradition. A good race between the community members to strengthen their bonds and friendshi-wait that Pegasus just cheated! While running ahead of an orange earth pony, she had grabbed a branch and made it so it would snap back and hit the mare, giving the Pegasus a better lead.
"Well, that's interesting.."
"What is?" Celestia asked, taking back the telescope. "Oh... It would seem my student's friends are taking this competition a bit too seriously."
"Ah, Applejack and Rainbow Dash?" Dapper asked, recalling their names.
"Indeed, Dapper. I think this will be a good opportunity for a friendship lesson."
"Do you plan on interfering?"
Celestia shook her head with a gentle smile. "No, I do believe this will solve itself. However," her smile turned into a smirk. "It will be quite entertaining to watch, care to join me Mr. Dash?"
Dapper had been in the service of Celestia and Luna long enough to know they both had a mischievous side to them, something he could not help but find entertaining. So far only Luna had tried to prank him, it had failed, but he was too much of a gentlecolt to get revenge, which was in itself a prank, as he knew it frustrated her that he refused to play their games.
Celestia was more subtle, she knew how uptight ponies could get around her, and so she used that to make them lighten up. She would find ways to make them fail in small harmless ways, and then let them know through her reactions that she was not angry, did not expect perfection, and she was content, it helped ponies relax more. Though that didn't mean she couldn't pull off some bigger pranks, there was a reason the staff had nicknamed her, Trollestia. It was said with affection of course.
"I would not miss the chance to see the famous elements of harmony competing." Dapper finally replied. Celestia seemed pleased by that very diplomatic answer.
She knew Dapper well enough to know he kept a respectful distance, while also somehow managed to be just close enough. Although Celestia respected him for that, she found herself wanting to see more of the real him. Luna had made more headway in that department, maybe because she was less guarded than Celestia was.
She'd nearly spit out her tea when Luna mentioned Dapper was massaging her before bed. Celestia had turned very red, something Luna had teased her with ever since. Dapper kept his distance, but was so unafraid of approaching them. Of course it was his job to tend to their needs, but he had gone far beyond the call of duty. He had even shut down her cake smuggling operation, which was annoying, but he did it to take care of her, and without fear of what she might think of him, a trait she admired.
Unlike so many other ponies, though well intended, had a tendency to please her and almost worship her to a degree that it made most real connections with her ponies impossible. Of course Celestia had her beloved and faithful student Twilight, but even she saw her more as her mentor than her friend at times.
Perhaps it was just wishful thinking, perhaps naïve of her, childish even, but with Dapper she truly felt there was a possibility of making a real connection. He already knew about almost every aspect of her life, he was there when she woke up, there when she went to bed. Although he was clever enough to phrase his thoughts in such a manner he never directly said what he meant, he had never been afraid to speak his mind.
Celestia longed for a friend like that, someone who she could really talk to and confide in. Maybe she should try Luna's approach? Maybe getting a massage could open them both up? Luna did not give many details, mostly to tease her older sister, Celestia suspected, but she had told her how good his hooves felt. Especially when he moved them right between her wings.
Her cheeks warmed ever so slightly at the thought of him doing that to her, even to the point her wings fluttered just a tiny bit. Dapper didn't notice it as he kept his eyes on the race, but suddenly he looked at her and said, "your majesty, it seems your student's friends almost crashed into the residents with a large rock."
Celestia let out a small chuckle. "My student's friend can be a bit-wait what?" Quickly she looked, and indeed she saw Rainbow Dash and Applejack sitting on a large rock on the road. The dust behind them suggested they had slided off the cliff, it seemed it was pure luck they didn't crash into the other ponies running. Letting out a sigh, she looked to Dapper and said, "I think it's about time we land, please inform the pilot."
Dapper inclined his head. "Very good, ma'am."
After landing, Celestia made her way towards the crowd, the race had just finished and it seemed a winner had been declared in Twilight. As they came closer, Dapper could hear Applejack speak. "You're right Twilight, our behavior was just terrible.."
Rainbow Dash seemed to agree, and added, "we weren't very good sports."
The crowd gasped and bowed as they noticed Celestia trotting towards them, but she kept her attention to her student and her friends. "Sounds to me like an important lesson was learned."
"Princess Celestia?!" They all exclaimed, confused and shocked.
"What are you doing here?" Applejack asked after the initial shock had worn off.
Celestia smiled and explained, "fall is one of my favorite seasons, so I came to celebrate the running of the leaves."
Both Rainbow and Applejack looked downcast and ashamed, and so Applejack apologized for their shameful behavior. "I'm sorry you had to see us being such poor sports, princess."
It was like foals apologizing to their mother, Dapper thought. Celestia however responded as one might expect, gracefully and calmly, with a hint of motherly warmth. "That's alright, Applejack. Anypony can get swept up in the excitement of competition."
Then Twilight cut in, "it's important to remember that the friendship is always more important than the competition." Dapper was not sure if it was because he was on painkillers that he cringed, but that seemed like basic common sense, but her teacher gave her points anyway.
"Exactly, Twilight." Gold star, Twilight, gold star. "But because the two of you were busy tricking each other, you didn't get to enjoy a fair race."
"Why, princess, I bet we can make up for that lickety-split." Applejack responded, then turned to Rainbow Dash. "What do you say, friend? Want to go for another run?"
Rainbow smirked. "I'd love to stretch my legs." And with that, they were off, leaving Celestia and her student alone, as well as Dapper, who stood near Celestia.
"So, Twilight," Celestia smiled, turning her attention back to her student. "I hear there is a celebration after the race?"
Twilight nodded excitedly. "Yeah! There is a big lunch back at Sweet Apple Acres, the others should be waiting for me there."
"Do you think they would mind if we joined you?" Asked Celestia.
"Not at all princess, I'm sure Granny Smith would-wait did you say we? Who's we?" And then suddenly she spotted Dapper Dash, standing barely a meter behind Celestia. Her eyes looked him over, and she genuinely seemed surprised, like she really hadn't noticed him before now. Then again, Celestia did draw a lot of attention to herself, which made his job easier at gatherings at the palace. "Oh, sorry, I didn't see you." Twilight apologized, clearly feeling a little embarrassed.
"It's quite alright, Miss Sparkle." Dapper replied calmly. "Congratulations on your victory."
"Thank you! Uhm, but who are you? Are you a noble from Canterlot?"
Celestia giggled. "Twilight, this is my personal butler, Dapper Dash."
Twilight was surprised, having lived with Celestia for quite a while she had never seen any personal butlers. She had seen a lot of butlers, but nopony that would follow her this closely. She gave Dapper a smile, but to him it looked a little forced, maybe because she was a bit unsure how to feel about this?
"It is good to meet you, Dapper Dash."
She said, and Dapper simply inclined his head in response. As a butler he was not the most talkative pony when it came to Celestia's guests, or acquaintances. He was there to serve the princess, letting her enjoy herself, and him making it as comfortable and easy for her as possible. He was supposed to not even be noticed when serving.
"Well then, let us depart." Celestia said, sensing the awkward mood.
Teacher and student started to trot down the road, with Dapper following a few steps behind them in order to give them some space. He was a servant, and so it would be improper for him to trot too close beside his mistress. Twilight happily chatted with her mentor, though at times she would glance back at Dapper with a puzzled expression.
Finally she could not hold it in anymore, so she looked to Celestia and asked, "so, since when did you need a personal butler?" Intended or otherwise, Dapper grasped the root of that question, but he did not react to it. He was not a part of this conversation, no matter what she may say, but it was clear she was uncomfortable with the idea of Celestia having a personal butler. Why that was the case, he had no idea.
As always, one could not tell if Celestia noticed it as well, she kept calm, smiled, and gave her an answer. "Well, with Luna here we can split our royal duties, which means we have more time on our hooves. Although, our duties can still be tiring, so we were convinced in trying to hire a personal butler, one that could serve our more personal needs." Celestia's face was the picture of perfect innocence, but Dapper had an idea she was actually teasing Twilight.
"Personal needs..?" Twilight repeated, as if going over what she could possibly mean. As she was running the options over in her mind, it quickly became clear to Dapper she was reaching the wrong conclusions, evident by how much she was starting to blush.
"I have been very pleased with his services so far." Celestia continued. Now Dapper was sure that she was doing this on purpose, teasing Twilight and trolling him! "Luna is also very satisfied, though she refuses to share any of the details."
Twilight seemed to be close to having a mental overload, Dapper could even swear he saw steam above the purple unicorn's head. He himself could not help but blush, despite his best attempts to never reveal his thoughts. In the moment Celestia knew she had gotten to him, it was just some friendly teasing, friends could do that, right?
After finally getting Twilight to calm down, the three of them arrived at Sweet Apple Acres. Dapper had of course heard of the place, and he was impressed by the beauty of the farm. Dapper himself always made sure to get the best ingredients for the princesses, which included apples from this very farm.
Walking past the fence they were quickly met by the rest of the elements, and of course Applejack's family. All of them bowed in respects, but Granny was the first one to rise. "Ya majesty, ah would like to welcome you to our humble farm."
Celestia gave a small nod, and said, "you have my thanks, and hope to enjoy your hospitality."
Granny gave a small smirk, "why princess, you don't need to ask that. Of course yer welcome! You and your fine lookin' fella behind ya!"
And just like before, it was like only now did the ponies around them seem to notice Dapper. It didn't bother him, it allowed Dapper to work without anyone really being bothered. Now however, a pink pony suddenly appeared in front of him and started talking a million miles per hour. He only caught her name, and asking something, the rest seemed to just blur together.
Before Celestia or Twilight had a chance to explain, Rainbow Dash and Applejack appeared behind them, panting. "Whew.. That was some run.." Applejack said with a smile and trotted closer, along with Rainbow Dash hovering beside her. "Oh, princess!" They bowed once again. "You've decided to join us?"
Celestia nodded, "that's right, Applejack."
"Cool!" Rainbow exclaimed, and then, like the rest, noticed Dapper Dash. "Who's that?"
This time Dapper decided to introduce himself, and so he straightened his posture and politely bowed his head to them all. "My name is Dapper Dash, I am in the employment of the princesses as their personal butler."
Pinkie burst out laughing, and the large group went from surprised, to confused. "What's so funny Pinkie?" Asked Twilight.
She wiped a tear from her eye, pointed in the direction of both Dapper and Rainbow, and exclaimed. "Mr. & Mrs. Dash! Ahahaha!!" The others quickly understood, and gave a few chuckles and laughs of their own. Rainbow however was not amused, but she kept quiet for the sake of the princess, who of course, also was amused.
Dapper just kept a neutral face, wishing he could take another pill, or two, in this moment. When the laughter finally died down he turned to Celestia and asked, "do you require my services for the time being? Or would her majesty prefer I wait with the balloon?"
For a second Celestia seemed confused by the question, but regained her composure quickly. "Dapper, you are free to join us at the celebration."
Once again, Dapper found his mistress wanting to include him in engagements he had no business of participating in. He didn't like that he had to reject her, and he didn't like that she kept putting him in that position, but he knew it came from a good place. So, like all the other times, he inclined his head, politely refused, and reminded her of his duties.
Celestia kept herself composed, but Dapper could have sworn he saw her right eye twitch with annoyance. "Very good then Mr. Dash, then will you be so good to render your services available for all present?"
Now it was Dapper's right eye that twitched, was she just punishing him now. He kept a stiff smile, and as did she as they stared at each other. "Very good, ma'am. I shall do my utmost not to disappoint you." The two kept looking at one another, almost like a battle of wills, a battle, the rest of the ponies were unaware of.
Tables had been placed outside, all set, and all having food. Dapper moved between the tables, serving each pony as Celestia had instructed. Rainbow Dash seemed to enjoy it the most, although, not for the right reasons. Whenever she had a chance, she would call Dapper over and give him some strange command. Food, drinks, anything she could think of.
Pinkie soon joined in, thinking it was just a game, which it was, for them at least. Dapper did however impress them all, never did he show he was tired, never did he lose speed, and everything was done with a certain grace and elegance, even Applejack could see that.
Even so, Dapper started to feel his wing acting up, the pain was getting worse since he had not taken a pill since before they went to Ponyville. Thankfully however, the two of them started to run out of requests, but that was only after Rarity gave them a stern look and a little scolding.
For Celestia, she had hoped Dapper would take this as a lesson, hoping he would stop working and finally take the offer to join them, rest, eat, and have fun. To her annoyance, Dapper didn't stop working, he stubbornly refused to back down, and the two of them, while smiling to each other politely, knew exactly what the other one was trying to do. Dapper simply refused to back down, and Celestia wanted him to finally give in. It was like an immovable object versus an unstoppable force.
It seemed Dapper was determined to take any challenge Celestia could throw at him, but suddenly a voice, while not loud, still cut through the air with this one question. "Mister, how come you don't have your cutie mark yet?"
And so, once again, Dapper found himself the center of attention. Just like when they had first noticed him, they all only now seemed to notice he did indeed not have a cutie mark. He was what ponies would call, a blank flank. While the word itself was not an insult, the term was being used as such.
Nopony spoke, nopony dared to ask about it, as it was a deep personal matter for most ponies. The pony, or rather, the filly, that had asked the question, was Apple Bloom, flanked by her two best friends. All three looked up at him in confusion, none of them understood how an adult could not have his cutie mark yet. It was then Celestia felt a little bad, while she had wanted to tease Dapper, give him a little lesson, she had not wished for him to become the center of attention like this.
Dapper however, while not happy with all this attention, smiled at the little filly. "Well, I guess it is because I like to try a lot of things.. Finding my cutie mark has been a lifelong adventure, and while looking for that special talent, I have met a lot of ponies, seen a lot of places and tried a lot of things."
"But you still haven't gotten your cutie mark yet?" Sweetie Belle then asked.
Dapper shook his head, "no, but that's okay. I like to think of it as an opportunity to grow as a pony, and never limiting myself to just my cutie mark. I have learned a lot, and experienced a lot, and I probably wouldn't have done that if I had found my cutie mark at an early age. So, I see it as an adventure that never has to end."
All gathered listened to Dapper in surprise, Celestia especially. She had thought Dapper would be closed off from the fillies, trying to shoo them away or give a very flat answer in order to get back to work. That had not been the case however, he had given them a warm smile, given their question real consideration, and finally gave them a deep and thoughtful answer. Celestia was amazed, Dapper, while always being guarded, yet clever, had shared something about himself. While not giving any details, his answer, and treatment of the fillies, spoke volumes about his character.
The three fillies even seemed satisfied, then one said to the others. "Why don't we start and try to find our cutie marks?"
"Yeah! We can try a bunch of stuff, just like Mr. Dash!"
The three of them let out a squeal of delight, and ran off. Letting out a sigh, Dapper, thinking he was going back to work, started to serve again, but was suddenly pulled into a bone crushing hug from Pinkie Pie. "You're so cute and kind!!" She laughed, but Dapper was not laughing, or smiling.
The hug put pressure on his wing, and he had to bite his lip in order not to let out a scream of pain. None noticed, but Celestia did. Dapper rarely let his guard down, but this time, while subtle, could see Dapper was holding back a scream of pain. Then, to her horror, when Pinkie finally let go and returned to her seat, Dapper continued to serve.
Taking a tray he still masterfully made his way to her table, serving drinks for her and the others around her. While nopony else noticed, Celestia could see his wing twitched, and it required effort to not let it drop. He continued to serve, a polite smile, but his eyes were filled with restraint.
"Why..?" Was her only thought.
Why did he do this? Why did he insist on carrying on like this despite being in pain? How much pain was Dapper in? She couldn't take it anymore, she would not force Dapper to continue this, he was in pain, and she did not want him to do this. She was about to stand and announce she had to go, when suddenly Dapper cleared his throat, catching her full attention.
"If I may, your majesty, I would like to take you up on that offer and join you for a little while, if that is okay?"
Celestia was stunned, something that didn't happen often. She had just been about to give them an out, but Dapper had stopped her. Why? Did he see what she was planning to do? If so, did he decide to stay for her sake? Despite the gesture, Celestia knew he did not ask for his own sake, his actions and character had proven he would fight through every challenge, and whatever pain might befall him. He was doing this, for her.
The infuriating thing was, she could hardly say no, it would look out of character, and Twilight especially would know something was wrong. Dapper was clever enough to know that as well, and so he had maneuvered her into agreeing, and staying. Deep inside she was happy, she had wanted to stay and enjoy a simple lunch with these ponies, but she had not wanted to prolong Dapper's suffering. He knew, he had always known, and so put her need before his own, even to the point he forced her to accept.
Her eyes looked deep into his, and she nodded. "Please, join us Mr. Dash."
Dapper inclined his head, and said. "Thank you, ma'am."
Three days since the running of the leaves, Celestia still kept her distance from Dapper. He tried not to let it show it bothered him, but it did. Ever since they left it seemed like she had taken a step back, distancing herself from him. Had he gone too far?
True enough, he had seen her wanting to leave the celebrations early for his sake, but Dapper could see she wanted to stay. He had made sure her need was tended to, not his own, and so joined the festivities to make her stay. It seemed like a good idea, at the time at least. Now it seemed he might have crossed an invisible line, and he was not sure if he could salvage it.
On the way back to Canterlot the solar princess had seemed redrawn, like she retreated into her more royal façade. She was hiding, and he knew it. At first, Dapper just assumed she was a little upset with the stunt he had pulled, but having not let up yet, he was forced to realize he might have hurt her. He had no way of confirming if that was the case, and that led to another question, did he want to confirm it? Or rather, should he even attempt to salvage, whatever they had before?
It wasn't just the fact he was a butler, being her personal butler of course meant he would know her more intimately than others. In order to serve her best, anticipating her needs, her desires, he needed her trust. For the first time since he got here, he could not read her.
That was not quite true of course, he could read her, in the sense she hid thoughts and feelings behind such a thick mask of royalty that he could not read anything else. He could assume all he wanted, but at the end of the day he had no way of knowing. Princess Luna was worried as well, but had told him she would come around, that it was only a question of time.
Dapper was no longer sure..
Obviously he dutifully carried out his duties as before, he tended to their needs, but Celestia's had become fewer. No longer was he to serve her early in the morning, nor was he to serve her before bed. To put it mildly, she had shut him out. Luna allowed him to take a day off, thinking some relaxation would be good for him. Dapper did not really need it, instead he figured he might as well get a refill of painkillers, and at the same time seek advice from his old friend.
Lucky Star, a doctor, looked at Dapper. "You know you can visit me even if you don't need painkillers?"
"But then I would not get that warm smile from your secretary," replied Dapper, taking a pill.
"She's not my secretary, she's a nurse." Lucky said in a sigh, knowing Dapper was only venting his frustrations.
"She sits behind a desk, shares her lipstick with you, she's a secretary." Dapper insisted, then leaned back in his chair. Lucky knew Dapper well enough to not be as bothered by what he said as others might be. Instead he decided to get to the reason he was really here.
"I assume you didn't come to visit me just to insult my marefriend?"
Lucky said, trying to sound just a little upset, but there were no teeth behind it. Lucky was a caring kind of pony, wearing his heart on the outside. It made him well liked, everypony liked him, so why did he hang out with Dapper? He tried to find that out too, so far Dapper assumed it was because he had a mental illness, a compulsion to help anypony, being deserving of that help or not.
No, that was not fair, and Dapper knew it. Lucky was very kind, and the two had been friends for a long time, even before he was in pain. In truth, Dapper admired him a lot.
Lucky in the meantime felt sorry for his friend, he knew Dapper was not being himself. This persona he had invented for himself, this sarcastic ass, that was not who Dapper was. It was a way to push ponies away, knowingly or not. Dapper seemed to want to distance himself from whatever and whoever reminded him of his past. He was in pain, but that was only because he wanted to be, not because he had to.
The pain, Lucky suspected, was punishment. He was simply denying himself to be pain free, denying himself to fly normally again. All of this came from him, and if Lucky was not his friend he would have insisted he'd let him amputate and replace his wing, or deny him his pills. He couldn't however, he knew Dapper would just be stubborn, let himself be in massive pain until he became desperate enough to seek pain relief by more illegal means.
"No, no I did not.." Dapper admitted. "I'm here for advice.."
That caught Lucky off guard. "You need my advice? The great butler who advises the aristocracy?"
"Giving advice is easier.. If you don't want to hear me out I can just leave," said Dapper, about to get up, but Lucky placed a hoof on his shoulder, pushing him down.
"No no, I didn't say I wouldn't help you, I'm just surprised, that's all." Lucky assured, then sat down. "What's going on?"
Dapper hesitated, he wanted his friend's advice, but how much should he tell? He could not reveal anything about the princess's private life, not even to his friend, but he needed to figure out what to do. "I have a problem with, uhm.. A friend.."
"A friend?"
"That's what I said."
"You don't have friends."
"You're my friend."
"I'm your drug dealer at best."
Dapper snorted, then waved his hoof. "Alright, you win this round.."
Lucky smirked, pleased he had made Dapper smile. Of course they were friends, banter and teasing was just part of it. "Alright, I'll bite. What's the problem with this friend of yours?"
"The problem is not her per say, I think I'm the problem.." Dapper admitted, then Lucky's marefriend called from the reception room.
"Big shocker there!"
Dapper rolled his eyes, and Lucky quickly closed the door. "Sorry about that.."
"Right, you know maybe you should invest in a leash and a muzzle." Dapper grumbled.
"Hey!"
Dapper smirked and protested. "What? For all you know she likes it."
Lucky sighed, rubbing the side of his head. "I thought you took this job to be better.."
"I'm not at work now, and foal steps.." Dapper replied, then took a deep breath. "Alright, enough screwing around.. I've been trying to keep my relationship with this friend professional, strictly business."
"And you want to be more?"
"I don't know what I want, but I think she wants to be more, be friends.." Dapper's ears flattened as he tried to rationalize it in his mind, he just couldn't. Why would the princess of the sun be friends with him? "At any rate, we went to this thing in Ponyville, she wanted to enjoy herself, and she asked me to join her. I refused, politely of course, as I was still working."
Lucky didn't need to ask, he was already pretty sure who he was talking about. After all, if he was the personal butler to one of the princesses, why would he hang out some other place with some other mare? If he was working, then he was with one of them, and since Princess Celestia had been seen in Ponyville, it stood to reason she was the mare he was talking about.
"So I worked, serving her and her friends." Dapper didn't really bother hiding it much anymore, he knew Lucky was smart enough to figure it out, but he would not confirm it if he asked, which he wouldn't. "Some of them pushed me just a little too much, but I didn't say anything.. And then there is my wing.."
Lucky nodded, understanding. "And she noticed it?"
"Yes, she wanted to leave, for my sake. I didn't want her to leave because of me, so I accepted to join them, knowing she could not order me to go, because then it would have looked strange to her friends."
"So you manipulated the situation to make her stay?" Lucky asked, and Dapper nodded. "You think she noticed you were in pain?" Dapper nodded again. "She must have been worried about you, afraid to hurt you again. So she distance herself from you in order to protect you."
"I don't know, why would she do that..?"
Lucky gave him a look, like if the answer was obvious. "Because she cares about you."
"Okay, but why? I'm just a butler." Dapper asked, confused.
It was amazing how insightful Dapper could be when it came to other ponies, but when it came to himself he was as thick as a fencepost. "You would have to ask her yourself, but I do think you're giving yourself to little credit, overthinking things.." Lucky knew it was probably not the best idea to bring up his pills, but he might as well try. "Maybe you would relax more, and so would your friends, if you decided to fix your wing."
Dapper narrowed his eyes. "Cut it off you mean."
"And replace it with an enchanted prosthesis.. You would be able to fly again, Dapper.." Lucky said, almost begging.
"I can fly." Dapper protested, sounding a little annoyed.
Lucky did not want to argue, so he just sighed. "Yes, but not without a massive amount of pain. Never mind, if you want to continue like this, then by all means do so, but just know my offer still stands."
Dapper didn't answer, he just nodded to his offer before trotting towards the door. "Thanks for the talk, see you later."
"You don't wanna join us for lunch?" Lucky called, but Dapper just left.
The walk back to the palace was a long one, not that the distance from the clinic to the palace was very far apart, but Dapper decided to take the long way back, enjoy the sunny, yet cool day. All around him there were ponies, shopping, enjoying the day outside a café, or foals playing in the streets. Friends and families, all having a good time...
It annoyed him, it was like each time he saw a stallion and a mare having fun together, a knot would form in his stomach. What the buck was with him these days? Deciding he was just in a bad mood, he took another pill, but it did nothing to help the knot in his stomach.
He couldn't understand why Celestia, the princess of the sun, co ruler of Equestria, would interest herself for a mere butler. Of course she was kind and generous, so it was not like he expected to be treated like dirt, but she seemed to make an effort to get closer to him, and that was the thing that confused him.
His thoughts were interrupted when he heard the enchanted pocket watch chime. He pulled it out from his blazer, and noticed it was the princess of the moon who was in need of his services. "Luna?" Dapper mumbled to himself in a questioning tone, why did she want to see him now? She had given him the day off after all.
Letting out a sigh and placing his pocket watch back in his blazer, he looked to the palace. "It's not like I have anything else to do.."
It didn't take Dapper long to get to Luna's chambers, he did however make sure to visit his own room to make sure he was presentable first. He wondered if the princesses were planning on firing him, maybe that was why he was called up here on his day off? Dapper didn't want to go, despite everything, he liked this job, and he wanted to continue. If his ladies however did not wish for his service, then he would step down without a fuss.
Taking a deep breath, gathering his courage and steeling his emotions, he knocked on the door. A second or two later, Luna called. "Enter." And so he did. Luna was over by the balcony windows, a nice lunch table had been set up. "Ah, Dapper." She said, smiling as she saw him. "Thank you for coming on such short notice, we thank thee."
"Of course, ma'am." Dapper replied, trotting closer. "What can I do for you?"
"I'm having lunch with my sister, I wondered if you could serve us?" Luna asked, giving him a small smirk. Dapper knew what she was up to, she wanted them to talk, but was this prober? He didn't have a choice, so he might as well give it a shot.
"Of course, I shall endeavor to make your lunch as comfortable as possible."
"Excellent!" A knock was then heard, and Luna beamed. "Come in dear sister!" She called, and it was indeed Celestia who entered. Her expression was not one of royal neutrality, but instead she seemed sad, that however changed when she spotted Dapper.
"Luna I'm not really in-the-hm? Oh, uhm, yes sister, thank you for the invitation."
Dapper noticed the quick change, going from sad to neutral in just a second. It didn't help with what he was feeling, now he just felt even more guilty, if he was indeed the reason for her grey mood. Luna pretended not to notice, and so she just smiled and gestured to the table. "Come come sister, Mr. Dash has been so good to serve us today. Luck is on our side it seems."
Celestia couldn't help but smile just a little. "He does work for us, so he would not be here unless you asked for it."
As the solar princess trotted closer, Dapper pulled out the chair for Luna, and once seated he hurried over and did the same for Celestia. "Oh hush sister, we're fortunate to have a butler as skilled as Dapper."
"Indeed.." Celestia replied, not even glancing at the Pegasus.
Luna narrowed her eyes, determined not to let this opportunity go to waste. Her sister had been moody for three days, and it was obvious what was bothering her. As for Dapper, he might think himself clever, and of course he was, but Luna could tell from his troubled dreams that this was bothering him, maybe even more so than Celestia.
She wouldn't let this go, neither Celestia or Dapper would take the first step, both too stubborn or too nervous to initiate any sort of talk, so she would have to do it. As Dapper served tea for them, Luna decided to be bold. "You have been feeling down lately, sister?" Luna asked, not worried that Dapper was there, after all, he would not say anything about any private conversation they had, so why would that change now?
Celestia eyed Luna, having a sneaking suspicion what she was up to. Dapper felt the same, but didn't say anything. "Yes, I might be a little tired, a lot of work."
Luna nodded, then hummed thoughtfully as she took a sip of her tea. "Then why don't you let Dapper help you relax? I mean, that is what he is here for, isn't that right Dapper?"
"Yes ma'am, most certainly." Dapper answered, politely enough, and glanced at Celestia, who was in turn glancing at him. "But of course, I would not want to force my services onto her, I hate to get in the way of her duties."
Was that a jab at me? Celestia thought, feeling herself get annoyed. Then after taking a sip, she said. "Sometimes it's good to have friends, though I would hate to be a source of pain for somepony else."
Did she just talk about me? Dapper thought, keeping himself from frowning. "I cannot think of anypony who would find you a pain, ma'am. I think anypony would be delighted to be in your company, and work for you."
Celestia just shrugged. "Some may do too much, strain themselves in order to please me. I would hate to see anypony I care about go too far."
"Maybe they want to work hard to please you? Maybe it's because they have such respect for you that they try so hard." Dapper suggested, trying to sound neutral, but was doing a poor job of it.
"That may be, but I do not wish for anypony, friend or not, to be in too much pain when with me." Celestia simply said. "Better for me to remain distant, for their sake."
Now Dapper frowned fully, was that why she was doing this? Was she doing exactly what he had been doing to her? Yes, she had figured out he was in pain, and not wanting to pressure him anymore she had distanced herself from him, making their relationship purely professional. That was good, wasn't it? This was what he wanted, right?
No..
He had wanted to remain distant so he could serve her best, but now that she was sad, he was failing her as her butler. She did all of this in order to protect him, a lonely butler. That was not all, he missed her, missed greeting her in the morning, saying goodnight in the evening. He missed their mental chess games, him trying his best to sabotage her cake smuggling operation, and her trying to set it up again.
Was this friendship? A friendship he did not know he had to begin with.
He wasn't sure he could save it, he had hurt her, made her think he did not wish to be her friend, made her think he was in pain because of her. Was it top late to salvage?
"Dapper?" Luna suddenly said, snapping Dapper out of his thoughts.
"Yes, sorry ma'am."
Luna giggled, then shook her head. "Not at all, you may go, we can take care of things from here."
Dapper inclined his head. "Very good, if you will excuse me then." Then with a bow, he left the royal sisters to talk. Luna had not wanted to push them both too far, but she was happy with the progress she had made.
Once out, he let out a long sigh. He didn't know what he wanted anymore..
He wanted to be close to her, he missed that, but how could he? He was a butler, she was a princess, surely there were more deserving ponies than him? He sighed again, and started to walk, thinking he might as well go to his apartment and relax for the rest of the day.
Dapper didn't get far, or rather, he did, but not anywhere near his own apartment. Instead he found himself near the ballroom, a place he had passed on more than one occasion, mostly to help preplan the Grand Galloping Gala. Not in any hurry, he went inside to marvel at the architecture. Dapper often found himself appreciating the artwork of the palace, the architecture, and of course the history.
This time however, he didn't just admire the artwork, he moved closer to one of the corners. He had eyed it a few times, but had never really tried it. The ballroom piano, a beautiful one of its kind, highest quality. Ever since he saw it for the first time he had wanted to give it a try. Music was one of Dapper's passions, and nothing could relax him as much as playing the piano.
He hadn't wanted to do it before, but today he really felt like he needed it. Besides, it wasn't like he could get in any more trouble than he already was, and what was the chance for anyone to stumble upon him while playing? Sighing, he sat on the stool, moving his hoof over the keys.
He hadn't been able to play for some time, so he felt slightly excited to finally be sitting at a piano again. Taking a deep breath, he closed his eyes and started to play.
The sounds echoed in the large hall, but in a nice way that made the music sound even more beautiful. Dapper loved the Piano, he always had, when he was a foal he hoped he would get a cutie mark in being a musician, but alas, he didn't get one. He still enjoyed playing on it, and what he could was a talent he had trained and worked for, so that made him feel better.
Dapper wasn't sure for how long he played, he didn't notice, he just kept playing and lost himself in the music. Then suddenly, after playing one more song, he started another piece, this time, one that came from the heart. He thought about Celestia, about their relationship.
He missed her..
And so, he did what most ponies did when they felt like this, sing.
It didn’t seem important. Before you went away. It just felt so right. When I could see myself in you. Feed you all my pain. To make myself feel great. Tried to hide my mistakes, And stand beyond the gate
So will you please forgive me? Please forgive me. Please forgive me. Please forgive me.
You said we should be happy. You made it sound so easy. I threw 'just with anger. And I always hit the spot. And I did not deserve you. Have been foolish before. All that you are, I see now, Didn’t see before
So will you please forgive me? Please forgive me. Please forgiv-
"I forgive you.."
"Ahhh!" Dapper jumped at the sudden voice speaking in his ear, in his shock he jumped a little too much and fell down from the stool, ending up on the floor. "Ouf!" He felt on his flank, confused, but it was quickly cleared up as he heard a sweet giggle. Looking at the direction of the voice, he saw the solar princess herself. "Celestia..?"
Now it was Celestia's turn to look startled, he had never just used her name. He quickly gathered himself and stood up, bowing his head. "I mean, forgive me, princess.."
She made a pouting face. "Oh, and you were doing so well.." Then she giggled. "Dapper, you are a strange pony."
"I.. Uhm.." He looked up at her, finally letting his armor of calm drop. Dapper frowned, a worried look in his eyes. "I didn't mean to hurt you, I'm sorry if I went too far at the farm.."
Celestia shook her head. "No, I should not have forced a lesson on you like that. You have been working hard, and I should not have tried to force on you a friendship you did not wish. I'm sorry, I didn't know you were in pain, and so I have tried to distance myself from you, but I only hurt you more."
Dapper frowned, he didn't want her to apologize to him, she was the princess of Equestria, so it just felt wrong. Finally though, he gave in, he could not run away from something he knew he wanted. "Prince-ehm, Celestia.." Again, she was surprised he used her name, and with his serious tone, she gave him her full attention. "I do want to be your friend, both you and Luna.. I'm.. I'm just not sure if I, of all ponies, deserve your friendship.."
Celestia frowned. "Because you're a butler?"
"No," replied Dapper, shaking his head. "Because I'm here to try and be better." He nodded towards his hurt wing. "I was in a bad place before, I was a bad friend, a bad pony, I don't even think I would have been alive right now if not for my friend pushing me to take this job."
"Sounds like a good friend." Celestia smiled.
Dapper nodded. "The best. He believes if you just care enough, all the pain in the world stops." He chuckled slightly. "I owe him, you a lot. I love my job, but I'm just.. Afraid I will disappoint you as a friend, as a pony, which was why I tried to push you away."
"To protect us?"
"Yes.."
Celestia smiled gently. "Seems we both have something to learn." Dapper let out a small laugh, and Celestia giggled in return. "Dapper, you might have been a bad pony in your own eyes, but if you were truly bad, you would not have tried to protect me or my sister.. I think you really care about ponies, and that speaks volumes about your character."
Dapper couldn't look at her, he felt very exposed, more so than he ever had. "So.. Uhm.. Do you see yourself being able to lower yourself to become friends with a lonely butler..?"
He felt her hoof under his muzzle, gently guiding his head to look up at her. "I would not see it as lowering myself to become friends with you, Dapper. Do you think you could become friends with the rulers of Equestria?"
"I'm not sure, but I will endeavor to become the friend you deserve." Dapper said, still a little nervous, but Celestia could live with that. One step at a time.
"I see I will need to step up those friendship lessons." She joked, and Dapper chuckled, shivered at the mention of it. Celestia giggled, then looked to the piano. "I didn't know you could play the piano, will you play something for me?"
Dapper smiled. "It will be my pleasure." He moved back up on the stool, turned to the keys, and stopped. Dapper felt nervous, though he had opened up to Celestia, he had not told her everything. His hoof moved up to the spot where his bottle of pills were hidden. He could feel it's shape through the fabric, and for a moment he thought about telling her.
"Dapper? Is everything alright?"
"Yes, of course." His hoof lowered. "Just tried to think of a song you'd like."
Then, after another silent moment, he started to play.
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.
Chatter and shuffling of hooves filled the kitchen as the kitchen staff of the royal palace was getting settled for the morning shift. Dapper stood at the very end of the kitchen, on top of a box so he could be seen by all, and he in turn could see them. It had become a habit that he would address them at the start of each shift, not just the kitchen staff, but maids, and other servants.
It meant that they would all be on the same page for the day's tasks, and that they could address issues that may arise. Though like always, it always took more than one try to get the large kitchen filled with ponies to quiet down. At times, Dapper felt like a school teacher trying to hush his class before the lesson would begin.
Dapper repeated himself, this time a little louder. "Good morning everypony."
This time it had the desired effect, and everypony in the room hushed, looked at him and said in unison. "Good morning, Mr. Dash."
"Thank you," replied Dash, letting the noise settle for a few seconds before he continued. "Right, so first of all I'd like to thank the evening shift for staying over time. They really did work hard to give us a head start for today, so when you see them, be sure to thank them."
They had been preparing for this night for over two months now, and preparations had started over a week ago. It wasn't hard to understand why the palace needed to be amazing, decorated from top to bottom. There were a lot of things that had to be planned and thought of. The kitchen had for weeks negotiated the menu with the princess, they wanted to spread out the food items so there was a large selection, that would of course mean the dessert menu would be reduced. To Celestia, this was unacceptable.
It ended when Dapper stepped in and mediated the meeting. Finally, after much debate, Celestia and the kitchen had come to a compromise, and they both trotted away happy. While on the outside it might look strange, Dapper knew the kitchen was used to it, and there was never any real conflict. Celestia would have backed down if her kitchen would be overworked, but they wouldn't be. The reason the evening shift had worked over time was to give the morning shift a head start, something that would make today a lot easier.
"Other than that I think we all know what we have to do. Just a reminder, the main hallway is off limits for any staff who is not there for something specific. The maids will be cleaning and preparing for the hundreds of guests, so unless you have a reason, steer clear." The staff all nodded and muttered agreements. "Otherwise you all know what to do. Now, is there anything else before we move on?" When no one raised their hooves and made it clear they had nothing to add, he ended the morning meeting. "Alright, then let us get to work. Good luck everypony."
With that, the meeting ended, and all the staff started to go to their groups and organize their tasks. Dapper pulled out his pocket watch, checking the time to make sure they were on time. The breakfast was of course easy enough, today Celestia wanted them all to eat breakfast together, which meant Celestia, Luna, and of course their nephew, Blueblood.
So they did have some extra time to run on before breakfast had to be served, but Dapper still needed to bring Celestia her morning tea. Frost Heart was already making the tray ready as he approached, when he did, she sent him a nod. "I'll be heading out with Princess Luna after breakfast," she said. "Are you sure you can handle this yourself?"
Dapper sent a nod back. "I'm sure, though, are you sure you can keep the princess out of trouble?"
"She's not a foal, Mr. Dash, she is our princess, and a fully grown mare."
"I'm aware of that, Frost Heart, but she is a mare that is one thousand years behind. This trip should help her get up to speed, and she needs you to keep everything going smoothly, not to mention avoid any misunderstandings." Dapper exclaimed, looking into her eyes, seeing a sort of longing. Dapper liked these small verbal matches, to others it might look like small annoyances between two staff members, Dapper simply saw it as foreplay.
She smirked, though kept it well hidden as she leaned a little closer, spoke in a soft whisper. "If you do well at the gala, I might have a reward for you when I get back."
Dapper chuckled. "I could say the same for y-Ouf!" A cook bumped into Dapper, causing him to hit his body against Dapper's bad wing. The cook continued on his way, but did say sorry as he was trotting away. Dapper winced, flexed his bad wing a little. "Dammit.."
Frost frowned. "How's your wing?"
"Don't worry about it.." He responded, not wanting anypony to know about it, or overhear. But when Frost gave him a stubborn look, he relented, but still kept his voice low. "Been better, but I'll manage."
"Are you sure? We can switch, you go with princess Luna, and I'll stay here and help with the gala."
Dapper shook his head. "No, you go with princess Luna, she needs you more than me. I need to be here, this will be my first gala, so I need to be here. Besides, this is the first time the elements of harmony will be attending, I should be here to keep everything on schedule."
Frost let out a sigh. "Just don't say I didn't warn you. They are not used to attending parties such as this, and I fear they might not know what they're in for."
She had a point, Dapper knew that Celestia's star pupil, and her friends, had a habit of finding trouble. He could already see how much time he would have to spend to keep them in line. Twilight and her neediness for Celestia's attention and approval. Rainbow Dash and her obsession with the Wonderbolts. Pinkie Pie's over energetic party hype. The only ones he imagined could behave themselves was Applejack, Rarity, and Fluttershy.
Didn't matter, he had a job to do, and he would need to stay on top of things. "I'll keep a handle on things, I assure you." Taking out his pocket watch, he saw it was almost time for Celestia's sun to rise. "I need to go, the princess will be looking forward to her morning tea."
With some quick preparation, he got the tea ready, and took the trolley up through the palace. By now he knew the palace as well as his own pill pocket, although there were still sections of the palace he was not allowed to go to. Security was tight, and he understood the reason why. There were secrets the crown had to protect, although Dapper couldn't help but wonder if it was really a secret cake stash Celestia kept hidden from him, and not state secrets.
The thought was amusing, but he showed it aside as he finally reached his destination. The guards posted outside the door greeted him with a small nod, and Dapper went inside. His princess was out on the balcony, lifting the sun in one elegant motion, turning the night sky into a warm orange glow, accompanied by the last of the stubborn stars. As she finished, Dapper was pouring her tea, making it just the way she liked it, although he had added a few of his own tricks when he got hired.
Celestia soon entered, smiling as she saw him. "Good morning, Dapper Dash."
Dapper bowed his head. "Good morning, majesty."
Although they had become more friendly, and were on more casual terms when in private, Dapper still greeted her formally each morning. It was like a habit, or tradition, and Celestia had accepted it with grace, if not some slight amusement. Normally she would tell him to call her Celestia, something that had become part of their morning routine. This morning however, there was no such retort.
Dapper eyed his princess, noticing a slight forced calm, and yet with the tiniest hint of dread. He raised an eyebrow, placing her cup on the coffee table by her large couch. "You seem troubled, is anything the matter?"
"Can't hide anything from you can I, Dapper?" Celestia let out a tired chuckle. "Do not worry yourself, it is nothing serious. though if I'm being honest, I'm worried about the gala."
For the briefest of moments, Dapper wondered if her worries were of her student and her five friends, then shook it out of his head. Celestia was not like that, while a princess, and a bloody good one too, she was a mare filled with mischief. She liked to break protocol when possible, and shake up her ponies to loosen them up once in a while.
"What about the gala troubles you?"
Celestia let out a small giggle, then took a sip of her tea before answering. "I'm not sure you would understand, but.." She levitated the cup back on the table, leaned slightly back, and took a deep breath. "The grand galloping gala is to celebrate the construction of Canterlot." Dapper was quite familiar with the history, having made sure to read up about it before he started planning the event.
"After Luna's.." Celestia hesitated, a pained expression came over her. It only lasted for a few moments, then she took a deep breath, and continued. "Banishment.. We all came together to create a better future, a symbol of our hope for a better tomorrow. That dream became Canterlot. We celebrated, all of us. It was an achievement everypony had made happen together."
Her eyes seemed to be far off, as if she saw the past as it was. A sort of sparkle seemed to dance around in her dreamy expression, and she seemed to remember the past gala fondly. Then it changed to something more like sadness. "Over the years though, the gala has become more of an excuse to let nobles and celebrities mingle. Of course I understand that not every pony in Equestria would be able to attend, and I understand the fine tradition to celebrate." A hint of annoyance, or perhaps impatience entered her voice. "It used to be a grand celebration, a fun one, now.. Now it only seems to get more boring as the years go by.. I hardly participate anymore.. I pretty much shake hooves with ponies most of the night!"
"Hm.." Dapper thought it over, then looked at his princess and asked. "But your student, she will be attending this year, you could spend time with her. I have it on good authority that she is obsessed with her highness."
Celestia sent him a playful scolding look. "Be nice, Mr. Dash. My student and I have been close ever since she was a little filly, it is only natural for us to share a special bond."
Dapper inclined in head. "Of course, Celestia. Forgive me, I didn't mean to cast any shadows on your student, or her bond with you."
"I know, do not worry yourself." Celestia said as she waved her hoof, as if waving off the comment. "Still, I do hope this year will be less boring than all the other years.."
Dapper wanted to help Celestia, she was his princess, and it was his job to see to her every need. Then an idea started to form in his mind, although sadly, if he was correct, and the plan worked, it would mean hours, no, days of preparation would be ruined in a matter of hours.
He didn't like doing that to his staff, especially when he knew how many hours they had put into this. Well, he would need to make it up to them, make all of this worth it somehow. While he knew ponies in general were not petty creatures, he also knew that hard work was still hard work.
So after a few moments of thinking, he nodded to himself, took a step back, and excused himself. "If there is nothing else, I would check up on your sister, and nephew."
Celestia nodded. "Of course, Dapper. I will see you at breakfast."
Dapper bowed. "Of course, Celestia." A part of him was still getting used to, not to mention comfortable, being on a first name basis with the princesses.
He left Celestia's champers, making his way to Luna's, thinking she might be a bit groggy. She was not a morning pony, as night was pretty much her day time, and vice versa. When he knocked, and was given permission to do so, he entered the darkened room.
It was as always very pleasant, the blue colors a relaxing sight to behold. Dapper found Luna where he expected to find her, in her bed. As he approached, she opened her eyes and let out a yawn, stretching her body almost like a cat as she did so.
"Mmmm, Dapper Dash.. Why do you disturb my solitude..?" Her voice was tired, but not unfriendly. Most of all she sounded like a tired foal, one that did not want to go to school.
Dapper couldn't find it in his heart to open the curtains and let her sister's sun wake her. She was not Blueblood, and did not require such a hard morning motivation. Instead he smiled kindly, inclining his head as he spoke.
"I am sorry, Luna, but today is a big day for you. Today you go on a trip with Miss Heart, not to mention your sister wants you to eat breakfast with her." He explained, his voice low and soft, trying to gently bring her out of her slumber.
"Mmm.. That fat horse needs to..." Her voice trailed off into mumbles. Dapper was used to the sibling rivalry between the two sisters. It was interesting to see them go from being wise and experienced rulers, to acting like teenagers towards each other. One moment Celestia could be giving very complex explanations to her council of ministers, then turn around and argue with her sister about pancakes, or something so mundane you could hardly imagine it.
Dapper was so used to it by now, he could not help but find it kind of adorable. Luna was the same way, forever the younger sister who liked to mess with the older sibling. The dynamic was rather endearing, at times tiresome, but there was never any real animosity towards each other. It was all out of love, and Dapper figured it was also to make up from lost time.
"Luna, you have to get up. We need to pack your things, get you to breakfast, then we-WHaaah?!" Before he could continue, he felt Luna's magic surround him, pulling him into her bed and hugged him as if he was some plushie. "P-Princess Luna, this is-Mmfp?!" Dapper began, but was stopped as Luna's magic surrounded his muzzle and kept it firmly shut.
"Noooooo..." She groaned, pulling her butler closer. "No packing.. Just sleep.. Now be quiet.."
"Mmfh?"
Well, this wasn't good. The princess of the night, the guardian of dreams, the younger sister of the sun, had just pulled him into her bed. This was extremely embarrassing, not to mention the fact she was holding his face into her chest fluff, muffling any sound he made.
He wouldn't have minded it so much, had this been Frost Heart, or some other mare, but this was princess Luna. The mare was royalty, an alicorn, commanding great power that could lift the moon. How was he supposed to react? It felt like Hearth's Warming Eve all over again, when both of the princesses had thanked him, placing a peck on each of his cheeks.
How is any pony supposed to react to that?
Luna let out a long sigh, smiling ever so sweetly as she mumbled. "You smell nice.."
Before he could try to gently shake his princess awake, the door slowly opened. Dapper had been here long enough to recognize the way the staff opened doors when unsure. His heart sank, his face heated up, as he dreaded the presence of a servant trotting in on them.
The servant stepped into the dark room, and a mare's gasp could be heard. "I'm sorry!" The maid who had entered said, maybe louder than she would normally have been. The door closed with a loud smack, loud enough to stir Luna awake.
"Hm? Mmm, wha...?" Her eyes looked around, seeming for the first time to really see with her own eyes. Her mind seemed to be waking up, as she looked down at Dapper, first in confusion, then in silent embarrassment, until finally. "What is thou doing in our bed!!??"
Her voice was loud, but thankfully still below her royal voice. Before Dapper could even answer, he felt himself being pushed out of the bed with a lot of force. He landed on the floor, and he let out a small 'oufh' as he made contact. While Luna could not see it, Dapper winced as he felt that familiar pain hammer in his wing, but he refused to let Luna know.
He stood up, looking over to see a still embarrassed and confused princess Luna on the bed. He held up his right hoof, waving it as if dismissing her claims, like Celestia had done not long before. "Your majesty, please, calm down. You." He pointed at her. "Were the one pulling me into your bed."
Her cheeks seemed to burn even redder. "Lies! Lies I say!"
She turned her back to him, her wings flared out and hid her face from him. Dapper looked at her for a few moments, then let out a small chuckle. He could not help himself, she was just being adorable. Hearing his chuckles, Luna turned her head to face him, a puzzled expression on her face. Then soon enough, she started to giggle, and a few seconds after that, they laughed.
Dapper was surprised at himself, normally he would never laugh like this, but it felt good. The whole situation was just too comical, and the maid trotting in on them, blushing, then leaving in a panic just made everything even more absurd. The two continued to laugh, then soon enough it died down, and Luna wiped a tear from her eye with her wing.
"Oh, by the stars.." She giggled, smiling down at her faithful servant. "Forgive me, loyal Dapper Dash. I must have been more tired than I realized. I hope I did not hurt you?"
Dapper shook his head, giving her a reassuring smile. "Only my pride," he said in jest. "But in all seriousness, your ladyship does have a long day ahead."
Luna sighed, but still smiled slightly. "Not as long as yours, I imagine." She got out of her bed, using her magic to make it neat again. "You do not need to worry yourself. Miss Heart will help me pack."
Dapper watched her move towards her bathroom. "Are you sure you won't need my help with packing?"
Luna stopped, looking over her shoulder with a playful expression. "Why, Mr. Dash, you know there are certain things a mare does not wish to share with a stallion." Then she winked, trotting into her bathroom and locked the door behind her.
There was something she left behind, a stallion with a heart that seemed to flutter a little. Dapper placed a hoof over his chest, feeling funny. "Dammit.." It was a feeling he had felt ever since the princesses pecked him on the cheeks. The whole affair had changed his perspective, making him feel slightly awkward. For the most part he did his best to ignore these feelings, because, well, they were his princesses, and he was only a butler. It wasn't right to be thinking about his princesses in any sort of romantic way. Shaking his head, he chased the feelings away for now, and left to go and wake their nephew.
Like always, Prince Blueblood was sleeping in.
The young master was always sleeping in, after all, he was always out and about, having fun at the social club. It was a place for young aristocrats to have fun, eat, drink, and live off the money they inherited from their parents. Dapper did not think ill of the club, after all, it was just part of their lives. Blueblood was living his life the way he wanted it, which was fine. The only problem was, unlike the other stallions, he had no business or anything to take over. He had no reason to grow up, no reason to prepare himself for any sort of trials ahead.
The only way Dapper could think of helping him to be better was to give him a few pushes here and there. It was a little embarrassing, after all, they were around the same age, and still Dapper had to treat him like he was a teenager. It made Dapper feel old, but then again, experience had made him that way. In regards to life, he was much older than Blueblood.
Dapper knocked, got no response, but did hear noises coming from inside his apartment. Dapper's ears twitched, switching towards the door itself. Normally he would never be up at this hour?? Shrugging to himself, Dapper pushed open the door and was faced with what Dapper could only describe as a battlefield.
All around the floor there were scattered all manner of clothing, belts, ties, shoes, shirts, and blazers. He was almost afraid of walking, afraid of being swallowed up by the massive amount of clothing. Dapper however knew he had to, if he didn't, then he might lose the young master in here for several years to come.
Taking careful steps, Dapper made it deeper inside, and did fairly quickly spot Blueblood. He was tossing clothes aside, giving them a quick judging look before doing so. "Good morning, sir. How has sir been..." He noticed his tired eyes, and Dapper almost let out a loud sigh. "Sleeping.."
Blueblood suddenly turned towards him, as if it was only now he noticed that Dapper Dash had entered, which it probably was. "Dapper, my good stallion!" Blueblood quickly made his way towards him, stumbling several times over items of clothing, but never falling. "You're just the stallion I need."
Dapper inclined his head. "Thank you sir, it is nice to know one is wanted."
Blueblood waved his hoof in a dismissive manner. "Yes, yes, enough cleverness, Dapper. We have a task at hoof, and a big one at that."
"Sir, if I may be so bold to remind sir that he is to appear in the dining room to enjoy a healthy breakfast with his aunts?"
Again, Blueblood dismissed his statement with a wave of his hoof. "This is more important, Dapper. This is a matter of utmost urgency, and it could make or break me tonight."
Dapper wasn't sure if he was being serious, but deep inside he knew the young master was being exactly that. "Well, if sir would care to get ready for breakfast, I shall make sure to lay something out for sir."
Blueblood eyed his butler, or rather, his aunts butler, he finally let out a sigh and relented. "Very well, but I will personally approve your recommendation! None of this can be left to chance!"
"I see, sir.." Dapper replied, starting to pick some stuff up and put it away. "May I ask, what about tonight's gala has sir so concerned?"
"Ah!" Blueblood smiled, seeming almost ecstatic. "Dapper my good pony, tonight, I shall endeavor myself to find the one!"
"The one, sir?"
Blueblood chuckled. "The one who will be my future wife."
Mentally, Dapper felt like glass was being broken inside his nerves. Then he said, with a lot of patience in his wife. "Sir, that is a noble goal, but is sir sure he is ready to be wed?"
"Come now, Dapper." Blueblood snorted, making his way to the mirror and started to make his mane neat and proper. "It is high time I look for a wife. A gentlestallion such as myself needs a good and loyal wife. It should be the goal of every young stallion."
"As you say, sir." Dapper replied, bowing his head before continuing with his duties.
Blueblood eyed him in the mirror. "You have something on your mind, Dapper? Well, speak up, come come."
"Very good, sir." He turned toward Blueblood, and decided to put it in light tones. "To be married requires a lot of.. Effort, sir. It is not just about having a somepony by your side, but someone you can love. Not only that, but such a relationship requires work, and a certain amount of.." Dapper looked around the battlefield of clothes around him, then returned to look at Blueblood. "Maturity, sir.."
"Are you saying I am not mature?" Blueblood asked, looking at the butler with slight annoyance.
"What I am saying, sir, is that sir should think this over carefully. Is sir ready to compromise? To let go of certain lifestyles?"
Blueblood let out a laugh. "You make marriage sound like something dreadful, Dapper."
"On the contrary. Marriage is a wonderful thing, when it is built on love, and not of appearances, or the illusions of love." Dapper sounded more serious now, his voice almost like he wasn't really speaking to Blueblood, but to himself.
"You.." Blueblood looked closely at Dapper. "You speak from experience? Are you married, Dapper?"
Dapper suddenly seemed to come back. "No, no sir. I've never been married, but I know what it is like to love." Before Blueblood could ask anymore, Dapper turned to the door and headed out. "Breakfast shall be served very soon. Please do not be late, sir." And with that, Dapper left.
Normally Dapper would never leave before he had been dismissed, but in this case he had no choice. He stood in the grand hallway, his wing hurting, and his head felt heavy from the memories that had suddenly resurfaced. Sighing to himself, and making sure nopony was around, he reached into his blazer, took out two pills, and swallowed them.
If Blueblood decided to go wife hunting tonight, then he would have his hooves full making sure the young master didn't do anything stupid. Dapper didn't mind Blueblood getting married, but if he had to marry, he should be ready, and it should be with somepony that would balance the young master out. Of course, it meant Blueblood had to be ready for any potential marriage candidate, which he was not.
Dapper sighed to himself, like if he didn't have enough to do. Celestia needed to enjoy the gala, he needed to get the elements to accomplish that. Then he needed to keep an eye on Blueblood, making sure he did nothing stupid and put himself in a position that would create more troubles, not just for him, but for his aunts.
Thankfully Luna would be in good hooves, and so he did not need to worry about her. Looking at his enchanted pocket watch, he saw he had plenty of time before breakfast, enough time to go on a stroll and clear his head.
His head was spinning with many thoughts, and plans. His heart felt heavy from the many conflicting emotions. Blueblood talking about finding a wife, the kiss Celestia and Luna gave him, the whole getting close to them. Dapper had accepted his role as the princesses friend, but was it more than that?
Dapper had talked too much, letting something slip when he talked to Blueblood. Of course Dapper knew how to love, but he also knew how to lose. His heart twitched, and his wing made a twitch as a surge of pain acted up again. Dapper winced, wanting to reach into his blazer, and take a few more pills. He stopped himself though, not wanting to lose control of himself, not today, not tonight. There was too much on the line.
Still more and more doubts came to him, filling him with dread of what was to come. These feelings he had towards his ladies were dangerous, and so far he refused to acknowledge them. He couldn't, and shouldn't be feeling anything towards them. If he did, he would only be a liability, and if it came to that, he would have to give up his position as their butler.
Dapper came to a stop by the grand ballroom, it was here the main events of the gala would take place. He stepped through the large doors, looking at the beautiful decorations. A few maids were still working, but having already set most of the things up, there was no rush in their movements. Everything was being done to perfection, with a certain amount of care, and eye for detail.
A maid greeted him with a smile as he trotted deeper into the ballroom, admiring the work they had done. It served as a nice distraction, but deep inside he knew where his movements would take him, and soon enough, he was there. The grand piano stood on a stage, along with other instruments, but Dapper only had his eyes on the piano.
A part of him knew he shouldn't, but another part of him knew it was either this, or the pills. So with that in mind, he stepped up on the stage, sitting down on the stool, and let his hooves move over the keys. If the maids were watching him, he did not notice.
Instead, Dapper closed his eyes, took a deep breath, and started to play.
The world around him faded, and soon enough it was only him and the music. Slowly the pain seemed to vanish from his wing, and his mind started to relax. Even so, as he played and relaxed, he could still see two certain alicorns before his inner eye.
Dapper stood at the train station, watching as Luna prepared to leave the city. She looked excited, and yet nervous. Dapper could hardly blame her, after all, she hadn't been out of the castle since she returned as Nightmare Moon. It was a big step for her, and an important one at that.
Having missed a thousand years of progress, it was hard to wrap her head around everything without seeing it with her own eyes. Normally, Dapper would have offered to travel with her, but he had to stay and prepare for the Gala tonight. Frost Heart would be able to take care of her, so he didn't worry about any lack of education, or service.
Frost Heart was reliable, and Dapper had total faith in the maid. "Right, you got everything you need?"
Frost nodded. "Yes, I made sure the princess has everything she needs." She watched Dapper look at his watch. "Is it time?"
"Just about," he replied. "Better get onboard."
Frost nodded, starting to trot towards the train itself. "Are you sure you're going to be alright? When it comes to galas, you can't make mistakes."
Her warning was fair, and normally she would be right. "Do not worry yourself. I'm sure it will be an unforgettable night."
The maid narrowed her eyes just slightly. "Take care, Mr. Dash."
Dapper inclined his head, and watched as the maid made her way inside. He was just about to turn and leave the station, when princess Luna suddenly trotted back out. His surprise must have shown on his face, because she moved a hoof to her muzzle, and giggled slightly.
"Do not worry yourself, Mr. Dash. I am not planning to remain."
"Oh, no, no. You misunderstood, I was not worried about you staying." Dapper quickly replied, but Luna just waved off his apology with her hoof.
"Do not fret, I simply came to wish you good luck."
"Good luck with what, your majesty?"
Lina didn't answer, instead she just winked at him and boarded the train, leaving the butler confused. The whistle blew, and soon enough the train was moving away from the platform. As he watched it move away, Dapper wondered if Luna knew what he was planning, or at least, had some idea?
If she did, had she just given her blessing? Or was he simply overthinking her parting words?
Probably the latter.
Dapper returned to the palace twenty minutes later. The palace was full of activity, all around you could see palace staff get everything ready for the big night. No detail was missed, no speck of dust allowed to linger.
A part of Dapper was sad he had to ruin their efforts, because by the end of the night, if things went as he expected, there would be more ruined decorations, and much more than a speck of dust to worry them in the morning. But first things first. He had to set everything up, which meant dealing with Blueblood.
The young master had a goal tonight, finding his future wife. Sadly though, Blueblood was in no position to find a suitable match. Once the stallion could take care of himself, and life responsibly, then he was ready to tackle the trials of marriage. As things stood now he was nowhere near ready.
This would not be a fun lesson for him, but at least it could put him on the path to become a better pony.
After checking everything was going according to plan, Dapper went to the royal wing to visit Blueblood in his chambers. He found the young master as he had expected, admiring himself in the mirror. Somehow he had made quite a mess of his room while he was gone.
Before Dapper could announce himself, Blueblood was already addressing him. "Ah, good, you're here. We need to pick an outfit, and fast!"
"Young master, I do not think you need to worry. I think sir should go for something simple."
"Simple?!" He sounded almost outraged that Dapper would suggest such a thing.
"If sir wants to attract a potential wife, then sir would do well to not overdress. Let her see sir as sir is." Dapper explained, looking through the clothes, bringing it back to something that resembled order.
"Hm, you might be right. After all." He turned to the mirror, and gave his best winning smile. "Who could resist this?"
"You'd be surprised, sir."
"What was that?" Blueblood asked and looked back at Dapper.
"I was merely saying that mares might need a little more than just a smile." Dapper explained, starting to put the articles of clothes back to their homes in the closet. "If the young master wants to gain the attention of a special mare, I might have somepony in mind."
This caught Blueblood's attention. "Really? Who is it?"
Dapper paused, thinking if this was the right choice or not. Then again, he had done his homework. Entering the service of the princesses, Dapper had of course studied everypony who was close to his charges. That, combined with his talent to read ponies, he had a pretty good idea how things would go.
"Rarity Belle, sir." Dapper then replied.
"Rarity Belle... Hmm, that name does sound familiar.."
"The element of generosity, sir."
Blueblood lit up. "Ah, yes, of course! Rarity Belle, hm.. I do not know her, do you think she will be a good match?"
If Dapper was being honest, then Blueblood might get on well with Rarity, if he was a bit more mature. If Miss Belle and Blueblood were going to get on, it meant they both needed to grow up. As things stood, Dapper could not see them get along. So taking a page out of Celestia's book, this was a perfect opportunity to teach them both a valuable lesson. With luck, the two of them would grow as ponies after tonight.
"That is tricky to say with accuracy, sir." Dapper replied. "But as far as I know, you both enjoy the finer things in life, not to mention the lifestyle of the nobility."
"Perfect!" Exclaimed Blueblood, without as much as asking about anything else.
Not that Dapper had expected anything else. Blueblood had a habit of not thinking ahead, so this might be something to take away too. Though he would have to make it up to him, as if things went as he expected, then the night would not end as Blueblood would hope. As for Miss Belle, she too would not find the night so enchanting as she might hope. Thankfully, she was not so self absorbed she couldn't move on from tonight's incoming disaster.
As for the rest of the elements, he really just needed to push Rainbow Dash and Pinkie Pie, the two of them would be able to create enough chaos to make this party really interesting. As for the last remaining three, Twilight Sparkle, Applejack and Fluttershy, he could not imagine any of them contributing to any shenanigans. The worst he could expect from Twilight was her unhealthy obsession with her teacher. Fluttershy was too quiet and shy, and Applejack was too well raised.
With Blueblood set up, and his staff hard at work, Dapper made his way back to Celestia's chambers. Normally there would be only one guard outside her door, but as he approached, he found not only one, but two golden armored royal guards standing guard outside Celestia's door.
Dapper raised an eyebrow at this, but decided not to think about it for now. He approached the door, and with a swift movement, the spears of the guards moved in front of him, crossing each other like an X. Dapper stopped, and moved a step back.
"Gentlecolts, is there a problem?"
"I'm sorry, sir," said the guard on the left.
The guard on the right elaborated. "The princess has instructed us there is to be no visitors other than the maids."
"Other than the maids?" Repeated Dapper.
"Yes sir, the princess is trying on her dress."
Now Dapper understood, and he nodded. "Very good, sorry to have disturbed you. Good day."
Well, if the princess was getting ready for tonight, he likely would not see her for a few hours. Blueblood too was getting himself dolled up, and Luna was away from the palace. With his staff ahead of schedule and everything well in hoof, Dapper found himself with some time for himself. A rarity to be sure, but a welcome one.
He returned to his apartment, opening up his blazer and his vest, then finally allowed himself to plop onto his bed and let out a long breath. He was tired, and his wing hurt. Thankfully, he had the solution. With a well practiced movement, he reached into his now open blazer, and pulled out his pill bottle. Dapper popped it open, and took out two pills and swallowed them.
Instead of bothering with putting the bottle back into the inner pocket of his blazer, he simply put it back on the top, and let it rest on the bed. Soon the pills took effect, and he could feel how the pain lessened. It was never enough to make it vanish, but it was enough to keep him from going insane.
For a while Dapper just laid there, just enjoying the quiet. He wasn't tired enough to nap, nor did he have the energy needed to do anything productive with his time. Then again, sometimes it just felt good not doing anything. So for now he just laid there, letting his thoughts drift around in his mind like the clouds in the sky.
He thought back, back to when Lucky Star first mentioned the job opening. Dapper had been on his lowest point by then, and yet he decided to give the whole butler thing a try. He got a month to clear up his act, and off to the interview he went. Dapper had often wondered what he would have done if he hadn't gotten the job. Would Lucky still have tried to drag him up from the hole he had dug himself into? Or would he have given up?
Dapper didn't care to speculate on the matter too long, it brought other dark thoughts. So letting out a sigh, enjoying the feeling of the relief of his pain medicine, he thought back to him lacking a cutie mark. What he had said to those three fillies back at Ponyville had been true. He had been out looking for his special talent, then he got hurt, and now he was in Canterlot.
Life sure was strange...
The time had finally come, the Grand Galloping Gala!
Soon the guests would arrive from near and far, everypony who was anypony would trot through those grand doors and be a part of the biggest night in Equestria! Dapper had cleaned himself up, made himself look sharper, and had of course put his pills back in his blazer.
There was still a little under an hour until they could expect the first guests to arrive, and so Dapper spent what little time they had left to go over everything one more time. The food, the uniforms of the serving staff, the plans, the band, and so on. Truth be told, he really wanted to play with the great Octavia, but sadly, he doubted this would be her idea of a dream night.
Again he was reminded of the likely chaos his idea would bring, but Celestia would certainly get a much needed laugh, and have a grand time with her student. In all honesty, he doubted any of his staff would mind it. After all, all those stuffy nobles could use a bit of a shocker. Still, Dapper made a mental note to reward them for their efforts at the gala. At least it would still make it worth it.
As he stood there and looked over the final details, the door to the grand ballroom opened, and in walked Princess Celestia herself. Everypony turned towards her and bowed deeply, last to do so was Dapper who turned, and froze. There she stood, regal and beautiful as ever, but this time she wore a very elegant gala dress.
This may be one of those rare times Celestia could actually read him like an open book, because she blushed slightly and held a hand to her mouth as she giggled lightly. "Please, Mr. Dash, you are embarrassing me." She said in a mild teasing tone.
Dapper blushed a little himself, realizing he had been starting. Quickly he lowered his head and bowed. "Please forgive my indiscretion, your majesty."
Celestia rolled her eyes playfully, and trotted to stand beside him and look at the ballroom. "I must say, the staff has outdone itself this year."
"Yes," replied Dapper, as he turned around to marvel at the feat that had been accomplished. "They have been working very hard. I will have them rewarded for their efforts after the gala. A lot of overtime and dedication has gone into this evening, so if anyone deserves the recognition, it is them."
Celestia smiled. "Sounds like an excellent idea, Mr. Dash."
"Thank you, ma'am." Dapper took out his watch, and looked at the time. "The guests should be arriving shortly."
"Right.." Celestia let out a small sigh. "I better get ready to greet everypony."
"Do you need any refreshments first?"
"No thank you, Dapper. I'll be fine, but if you could please be close for now. It can get rather dull up there." Even though she said that in a calm and controlled tone, he could sense the small pleading voice behind it.
So Dapper inclined his head. "Of course, ma'am. I shall be right by your side." She didn't answer, instead she just smiled, seemingly pleased by his answer.
Soon enough the guests started to arrive. The press was of course having a field day, but thanks to the royal guard, they were controlled, and the guests could make their way inside in an orderly fashion.
Celestia herself sat in the great entry hall of the palace, greeting everypony one by one before they continued inside. So other than the glamor, Dapper quickly understood why Celestia would feel the gala was so boring and lifeless. Dapper himself sat near her, not right beside her, as he was not her equal in status, but a little behind her so he could always be at her service if needed.
"Welcome to Canterlot, I do hope you have a wonderful time." Celestia told another pair of ponies.
Dapper frowned, feeling sorry for his princess. "Is her majesty sure she would not like something to drink?"
"I would rather not." She replied. "This will take some time, so I can't risk drinking too much."
"I see. If her majesty thinks of anything that will make her duty more comfortable, please let me know."
Celestia sends him a discreet smile. "Thank you, Dapper, honestly."
Dapper felt his cheeks burn slightly, and he sent her a small sincere smile back. "Not at all.." Suddenly Dapper felt something shift in the air, and Celestia seemed to do so as well, because her ears twisted straight up and forward.
She smiled, amused. "It would seem the elements have arrived."
"It would seem so." Dapper agreed, feeling the song magic in the air. Thankfully, it seemed the musical was taking place outside, and not in here. "If her majesty will excuse me for a moment."
"Of course, Mr. Dash."
Dapper left Celestia, then vanished into the crowd to go to a window and see if he could spot the elements of harmony. Took him one second to spot them, and as expected, they were singing.
At the Gala, At the Gala. At the Gala, in the garden I'm going to see them all!
All the creatures, I'll befriend them at the Gala! (at the Gala!) All the birdies, and the critters They will love me big and small! We'll become good friends forever Right here at the Gala!
All our dreams will come true right here at the Gala, at the Gala!
At the Gala (it's amazing!), I will sell them (better hurry!) All my appletastic treats! (yummy, yummy!) Hungry ponies (they'll be snacking!), they will buy them (bring your money!) Caramel apples, apple sweets! (gimme some!) And I'll earn a lot of money for the Apple family!
All our dreams and our hopes from now until hereafter All that we've been wishing for will happen at the Gala, at the Gala!
At the Gala, all the royals They will meet fair Rarity. They will see I'm just as regal at the Gala! (at the Gala) I will find him, my Prince Charming And how gallant he will be He will treat me like a lady, tonight at the Gala!
This is what we've waited for, to have the best night ever! Each of us will live our dreams, tonight at the Gala, at the Gala!
Been dreaming, I've been waiting To fly with those brave ponies The Wonderbolts, their daring tricks Spinning 'round and having kicks Perform for crowds of thousands They'll shower us with diamonds The Wonderbolts will see me right here at the Gala!
All we've longed for, all we've dreamed, our happy ever after! Finally will all come true, right here at the Grand Gala, at the Gala!
I am here at the Grand Gala, for it is the best party But the one thing it was missing was a pony named Pinkie For I am the best at parties, all the ponies will agree Ponies playing, ponies dancing, with me at the Grand Gala!
Happiness and laughter at the Gala, at the Gala!
At the Gala (at the Gala), with the Princess (with the Princess) Is where I'm going to be (she will be) We will talk all about magic and what I've learned and seen (she will see) It is going to be so special as she takes time just for me!
This will be the best night ever! Into the Gala we must go, we're ready now, we're all aglow Into the Gala, let's go in and have the best night ever Into the Gala, now's the time, we're ready and we look divine
Into the Gala, meet new friends! Into the Gala, sell some apples! Into the Gala, find my prince! Prove I'm great as a Wonderbolt!
To meet! To sell! To find! To prove! To whoop! To talk!
Into the Gala, into the Gala! And we'll have the best night ever! At the Gala!
Dapper watched as they all made their way inside, and the song ended with the little dragon being ignored. He couldn't help but feel bad for the little guy, but he could not do much about it for now. Instead he stepped forward to greet the most eager of all ponies.
"Miss Sparkle, welcome to Canterlot. I'm sure you're eager to see pri-" Twilight completely ignored him, or was too focused on her destination that she simply didn't see Dapper as she sped past him and ran directly up the stairs to greet the princess. "Alright.." As he turned around, he saw the rest of the elements had left as well, leaving him alone with Spike.
Spike was the first from the group who actually seemed to notice him. "Oh hey, you're Celestia's butler, aren't you."
"It would be hard for me to deny." Dapper admitted. "You are young master Spike, Miss Sparkle's number one assistant."
The young Dragon seemed to puff out his chest in pride. "You bet I am, the one and only!"
Dapper inclined his head in greeting. "It is good to meet you, master Spike. But do tell me, aren't you a bit young to be attending this year's Gala?"
Spike froze for a moment, looking like a kid who had been caught stealing cookies from the jaw. "Well, you know.. Twilight brought me, but..."
"She has left to chat with the princess." Dapper finished, reaching into his pocket and pulled out some bits. "You've grown up here in Canterlot, have you not?"
"Yes, why?"
"Then you should be familiar with Donut Joe?"
Spike seemed to light up with both understanding and recognition. "Donut Joe! Yes, I know the place, Best Donuts in Equestria!"
Dapper smiled. "I dare to agree." He then handed Spike the Bits. "You should go there and enjoy yourself."
Spike looked confused. "But I got a ticket."
"You do, but.." He looked around. "I don't think this is your scene. If so, by all means go on ahead and enjoy yourself, but with your friends.." He noticed Rarity go after Blueblood, just as he expected. "Preoccupied. I don't think you will have a lot of fun."
Spike frowned, seeing Rarity go after an unknown stallion, and pretty much everypony, even Twilight, go and do their own things. "Hm.." He looked down at the Bits in his claws, and considered for a moment. "You might have a point."
Dapper didn't mind Spike being here, this was just him giving the lad a way out. "Do not worry yourself, I have a feeling your friends will be with you again before the evening comes to an end."
"Really?"
Dapper sent him a small encouraging smile. "Trust me."
That seemed to be enough for Spike, at least for now. With no friends to hang out with, he might as well go enjoy himself somewhere else. Dapper still felt sorry for him, but sadly, his friends seemed to focus so much on their own ambitions that they would not get a chance to have fun together. Their little musical had made that very clear to him.
No matter, this seemed the perfect opportunity to set his plans into motion.
The first thing on his evil plan to do list was to set Blueblood on the right path. The master seemed so sure about his own charm, that this should be a pretty good lesson for him. Hopefully it would open him up to some humility, but Dapper wouldn't hold his breath.
Trotting out into the garden, he quickly spotted Blueblood enjoying himself by the pond. He seemed to have spotted Dapper as well, because when their eyes met, he waved him over. Wasting no time, Dapper trotted over to him and inclined his head.
"Does sir require anything?"
"Yes, sir does." Blueblood said, sounding a little smug, as if he had just landed a great verbal comeback. "You spoke of this mare earlier today? Belle?"
"Yes sir, Rarity Belle."
"Rarity Belle, what a name! When can I meet her?" Blueblood seemed awfully excited about this, so much so that it took Dapper by surprise.
"Right now, if sir wishes it."
"Of course I do!"
"Very good. She is right over by the rose bushes. Why don't sir go over and introduce himself?"
Blueblood smiled, putting on what Dapper assumed was his charming look. "I think I shall do just that."
"Don't be shy, sir. Show her who exactly you are."
"I shall!"
And with that, Blueblood trotted towards Rarity. Dapper hid a smile, as he really wanted to see how this would play out. Sadly, he had other duties, but a small peak wouldn't hurt. He saw how Blueblood approached Rarity, and introduced himself.
"Well hello. I am Prince Blueblood."
Rarity blushed, looking away as she introduced herself. "I am Rarity." She looked ahead again, looking at one of the roses. "Oh, my, what a lovely rose."
"You mean.." Blueblood took the rose from the bush with his teeth, and seemingly presented it to Rarity. "This rose?" Dapper had to admit, Blueblood was during rather well. He could be very charming when he wanted to be, and for a moment, Dapper thought he had underestimated Blueblood. But then, right on cue, he changed direction as he suddenly pulled it back and placed it in his collar. "Thank you. It goes with my eyes."
Dapper couldn't help but feel bad for Rarity as she looked at him with a mix of disappointment and disbelief. On the other hoof, he wanted to laugh at Blueblood's complete lack of self-awareness. For now, it didn't seem Dapper would have to worry about how things would go with the two of them. So he moved back towards the palace.
On his way, he spotted Fluttershy vanishing into the deeper parts of the royal garden, and Applejack setting up something that looked like some sort of food stand. Who would set up a food stand when they were invited to a royal gala? As much as it baffled Dapper, he continued to trot towards the palace.
In the midst of one of the grand salons, the Wonderbolts were busy chatting with fans, and donors for charities. Dapper had to admit, the Wonderbolts were great to promote good causes. While he would not admit it, he was a bit of a fan of their work. Well, a big fan..
Sadly, he was not here for them, but for a certain rainbow maned mare. Didn't take him long to spot her. She was trying to make her way towards them, but she was not the only pony who wished to talk to them. Dapper couldn't blame her, although he did find some amusement in seeing her trying. Right now she was too busy trying to get noticed, so Dapper let her exhaust her possibilities before he would approach her.
"Hey, Spitfire! Have you ever done a rain cloud double back flip?!"
"Have you ever swerved past lightning?! It's awesome!"
It didn't matter how much she tried, what she said, or how loud she said it. Rainbow simply couldn't get their attention. Dapper found himself amused, and a little frustrated. He really wanted to tell her that she was not the only Wonderbolt fan in the world, and others might like a chance to speak to them too.
Then he reminded himself of his evil and yet ingenious plan, and so he forced the condemning thoughts out of his mind. He was about to ruin the night for a lot of ponies, but if he knew his princess well enough, it would all end with a friendship lesson and some laughs.
After some time, Rainbow sort of faded into the background, looking a bit lost and majorly disappointed. Dapper knew this was the time to set the next part of his plan into motion.
Rainbow let out a sigh. "This isn't hanging out.."
"Good evening, Miss Dash. Are you having a good time at the gala?" Dapper asked, as if he hadn't spent the last five minutes watching her fail to get her hero's attention.
Rainbow looked at him, looking slightly surprised. "Oh, you're that butler dude."
Dapper inwardly cringed. "Yes, I am indeed that butler 'dude'."
"What are you doing here?"
"Well, as Miss Dash might recall, I work here. To which I am currently engaged in my duties, making sure all the guests are having a good time." He explained, being his usual calm and yet sarcastic self, which reminded him to take another dose of pain medicine soon. "I noticed you look rather upset."
"I didn't understand any of that, but yeah, I am upset!" Rainbow replied promptly. "The Wonderbolts asked me to hang out, but I can't get their attention."
"Hm, I see.. Well Miss Dash, I might have an idea that just might help you."
"Really?!"
"Yes, really. If they don't notice you, you have to make them notice you." Normally that nopony would take such vague advice, but Rainbow at this point was willing to try anything to get to hang out with her heroes.
"Yeah, you're right!"
"Let them see just how awesome you are." He gestured to the guests. "Why not try something now?"
"Good idea!" Rainbow smiled, clapping Dapper on the shoulder. "You're alright."
Dapper inclined his head. "Thank you, that means a lot."
And that was all it took, honestly Dapper was surprised how easy this was. She acted just as he expected, although a little more reckless than he would have liked to imagine, it would do the trick. Rainbow slammed into another guest, sending him flying through the air, only to then be saved by Rainbow herself in the hopes of being noticed! For now it failed.. So she would have to try something else...
Dapper smirked, turned, and made his way to the door. On his way, he noticed Blueblood trotting with Rarity. He wanted to see how it was going, but sadly he had to hurry to his next target. Although, he did hear Blueblood say something along the lines.
"Rarity, stop! One would hate to slip. One's cloak should take care of the problem."
Dapper made his way to the grand ballroom, it was here the band was playing, and ponies should dance. Only they didn't. Again, he had to agree, this gala was not all it was rumored to be. Still, the music was amazing, and before he moved on to his next part of his evil plan, he took his time to admire and absorb the music. Especially from the cello player, she was truly amazing.
He stood there listening for maybe five minutes, before his ears heard a sad voice sing in the background. "I'm at the grand galloping gala... And it's not what I dreamed..."
"I am so sorry to hear that, Miss Pie." Dapper said as he approached the pink mare.
Pinkie looked at the stallion and smiled. "Oh, Dapper Dash! How have you been?!" Before he could answer, Dapper found himself being hugged tightly.
"Ahm! I'm fine, Miss Pie, just fine. I just couldn't help but overhear that the gala is not what you had hoped for."
Pinkie let go of him, and her large smile dropped into a deep frown. "No.. Ponies don't seem like they want to have fun and party at all.."
"Oh dear.. Well, you will have to help them."
"Help them?" Pinkie repeated, tilting her head in puzzlement.
"Yes, help them enjoy this party. I mean, that is your special talent after all, and I'm sure once the evening is done, you will have some good memories of this evening."
Pinkie gasped, then hugged Dapper again. "Oh my gosh, you're right, Mr. Dashie! I know just what to do!"
And just like that she vanished. For a brief moment Dapper lost track of her, but soon spotted up on stage, whispering to the musicians. Dapper cringed, he hoped this was not going to be another song. Maybe this was cosmic karma..
Pinkie Pie moved to the microphone, and just as you would expect from Pinkie Pie, she opened her mouth and got everypony's attention. "Come on, everypony! I know what'll make you shake those groove things!" She signaled the band, and it began.
You reach your right hoof in You reach your right hoof out You reach your right hoof in And you shake it all about You do the Pony Pokey meeting lots of folks with clout That's what I'm talking about
You step your left hoof in You pull it right back out You step your left hoof in But you better help him out You do the Pony Pokey but should find a different route That's what it's all about
You kick your back left in You pull your back left out You reach your back left in Just be brave and have no doubt You do the Pony Pokey feeling like you're gonna pout That's what I'm singing about
You tilt your head in You tilt your head out You tilt your head in Then you shake it all about You do the Pony Pokey even though your date's a lout You're better off without
You stomp your whole self in You stomp your whole self out You stomp your whole self in And you stomp yourself about You do the Pony Pokey and you give a little shout-
COME OUT!
That's what I'm talking about
You do the Pony Pokey You do the Pony Pokey You do the Pony Pokey And that's what it's all about
Yeah!!
Dapper watched for the reaction, and of course some snobby noble mare scolded Pinkie for singing. "Young lady, this is not that kind of party!"
Okay, a bit harsher than Dapper would have liked. Looking up at Pinkie, he for a moment worried that she might have hurt, or that she would give up, but instead he got exactly what he needed.
"Oh-o-o-o-o! They don't want to party. These ponies want to PA-A-A-RTY!
Perfect...
Having put all his pieces into motion, Dapper considered returning to Celestia to see if she needed anything. However, when he spotted Blueblood still trotting with Rarity, this time back into the garden, he could not help but to follow. He was curious to see if Blueblood had improved his behavior, or if he still had no clue.
The couple trotted to where Applejack was still standing, trying to sell her apple treats. Dapper kept out of sight, watching as Rarity ordered two apple fritters. Applejack happily placed them on her makeshift counter, and then the most unbelievable thing happened.
"Ahem."
"Ahem."
Blueblood was seriously expecting Rarity to pay for the treats?! At this Dapper could only marvel, as even he had not counted on the young master being so tone deaf! Wasn't he the one looking for a bride?! Then what was this?! Dapper could only marvel at the display, and cringe as Applejack herself offered to pay for her own products.
Unfortunately, that wasn't the end of it. To his astonishment, Blueblood took one bite of the fritter, and then proceeded to gag and vomit. Dapper almost lost his jaw at this display.
"Fritters! Dumplings! Caramel apples! My royal lips have touched common carnival fare!" The young master stuck his nose as high as Dapper had ever seen it, and proceeded to trot off with Rarity following behind him. "I'm going to the buffet for some hors D'oeuvres."
For the first time this evening, Dapper actually felt bad for both Rarity, and for Applejack. As he approached her, he could hear her cursing. "Well, no wonder no pony wants my food! They're filling up on all those fancy schmancy vittles!"
"Good evening, Miss Apple." Dapper greeted as he trotted closer.
Applejack was a bit startled at first, but smiled when she recognized him. "Well I'll be, if it isn't Mr. Dash himself. What can I do for you, partner?"
"One apple fritter please." Dapper smiled politely, getting out two bits. Applejack happily got one more out, and Dapper eagerly ate the sweet pastry. He hadn't really eaten anything since lunch, so this really hit the spot. "Mmm, now that's what I call a fritter."
Applejack beamed. "Old family recipe!"
Dapper nodded. "Indeed? Well that explains the good taste then. Years of experience and love." Now Applejack was almost blushing with pride from the praise. "Too bad business hasn't been going well."
Some of Applejack's pride left her, and she let out a sigh. "You can say that again. I thought this would be a perfect opportunity to earn my family some extra money."
Dapper shrugged. "Well, maybe all you need to do is to dress your cakes up a bit."
"Hm?"
"Your apples are very good, it would be a shame if every pony thought they were no better than mere carnival snacks."
The more Applejack listened, the more she nodded. "Hot dang, you're right, partner! I just need to prove it to them!" She smiled, and a certain determined look came about her. "Mighty kind of you."
"Don't mention it."
Applejack started to push her stand away, what exactly she had planned Dapper had no idea, but hopefully it would help her a bit. Alone again, Dapper took out his bottle, swallowed two pills, and relaxed his tense muscles. So far he didn't feel like he'd had a break since the gala started.
Thinking about the events, he noted the only two ponies he hadn't interacted with in some way, were Twilight Sparkle, and Fluttershy. Though Twilight was with Celestia, getting the attention she clearly needed. As for Fluttershy, she was likely still in the garden somewhere, enjoying the company of the animals. No reason to pull her into the mix.
As he trotted back towards the palace, he suddenly felt like lightning had struck, and the sense somepony somewhere was laughing maniacally. He shrugged it off though, thinking it was just his imagination.
A few minutes later, Dapper returned to Celestia, who was still sitting at her spot by the stairs. Next to her was the pony he was expecting, Twilight Sparkle. The personal student of his employer. Dapper had to admit, a part of him kinda found it funny how much Twilight was disappointed that she could not be alone with the princess.
His feelings didn't come from malice, or because he didn't like her. But after making such a big deal of not having enough tickets for the gala, she sure didn't seem to have needed them. She came off a little spoiled, but not in a nasty way. He knew she was a kind and well meaning pony, but she really could be quite... Unique.
Celestia noticed Dapper, and smiled as he approached them. "Everything alright, Mr. Dash?"
Dapper inclined his head. "Yes, ma'am. Everything is going according to plan."
"Very good."
Now Twilight noticed him, and while she smiled at him, she could tell she wanted to be alone with Celestia. Too bad. He had his duty here, and so he sat on the princess's other side, a little behind her as usual. He glanced at Twilight. "I had a chance to see your friends, Miss Sparkle."
Twilight turned her head and looked at him. "Are they having fun?"
Dapper shrugged, looking forward again as he spoke. "Fun is not the word I would use. I would say they are rather focused."
"Focused?"
"Indeed," replied Dapper. "It would seem they have all come here for a specific purpose. It's too bad."
Twilight narrowed her eyes. "What is?"
"The fact you would all come here together, but not to have fun together. Even young master Spike was left to his own devices."
Twilight seemed slightly shaken by that revelation. "What, Spike?"
"Do not worry. He decided to go to this Donut place in Canterlot."
"Donut Joe's?"
"Yes, that's the one." Nodded Dapper. "It is kind of strange.. You see, I thought the whole point of asking for more tickets from the princess was so you could all be together and have fun?"
Twilight froze up, seeming a little embarrassed, if not a little hurt. Dapper noticed Celestia started to open her mouth. Being to defend Twilight and tell Dapper off, or give her two cents on the matter, he did not know. He never had a chance to find out, because suddenly a loud sound came from down the hall, it sounded like screams, followed by the sounds of several heavy things falling to the floor.
There was a deep silence followed after this strange crash, and the three of them decided to investigate. Without any words, the three of them made their way to the side hallway, and down the grand ballroom. The sight that met them was beyond anything Dapper could have anticipated. He had imagined music, some cake on the floor, but the sight that met him was beyond anything he could have imagined.
A golden statue on the floor, several pedestals fallen over. There was cake on the floor, sure, along with dust and rocks. Frankly, Dapper was speechless. But, as is so rarely the case, Twilight was not. Dapper was sure he could hear her gulp, and then utter. "Well, it can't get any worse."
Before any other words could be said, a sudden rumbling caught their attention. The whole floor was shaking, and whatever was coming sounded like an army. The golden doors to the garden flew open with a loud crack, and stormed several animals. It seemed like the whole animal population of the garden was running from something, but what?!
As the dust settled, a lone figure stood at the door, panting. To Dapper's disbelief, it looked like a very tired and frustrated Fluttershy!
"YOU'RE GOING TO LOVE ME!!"
Fluttershy's crazed expression was something that made Dapper want to take a step back in horror, but he stood firm. The same could not be said for the other guests, complete chaos broke out everywhere. By this time, Dapper knew the whole situation had gone out of control, and with no other alternative in sight, he looked at the princess with as calm expression as he could muster.
"Princess, might I suggest a hasty retreat?! I happen to know a place nearby!"
Celestia eagerly nodded, turning to Twilight and told her to, "run!"
Twilight didn't need an explanation, instead she whistled for her friends, and soon enough they were all making their way out of the chaotic palace. Dapper tried to spot Blueblood, wanting to make sure he was alright if he was nearby, but an animal or a pony bumped into him, and Dapper quickly lost his balance and fell.
"Oufh!"
In the pony filled hallway, no pony saw him fall down. But that was not his biggest concern, as he fell to the floor, he heard something move across the floor. Something that sounded like a plastic bottle filled with pills. His eyes widened instantly, and just as he feared, he saw his prescription bottle just ahead of him.
Before he could reach out and take it, a purple hoof stretched out to help him up, while a purple magic aura surrounded his medication and levitated it up from the floor. As Dapper stood up, he saw the one pony he didn't want to see right now. Twilight Sparkle...
She read the label, and of course she looked startled. If she put it together with his wing, Dapper didn't know. He simply snatched the bottle from her without a word, took her hoof, and quickly moved down the hall and to safety before they fell behind.
Quickly they made their way outside, meeting up with Twilight's friends, but no Celestia. "Where's the princess?" Twilight asked, seeming to forget about what she had just seen, at least for now.
"She said to follow Dapper Dash!" Pinkie said with a smile. "She had something to take care of."
"Probably the animals." Applejack put in, which made Fluttershy shrink a little.
The mares turned to Dapper, and he gave them a nod. "This way, ladies."
A blue mug slammed down on the counter. "Hey, Pony Joe, another Donut."
A concerned Donut Joe made his way over to his tiny customer. "Don't you think you've had enough?"
A valid concern, but Spike wouldn't hear any of it. "Another donut! Extra sprinkles!"
The door to the store opened, and Joe looked over and smiled. "Twilight Sparkle, haha. Long time, no see."
Spike turned around, surprised to find his six friends looking tired, and anything but fabulous as they had when they arrived. The seventh member of the group stayed in the background, but Spike could see it was the butler he had talked with when they first arrived.
The little dragon jumped down from his seat, and quickly made his way over to his friends. "Hey, how was the gala? How was your best night ever?"
Dapper passed the group, greeted Joe, and ordered all of them some donuts and coffee to relax on. Soon after, Twilight and her friends had told Spike everything. Dapper however stayed by the counter, and sipped on his own coffee in silence, listening to the tales of the evening.
"That sounds like the worst night ever." Spike announced once the girls finished their stories.
"It was!" Said all the mares in unison, then burst out laughing.
Twilight suddenly frowned, letting out a small sigh. "I just hope princess Celestia isn't upset with us for ruining the gala."
"That was the best Grand Galloping Gala ever!" Cheered a well known voice.
Everypony turned their heads in surprise, and all exclaimed in unison. "Princess Celestia!"
"Pardon me, princess, but tonight was just awful." Twilight said, her tone confused.
Celestia just smiled as she made her way over to the table. "Oh, Twilight, the Grand Galloping Gala is always awful."
Twilight cocked her head to the side in confusion. "It is?"
"That is why I was thrilled you were all attending. I was hoping you could liven things up a bit." Dapper smirked slightly hearing that, and as Celestia continued, he placed the bits he owed Donut Joe for the coffee. "And while the evening may not have gone as you planned, I'm sure you'll agree that in the end, it didn't turn out so bad for this group of friends."
Twilight smiled, happy to get another lesson from her teacher. "You're right, princess. Friends have a way of making even the worst of times into something pretty great."
"Yeah!" Exclaimed Rainbow Dash. "Hanging out with friends."
"Talking." Fluttershy put in, followed by Pinkie.
"Laughing!"
Spike smirked smugly, and placed his claws on his hips. "You mean doing exactly what I wanted to do the whole time?"
"Yes, Spike. You were right." Twilight smiled.
"As horrible as our night was...." Said Applejack.
Rarity nodded in agreement. "Being together here has made it all better."
"In fact, it's made it.." Started Pinkie, and all of the six friends said exactly what she was thinking.
"The best night ever!"
Another round of laughter. When it had died down, Applejack frowned. "I'm just sad I didn't get anypony to try the special cake I made."
"You made a special cake?!" Pinkie asked.
"Mhm, Dapper Dash suggested I make one to attract more of the nobility."
"Oh, he helped you too!?" Pinkie grinned. "He told me to liven things up!"
Rainbow raised an eyebrow. "He told me to try and get noticed by the Wonderbolts."
Now the girls were looking at one another, trying to see if he had helped others, but when no pony else said anything, they started to look for the pony in question.
"Wait.. Where is Dapper Dash?"
Celestia looked towards his seat by the counter, but only saw his cup with coffee, and the small pile of Bits. She frowned, wanting to know why he had not joined them. Then again, Dapper Dash was still very much a mystery to her.
Canterlot Palace.
The animals had by this point been calmed down and returned to the garden. The food had been taken out, but the stone pillars and mud around the grand ballroom had been left as is. Dapper had told his staff not to bother with it at this hour.
So here he sat, alone in the grand hall, moving his hooves over the keys of the piano. After this night, he had earned a little me time, and so he played the piano, enjoying the music, and allowing himself to lose himself in it.
When the music died down, he leaned forward, letting out a tired sigh. By this point he had taken off his blazer, loosened his tie, and placed it on stool. Without looking, his hoof moved down to it, and quickly found what he was looking for. Guiding it back up, he looked at the orange bottle in his hoof, thinking back to earlier in the evening.
Twilight had seen it, and she had read the label. Her of all mares.. She hadn't mentioned it to him yet, not confronted it. He was thankful for that, but he could not know with certainty that she would not say something to Celestia. While his medication was not illegal, he didn't want anypony to know about it, especially the princesses.
They would look at him with pity, and moreover, his competence would be brought into question each time he took a pill. Dapper didn't want that kind of attention, nor did he need that kind of pity. He didn't want them to feel sorry for him..
"Dammit.." He opened the bottle, took out three pills. He stared at them for a moment, wondering if he was being rational about this. Letting out a sigh, he put the pills into his mouth, swallowed, and then started to play again.
His music reached the ears of no pony.. He was quite...
"
