At Your Service
by DanishDash
First published
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.
(Just a bit slice of life to do when bored. Chapters can come spontaneously.)
Prologue
Tik, tok, tik, tok, tik, tok...
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?"
Chapter 1: The Butler
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.
"Duty calls.."
Author's Notes:
A small intro to a small slice of life story I've been playing with.
Chapters will be released whenever, though not a serious project of mine, I still like the theme and the idea. So I hope you will give it a chance, and if not, then thank you for have given it a chance.
Chapter 2: The Nephew
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..
Chapter 3: Hired
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.
Damn him.. She thought.
Chapter 4: Morning Routine
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 none 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.
This was going to be a long day..
Author's Notes:
Next one coming up is his Lunch Routine, and then the chapter after that dinner. ;)
Or afternoon tea, whatever I feel would be fun.
Chapter 5: Lunch Routine
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. "I'll have something tomorrow, give me time to think it over."
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.
"Dapper.."
"I'll get you some cake," he replied with a sigh.
"Thank you Dapper."
Author's Notes:
That covers lunch, next up is dinner!
And I know in the show Twilight informed Celestia about the dragon, but I just call BS in this story. If the dragon was really a big threat Celestia would probably have gotten her cake heavy ass in gear and lend a hoof.
So this is my spin on that, but don't worry. Twilight is not insane in my story, just thought it be fun to explain why Celestia didn't help with something that could effect all of Equestria.
Chapter 6: Dinner Routine
Author's Notes:
Quick note!
Sorry I screwed up the timeline for the gala, so I went back to change some of the dialogue to fit it better. Since we are only at season 1 episode 7 we still have to get through fall and winter. I also have to switch two episodes for it to make a bit more sense.
Sorry guys, my bad!
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.