Chapters "Alright my little sister: open your eyes!"
Luna lifted the blindfold off her eyes: Standing in the midst of Manehatten she faced a brown door hanging between two long windows. Looking upwards white letters with yellow border spelled out 'CelesTea'.
She lifted an eyebrow Luna and turned her face, only to meet her sister's excited eyes. She hesitated, took a long breath, and finally spoke up: "Thou hast got to be kidding me, sister."
"But Luna," Celestia's face turned serious, "just yesterday while I watched you play videogames I told you how happy I would be if I could open up a Tea Store." Celestia gave her still confused sister a moment to gather her memories. After a few seconds faded Luna explained: "I was paying attention to defeating the evil timberwolves and rescuing the lost wizard from their forest of mischief. Why would you ask me something this important while I am being a hero?"
Silence. That is if you ignore all the noise of the countless passengers flooding through the streets. It wasn't too long however until Celestia lifted her voice: "Well... now that the place is bought you might as well follow me inside and let me give you a tour." She smiled briefly before stepping through the entrance.
Unable to stop her eager sister from entering Luna sighed and mumbled: "I'm not even going to complain about you just buying instead of renting the place."
Still baffled and overwhelmed Luna had to take another breath before finding her way through the door.
On the first impression the interior didn't even look bad.
To her dismay Luna had to admit to herself that the store made her feel a little cozy and the quiet, relaxing music playing in the background soothed her out. Sort of reminds me of the Ti-Kap Restaurant from Wild West Winter 3.
She looked back at Celestia, then regretted doing so.
She knew her expression all too well. Her older sister always wore it when she won an argument, proved Luna wrong or patronized her in some way. A slight, innocent smile accompanied by eyes silently singing I told you so. But before Luna could prevent her from speaking it out loud Celestia gave off a sheepish self-aware chuckle. And with a voice of pure honesty and respect she asked: "So, how do you like it?"
Annoyed more by her innocent honesty than by the fact her sister just bought a whole store, Luna swallowed: "It sure is - something." She didn't want to admit to liking it but neither wanted to tell a lie. "I suppose it's okay."
It's not going to work out anyway and in a week or two this phase will hopefully be over. She cannot possibly be serious about starting a whole business and spending every day selling tea to other ponies. Her thoughts provided Luna some rest. Then again she is kinda crazy about her tea.
"You think it's bad? If you have any ideas please share them!" Celestia's eyebrows narrowed. After Luna didn't respond she continued: "Personally I do quite enjoy the general wooden vintage style and the paintings hanging over there," she raised her hoof and pointed toward the opposite wall. "Or is it the music that makes it uncomfortable? I already considered changing it to something foreign maybe."
Gathering all the positive energy left in her Luna's voice grew more enthusiastic: "No it's all fine. What I mean is it would be quite nice if this store of yours works out. You sure have the ambition to make something out of it." She turned to find the exit. "I wish you the best of luck, dear sister."
Celestia's expression brightened as she heard those words. "Thank you!" Luna opened the door. "Wait, wouldn't you like it if we both-" The ringing of the doorbell supressed Celestia's last words. She sighed, then finished the sentence: "...shared the experience?"
Struck by the realisation that Luna just left her Celestia formed a face of disbelief.
"Only yesterday she enjoyed this idea. She nodded and said she would like it. Especially the pun in the name - But maybe exactly that is the problem! How silly of me to name it only after one of us." Celestia sighed, then shook her head. "No this is probably not what upsets her. As she said, she was focused on her videogame. I should have known she did not pay as much attention."
Another ring of the bell interrupted Celestias train of thought. She swiftly turned her attention back to the entrance: "Sister! You came ba-"
Around his beige coat the pony wore light blue clothes with a right shoulderpocket, a small brown bag hanging around the neck and two pairs of equally brown shoes. He cleared his throat and took a hold of the situation: "Delivery for miss-" he stuttered, "princ- ex princess," his voice grew unsure of how to adress the former ruler of Equestria herself. After a few seconds of starting and interrupting himself the stallion settled for "Delivery for CelesTea. 13 packets containing teabags of varying flavors ordered from the DreamTea fields. That correct?"
Celestia nodded and made her way to the register.
"Celestia is fine," she smiled firmly. After all she wanted to live like a normal pony now. Well, despite her outward appearance and the few thousand years of lifetime. At least she tried her best to fit in.
"Celestia," His voice grew more confident and he stopped his vain efforts in hiding his country accent, "ya're joining the tea business now? Word o' advice it can get real tough real fast out here. After all this is the business capitol o' Equestria. No offense but ya better don't underrate the effort other ponies put into their business. Don't expect to win on the market just 'cause ya used to run this country."
While it was true that she couldn't just magically somehow win on the market , as he phrased it, Celestia still didn't quite find any problems that would come up with beginning a business. How hard could it be? She took some bits out of the register and made her way back to tip him.
"I appreciate your concern. But I am quite certain that I am capable of handling this just fine. After all everypony likes tea and when they need new supply I am here to provide for them." Her face was enlightened by a wide grin of passion. However, the mailspony wasn't impressed. Thanking for the bits he turned to the door and glanced over his shoulder.
"Don't say I didn't warn ya." He moved on through the door, "I'll put the packets in front o' the store. Good luck and till next time."
Once again the bell rang and Celestia was left alone. Well that was something. He supposedly means to be kind but it really cannot be that difficult to run this store. As I told him many ponies love tea and will buy it. So besides buying it and selling for an incremented price there is nothing to worry about, right? She sat down and watched him through the window as he unloaded the packets. 'Till next time.' What did he mean? Manehatten was an enormous town. Suddenly she got a rush of energy, stood up and made for a chase.
With the harness put on the mailspony was already about to head onward when Celestia rushed out the door. Stopping as fast as she got up in the first place, she raised her voice: "What did you mean when you said "until next time.'? Well I mean sure we might meet each other again," Celestia gave a slight chuckle, "but I don't even know your name and the city is quite large. How are you so certain about meeting again?"
It was an odd question to ask, she knew that. But something itched her to ask it anyways. Be it plain curiosity, frustration with how fleeting the conversation was or perhaps even some insecurity due to never having owned a business before, Celestia knew it would have kept her thoughts occupied if she let this opportunity pass.
"It's Quick Send. We mailsponies have Manehatten figured down into tiny regions and everypony of us is responsible for just one of 'em. So as long as Ah deliver mail Ah'll sure be around here deliverin' your bags o' tea. But now Ah've really gotta go and deliver some more packets to other ponies in need. Cya around, Prin- Celestia." He waved her off as he took his leave into the crowded streets.
Celestia couldn't even thank Quick Send given how quickly he departed.
But soon enough while unwrapping and organising the shelves she found herself wondering. If there are subdivided districts within Manehatten dedicated to coordinate the mailsponies for such simple of a job like delivering a package to an adress, then there might really be something more to running her own store too.
Author's Note
I've been working on the idea of CelesTea for quite a while in my head now but never had the courage to write it down and post it. Here's the first chapter, I hope you like it!
Make sure to share your thoughts and leave a nice comment if you made it this far
BEEP . . . BEEP . . . BEEP . . . BEE--
click
"Ugh, is it already 1pm? 'Tis feels like I barely slept an hour." Her sisters voice pushed down from the matress above.
"Oh, good morning Luna! Don't worry, sister, it's only six thirty in the morning." Celestia explained. "Have you been up all night again?"
More annoyed by the mixture of cheer and worry in Celestia's voice than by her own interrupted sleep Luna let out a groan, turned over and tried to enter her sweet dreams again.
However, listening to her sister getting up and realising that soon she'd also be moving around the apartment quickly caused Luna to find her hopes would be to no avail.
"I had to conquer the Rift of Thimore before the event for the legendary Sword of Thousand Truths ended," though it's not like thou ever carest. Luna finished the thought in her mind. She sighed. "Why art thou up already? And why set the alarm-clock if thou anyway rises up before the sun herself does?" Luna didn't even try to hide her vexation.
"Well, my dear sister, ever since I do not have to raise the sun anymore I found myself waking up a little later every day. Just last saturday my nose was tickled awake by some warm rays of the sun." Celestia let out a light chuckle. "Is that not a funny change of roles after all those centuries?" She turned her face up towards the upper level of the loft bed.
Dry as the desert the voice from above answered "Indeed it is, sister."
Why can't she just for once speak like a normal pony would. This cheery attitude will drive me insane . At least the room was still dark and the window covered completely by the curtain. Still, sharing a loft bed with her sister was something Luna definitely would require time to get used to.
"Also I have got a store to run!" Celestias enthusiasm grew even larger.
After the delivery yesterday she spent the rest of the day organizing and re-organizing the shelves with the different kinds of teabags until she eventually settled for sorting by aroma. It would make it easier for ponies to find the flavor they're looking for.
Luna groaned once again. It hasn't been just a bad dream. Celestia actually spent most of their money on this teastore.
As Celestia stepped out the door she turned her head back to face her still sleepy sister: "Do you want to join me for breakfast? I think some lovely syrup pancakes would be just right to start this memorable day!"
Luna shuffled herself deeper below her blanket before again finding it would be to no avail. Leaving the warm cover of her bed for some pancakes is arguably a good decision but her growling stomache gave the winning argument. "I suppose some pancakes would indeed be quite lovely."
As her younger sister got out of bed Celestia made her way through the living room into the kitchen. With only four rooms in the apartment the remaining one was a small bathroom; although Luna had also managed to repurpose the former boxroom into her gaming chamber.
Albeit it being rather tiny the apartment was furnished quite cozily. Shy light of the morning sun shone through the windows and brightened the room into vivid colors. A new wooden table and its two seating pillows had their place in the front of the kitchen counter. Between the two a tall potflower found its place to grow.
Celestia stepped beyond the counter and started to prepare the meal.
Luna on the other hoof took her time getting ready. She intuitively went through her routine of checking in on social media every morning.
However the smell of fresh pancakes eventually got the better of her and pulled her out of the comfy bed. Guided by the aroma of sweet syrup and warm pancakes Luna took rest opposite of her sister in front of the window.
"Thank you for the breakfast, Tia." Luna lifted a pancake near her mouth, took a large bite and quickly gulped it down. "Those are delicious!" Even after the grumpy wake-up call she couldn't deny that there was a familiar and trusted flavor within them.
"You're welcome, dear sister." Celestia took a bite herself. "I got a hold of the syrup the chef back in Canterlot used. Even after leaving most of our lives behind the food is simply too good to not take along," she gave a warm smile, "don't you agree?"
Luna nodded while chewing on another bite. Upon swallowing she narrowed her eyes and asked: "How did you manage to do that? I was to believe the chef even created the syrup himself back then."
"Well, while commissioning the tea delivery for yesterday I wondered whether I could get a hold of where our former chef got my favourite tea flavors. So I sent him a letter and it turns out he started his own restaurant chain in Fillydelphia." Celestia took another bite before going on. "We talked a little about how he got started and eventually I asked him if he could give us one more bottle of his syrup."
Luna's face now also wore smile. But only a few seconds later the realisation overcame her: "Does this mean it's the last bottle we have now?" She waited for her sister to answer while looking onto her remaining two pancakes with her own shadow resting on top of it. A weak reflection glimmered from the texture of the syrup.
"Yes it is. So let us enjoy this meal to full extend." Celestia took her next bite and spent her time munching on it in order to savor the taste. Luna mirrored her sister. After all they might not experience such divine flavor that often as soon as the government fund runs out.
After finishing her plate Celestia looked up and outside the window behind Luna. The sun had risen up and the sky was bright and clear. The colors had grown even more alive throughout the meal and it seemed like this would become a wonderful day.
"To be honest, sister, I am quite nervous about today." Celestia's smile hid as her eyebrows furrowed. "It is the first day of me running the store and opening up for the public. I hope everything will be fine."
Luna - taken out of her dreamland and right back into the reality once again - still couldn't believe that Celestia spent most of their savings into opening her own tea store. At the same time Luna knew how important it was for this project to work out so that they both would at least have some sort of income. After swallowing her last bite Luna mustered up her at least partially honest positivity: "I'm sure you got this, sister. After all you do like your tea a lot, and so do many more ponies out there."
"Thank you, Luna." Celestia's face loosened up for a few silent seconds. Then it returned to a frown. "But what if the ponies here enjoy different tea than back in Canterlot? They also are usually rather busy around the streets so what if they don't like tea at all?" Her frown deepened into a mess of worry and fear.
Oh now she's really overreacting. Why am I even being this supportive. But well, don't wanna start a fight with her on her big day . With a slight tone of annoyance Luna let out another quick "it'll be fine, sister. Really," teleported her plate into the kitchen and made for her bed.
Unknowing of how to respond to whatever had happened within her sister Celestia took a leap of faith and hoped it would go as Luna predicted. After washing the dishes, showering and brushing her teeth she left the apartment and to Luna's pleasure finally let her sleep in peace.
Author's Note
Orignally wanted to fit the first day working at CelesTea into this chapter too but the morning conversation proved longer than expected. So I decided to split them into seperate chapters and provide an update ASAP. Thanks for reading on everyone!
The morning sun shone brightly from the horizon. It's warm sensation tickled across Celestia's snout as she left the building. Clear skies, fresh wind and the feeling of adventure guided her through the still mostly quiet streets of Manehatten to her Teastore - CelesTea.
Even though the streets were rather empty she still felt a little disappointed seeing that the storefront was left alone. Nopony waited excitedly on the streets for this promising new teastore to open up. Nopony was waiting to be surprised that Celestia herself would in fact be running her own business now. Nopony was out there.
But Luna Is right. That will change. By the end of the day everypony shall know this store!
With an unbreakable attitude and a newly found infinite amount of energy and enthusiasm Celestia unlocked the door and made a majestic entrance. Well - as majestic as an Alicorn Princess walking into her own walls could be. But that didn't matter to her; she knew that this day something big will start and all of Manehatten will know of it.
The store was as welcoming and harmonic as she left it the day before. From the celing warm light shone down and combined with the cozy dark wood built in the furniture and floor they evoked a quite relaxing atmosphere.
Breathing in Celestia smelt a familiar scent of chamomile and cinnamon which must have been emitted from the stored tea-bags and built up throughout the night. She walked across the room and turned on some quiet classical music. It was simply perfect.
Celestia took seat behind the counter - she settled down, unlocked the register and looked towards the door.
-
Nothing happened.
Nopony entered.
A few ponies passed the streets, many of them not even looking back at the store. Only now and then somepony spared a glance to the storefront before remembering the time and moving on. Nopony even looked through the windows - not to mention entered the store.
Celestia looked at the time: 8:21. Only twenty minutes passed since she arrived. Realising how slowly time passed when doing nothing but waiting a sudden change of mood hit her: this was going to be a long day.
Accepting that waiting and doing nothing was not going to help with her situation, Celestia decided to go through the inventory once again. She checked the shelves to see if they were all filled up, she looked through the organization and made sure that similar flavors were all put together and that different corners of the store would offer the many different and exquisite experiences that tea has to offer, in the end she even went through the register and counted every single bit to make sure she has enough change.
But it all wouldn't matter if nopony entered.
9:43 - Although only a little more than one and a half hours passed since she unlocked the door the streets were now flooded with ponies. Waves of ponies rushing through the streets and bouncing against other waves of ponies from different directions. They all passed with quick gait and determined direction; already having their goal in mind.
However the increase in bypassers achieved only the opposite of what Celestia hoped. Now nopony at all stopped for only a second to look around. Nontheless she couldn't blame them. Standing still within strong tides like this would probably prove really difficult even for the strongest of earth ponies.
But something had to be done. Celestia couldn't just let everypony pass by. She wanted to be seen and to be known throughout Manehatten by the end of the day so she had to get their attention.
Without thinking any further Celestia walked through the door, took a small step back surprised by the loud noises from the trotting and shouting of all the bypassers, regathered her thoghts and from the small podest of the entrance steps she shouted: "Dear citiziens of Manehatten!"
Shocked - as if struck by a lightning bolt - everypony froze. Celestia realised she used her Royal Voice. Oh! Wrong voice! she flushed for a second, then rebuilt her posture.
The whole crowd stood still, some bumped into each other and a few ponies fell to the street before hesitantly standing up again. Okay you're a princess you've done this before. First appeal to them and show empathy then ask them to calm down in life and take a look around. You got this Tia!
This time she did not shout but only raised her normal voice: "I hope you're having a great day with the lovely weather, clear skies and warm sun. I sure do," she gave a warm smile.
Some ponies already started to murmur and small chatter could be heard. Taking notice of the time a hooveful of ponies dressed in suits and ties departed and made way through the crowd, another few followed after. Nontheless most ponies kept their attention on Celestia and wondered what she was doing in Manehatten now. After all she was pretty famous and on top of that a rare sight to find when stumbling across the busy streets of Manehatten.
Celestia let her eyes wander around the buildings and through the streets. "I look around this city and I see the most interesting and different places looking from one building to another. Restaurants with food from far away places from even beyond this continent, boutiques with their very own clothes designing a revolutionary fashion sense throughout the city, a theater at this, a cinema at another corner, a street vendor selling icecream from behind his colorful cart," she let the unfinished enumeration fade leaving some time for everypony to look around for themselves.
Then her gaze becoming more direct when she spoke up again: "So I ask you all, why do you rush and hurry through the streets without time and break? Manehatten is so beautiful and bright. Please don't lose yourself in the hurry of time but also look around yourselves and look out for one another. Take your time to see the beauty for yourselves." Her mouth widened again and a smile even warmer and brighter than before shone from her lips.
Quiet chatter spread through the rows, movement followed and many ponies started breaking through the crowd to make up for lost time. Out of the chaos pony in a blue suit emerged and made her way towards the former princess. On her shoulder stuck an identification card displaying her name Silver Save and her duty as policemare.
She gave a slight bow before clearing her throat: "Ehm, there's no easy way to say this, Princess."
Celestia's gaze, for a second dazzled of what's to come interrupted the suitsponie's train of thought, so Celestia took word in an attempt to become more addressable.
"Please call me Celestia. What is it you want to tell me? There is no need to be afraid. I am just a pony like all of you."
"With all due respect, Princess," she reassured herself, "I wouldn't do a good job if I didn't ask you about your permit confirming the registration of your public speech on these busy streets. At least nopony informed me of this event so I hope you don't mind showing the permit to me before you continue."
"Oh," Celestia chuckled awkwardly, "I did not know I need a permit to talk here." She bowed her head apologetically.
Albeit the haste and stress found in most ponies of Manehatten, there are in fact quite some sights to enjoy. Be it the detail of the statue crowning on a water fountain, the unique taste of icecream from the kind vendor across the street or the gorgeous view across the river flowing through the older part of the city. But rarely one would see that, which police officer Justice laid his eyes on. This very morning. Sitting across his desk.
With her white coat, white wings, white horn and polychromatic mane, barely fitting on the wooden stool and looking down at him with an ironically serious face the former Ruler of Equestria waited for his word. Silver Save was hinted out with a confirming glance of the Chief.
He cleared his throat: "So, uhm, Princess," Justice's voice was rather rusty and deep, "is that true what Silver Save told me about today?"
It may have been for the multiple millenia she already experienced or perhaps for the fact that his attempt of hiding his confused tone as to this whole situation and how to handle it was not very good - either way Celestia decided to not make this any more awkward than it had to be.
"Well, yes. I did step outside and wanted to ask the ponies why they are so restless. But by no means did I plan to make a speech out of it. However I guess being who I am does pull quite a lot of attention." A sheepish chuckle escaped her lips.
"Mhm. I see what you mean." He looked up and straight into her eyes, "But, with all due respect, as you know the law is written with a purpose. Although most times ponies do not intend any harm or to rally others for harm, we do require everypony to register public events like these," Celestia nodded understandingly, "It does not exclude someone reasoned by their former - profession." He stumbled over the last part.
"However, provided that your intentions were lawful and you did not have any means to rally for violence or spread lies, I suppose I can let you off easy with a fine." The Chief put on an ever so slight smile.
Celestia exhaled the pent up tension. Completely understanding the conflict and situation she founds herself in she was glad the Chief was reasonable and fair. And most importantly Justice did not mean to give the newspapers some big headlines.
"We will send a notice explaining the process and naming the appropriate amount to your apartment within a day. However I must ask you something for the protocol: On your identification it says you live at the outer part of town. So what did you do in the building at 38th Autumn Leaf Street? I'm sure it's only some shopping or similar but it's for the files. You understand that, don't you?" Although his face was understanding, his tone was still accusatory. Not to blame the police officer - after all it was his job to interrogate and conduct proper files.
But Celestia had nothing to hide anyway, right ? I probably wouldn't miss two important things on the same day, She reassured herself before raising her excited voice:
Justice took some time to refocus his thoughts, internally pretending it would be another normal conversation with a fellow pony from Manehatten. Regaining his composure and readjusting his tie he continued: "That is indeed a quite nice motivation of you. I'm sure you also filled out all the papers at the town hall and registered it properly." Celestia decided to not answer this part and just smile for the second before Justice went on: "Personally I'm more of a coffee drinker but I would still like to see the place for myself when I find time. What did you name it?"
Still clunched together on the tiny stool and looking down from her high posture Celestia chuckled.
"Celes-Tea."
Author's Note
This one took me quite some time - as you might have notice
The streets had calmed down when Celestia was released from the police station. Although she lived in the capitol of Equestria itself inbefore, she was not used to such busy crowds and masses moving on and about.
However Manehatten was different. While it wasn’t as crowded as when she left her store, it still was rather difficult to navigate when bumping into other ponies all the time - and being so tall didn’t help it either.
But Celestia had a destination. One that had already crossed her mental deadline and that actually wasn’t too far away. Finding her way to the town hall and finally filing all the required papers to legally run her store.
Still it took quite some effort to stay in line with the other ponies. Of course Celestia could also spread her wings and soar above, but given that no other pegasus was flying around and given how strict the city proved to be earlier on, she did not want to risk ending up in the police station again. So she settled for fighting through the masses and coordinating across the crowds.
Seeing all the trouble already occuring from walking around for herself, Celestia began to realise how all the other ponies must have felt when passing CelesTea without sparing a glance. She made a mental note to later on work on a solution.
On the bright side there were icecream vendors in every other street. And statues and fountains decorated the marketplaces. Nontheless the whole atmosphere was oh so different to her home for thousand years.
Finally Celestia came to a hold. Before her wide stairs lead atop a platform providing basis for a large and old building. A blackboard in front showed the letters “Manehatten Town Hall” and contents of recent and upcoming events.
To the right of the entrance a pony shouted out the window of the newspaper-kiosk: “Princess Twilights plans for our foals' new education! Coffee & Co opens first store outside of Manehatten! Stock Values predicted to rise by at least 12%!” He emphasized every single word more than the last, advertising as if those news were the most important thing in the world.
To be fair Celestia already had a feeling Twilight would put a focus on making education in schools and universities more fun and efficient and she had no doubt her former pupil would make great work in doing so.
However seeing how quickly she figured things out and started taking initiative Celestia was positively surprised. On the other hoof given how organised her former student was and how quick of a grasp Twilight always has had for paperwork it would’ve been silly to have assumed anything else.
Still after defeating the masses and emerging from the chaos successfully Celestia did not feel like waiting in line to buy a paper. Instead she trotted through the open door of the building in front and thus finally finishing her road trip.
Inside the air was calm. Outside noise was muffled out and Celestia could find a moment to take a breath.
Large marble walls with big windows gave footing to the arched roof. A long desk stretched along the wall opposite to the entrance. Behind it a number of officials did their best to hear out all the concerns and wills of the ponies in front and assist them with their numerous requests.
This was going to take a while.
Celestia found she had no choice but to get in one of the lines and wait until it was her turn.
Slowly but surely they progressed and one by one the ponies left the building. It quickly became appearent to her that for every one pony leaving at least two new ponies found their way in. And the hall was only getting more crowded while she stood there and waited.
Eventually her sight cleared up after the last pony in front of her finally departed.
“Hello, welcome to the Town Hall of Manehatten. I'm Golden Feather, how can I h-help you?” machinelike this monotonous voice of a young stallion with a silver coat hidden beneath his suit and brown mane resting on top of it greeted Celestia. He stuttered towards the end, only then noticing who stood in front of him.
He bowed slightly, then continued: “It’s an honor to meet you, princess. But I must apologize for the long waiting time - we did not get word of you visiting us. The mayor is currently out of town for personal matters and it’s so stressful that neither me nor any of my colleagues noticed you waiting.” Golden Feather's tone had turned more professional and respectful after his unsuiting greeting.
For a second Celestia's cheeks turned red: “Oh! Don’t worry about anything like that.” She chuckled. “I retired a few weeks ago and Princess Twilight took my place, as you probably know. I am here because I want to register my own business and open up a tea store here in Manehatten. As a normal pony that is, no government, diplomatic image or publicity involved. And I heard this would be just the right place to begin.” Celestia's voice grew as excited as always when she discussed this topic.
Letting go of the breath he unknowingly had held Golden Feather was relieved. In his favor she wanted assistance in a field where he could help out. After all, in this busy city of suits and ties there were many ponies every week with a similar concern on their mind.
"I'm happy to hear that. Best of luck! I can assure you, after my work is done you will be ready to start without any legal problems." He mirrored her and smiled confidently. "The process is actually quite simple. You only need to know a few regulations regarding taxation and fill out a form to further define what variety goods you provide. Once that's finished I or one of my colleagues can come by to approve of the store." He broke eye contact and started shuffling through the files on the desk.
Celestia took this opportunity to respond: "Indeed, this sounds to be quite simple. Filling out the forms will not be a problem for me. When can I expect you to come by the store?" Her eyebrows narrowed in visible concern. "I mean, it's not like I would be anywhere else anyway," Celestia chuckled, "but how long does this process usually take?"
Golden Feather returned his attention to the mare in front of him and handed her a few sheets of paper. "Once you filled out these forms we usually go through them towards the end of the day when the doors are closed. And tomorrow either I or one of my colleagues could usually come by." He smiled again.
Then he lowered his head and dropped his ears. "But with the current situation things may be delayed by a few more days. Frankly I cannot promise you with good conscience, that we would have time before next week." Looking back up to the Alicorn he awaited a response.
Celestia frowned: "Oh. I understand. And this is all because the mayor is not around to organise the numerous requests from all the ponies coming in?"
"Yes, it's a little awkward to admit it but without him all this can quickly get out of hoof. If only anypony was around to substitute for his skills - then perhaps I would have already been able to approve of your store today. But I suppose nopony could keep up with his experience anyway. Unless..." He let his voice fade out.
Celestia easily took the hint and understood what he wanted. And although she wasn't sure how to feel about it, she knew she couldn't bear to wait for an entire week either. Thus she decided to not show her dismay and instead chuckled playfully: "You leave me no choice. I suppose a small step back to all this organising won't hurt."
Three Hours Later.
"Have a nice day and thank you for spreading awareness about all the stray animals without shelter." Golden Feather said goodbye to the last visitor.
Finally the Town Hall was empty and quiet. After a whole week of permanent stress and tension now he could let go of it, take time to breath and get ahead of schedule for once. Not only have they been able to deal with all the ponies at hoof, but also have they done so with two more hours left on the clock. More than enough time to wrap up the left-over paperwork and return home early.
Neglecting their exhaustion for one last time the whole staff of officials cheered and thanked Celestia for her tremendous help.
Celestia thanked everyone individually for their effort before raising her voice, adressing them all together: "Thank you all for your work and for being open to my suggestions. Without your execution this would not have been possible."
"You're too modest, princess. Without your leadership and structure we would have been stuck with this mess for at least another week. Thank you for your help." Golden Feather returned the gratefulness.
She couldn't hide her wide smile. "Thank you. I have to admit, helping out was quite some fun." She chuckled lightly, then turned to face Golden Feather specifically.
"So, now that all this has been dealt with, I hope you also hold up your part of the deal."
"Of course, Celestia. While you walked around thanking everypony I already approved of your papers. We can walk to your store right now if you want to." He signaled towards the exit.
Celestia brightened up and gladly trotted after him.
Author's Note
Hello and thank you everyone for reading on! you think will happen back at the store?
With the ringing of the bell Celestia opened up the door, ensuring to use her hindleg to keep it from falling against her company. And with Golden Feather entering and the door falling back into its angle the noises produced by dozens of hooves hitting the asphalt and those of their respective voices faded to silence.
They were greeted by a familiar scent of chamomile and the sound of soft classical music, to which both needed a moment to adjust and quiet down their voices. Upon taking a deep breath the stress gathered outside escaped their bodies along with the exhaled air. Celestia only now realised how nervous she was.
Surely she's been in situations way more nerve-wrecking before, many of which would impact the entirety of Equestria and all the ponies and creatures living within. However this time something was different. This was not about politics or caring about all the others that lived in Equestria. Celestia was nervous because this store was something of her own.
"Wow, this is nice." Golden Feather let his gaze wander through the room. "It feels like being in the center of a hurricane. Quiet and comfortable within the city of business and suits."
Celestia's face brightened: "Thank you! This means a lot to me," she guestured towards the seating pillows near one of the wooden tables and they settled down. "The warm and refreshing break a cup of tea can provide is precisely what I want to offer. All those ponies out there look like they could really use a thirty minute break every now and then. Ensuring you are rested is essentially part of the work as well, don't you agree?"
Golden Feather nodded. "Yes, I do. Especially without the mayor in town I know the feeling of a long, exhausting workday. Without the lunch break in the middle I would go insane," he chuckled and let his mind drift off.
"But in reality there are many ponies in Manehatten that struggle with this problem. They come here to chase their dream, follow through with who they want to become and take reins into their own hooves. Unfortunately most of them got stuck along the way and end up working all day," he lowered his eyes, "On top of it all it's rather common that within companies ponies are even driven to compete against their co-workers in order to get promotions and salary raises."
Golden Feather scratched his neck: "I'm sorry, Celestia. I did not mean to get philosophical."
"There is nothing to apologize for," Celestia smiled, "What you're telling may be a sad truth, yet quite interesting to me. From the political point of view all I have ever known about Manehatten were the high numbers of workplaces, density of population and which important companies have their residence here. However, learning about your standpoint makes me wonder how you found your place in all of this. Because you seem to me like somepony who is satisfied with the simple things in life."
Celestia got up and turned to the counter, "Talking about, may I offer you some tea? I would honestly enjoy listening to your stories about your life in Manehatten."
He nodded, "I would love to, thanks," before chuckling and adding ironically: "I suppose I have to test the quality of the product you're selling."
Yet nervous as she was Celestia wasn't sure how much of it was in fact meant ironically. Feeling pressured she chuckled. "Hehe. Uhm, what sort of tea would you prefer then? Classical chamomile? Or white, green or black tea? Perhaps herbal tea? I've got it all here."
"Green tea, please."
"That makes two then."
She levitated two teabags from the shelves, filled two porcelain cups with water and used her magic to instantaneously heat it up.
Afterwards Celestia returned to the table, both cups flying in front of her, and put them down.
"There we go," she smiled, "I suppose we can keep talking while we wait for the tea to steep."
However halfway between standing and sitting she hesitated and realised her own words.
What am I saying? Of course we can keep talking. Why am I even so nervous about all this? This is nothing more than a normal conversation. It may be about business but I've had far more important matters to deal with. So why can I not keep my calm attitude and find proper phrasings?
Nontheless Golden either did not notice anything or did a good job hiding so. "Thank you. Yes of course, what do you want me to tell you about?"
"Well, how did you decide to come here and work for the Mayor? Were you also chasing a dream like the broad majority you've told me about?"
"Oh, not at all," he chuckled, "In fact I was born in Manehatten and grew up here. My father always was a good friend of the mayor so after I graduated and as I was looking for a job he offered an internship to me," he stared off through the glass wall for a second, "To be frank, I never really felt the need to do something else. At the end of each day I know that I helped out a lot of ponies with their goals and dreams. And to me doing just that feels great."
"But what about your own dreams? Do you not sometimes think about leaving Manehatten to get to know more about Equestria or to make friends in other cities? Maybe study at a university in Canterlot or Trottingham?" Celestia took a breath, "What I am attempting to say is, you are still young and have your whole life ahead of you. Why do you already settle for a steady occupation?
"You are right, Celestia," he replied, "sometimes I do catch myself thinking about these things. Yet as I do so I always come to realise that I don't need to go searching the world when my destination is right in front of me. Spending every day at the town hall with the same ponies around me, walking through these familiar streets and eating at restaurants where I've grown to know their entire menu," Golden looked for the right words, "Well, my heart just tells me it's all I want."
Celestia took a sip from her cup before answering: "That is lovely to hear. To follow our hearts is what guides us to our place in life. Manehatten is indeed quite beautiful, if only all the other ponies would take their time to appreciate where they live as much as we do," she let the sentence fade. "I would be happy to provide this 'center of a hurricane' - as you put it so nicely."
Golden Feather finished a sip, then put his cup down and made eyecontact: "Thank you for the kind words. Nontheless I frankly do not think the pace of the streets would ever change. At least not within a couple of months or years," he guestured with his hoof, "It may be harsh but they have to work so much to keep up with their co-workers. Luckily as an official I don't need to endure such stress - thanks to your law ensuring an officials permanent employment that is."
"Yes, I did want to offer an equal amount of stabililty for ponies like you as officials provide for the government. But that is nothing but boring politics," she chuckled, "I've already served my thousand years. Now," she guestured, looking around the room, "Well, now I only have this tea store to worry about. What do you think of it?"
He let out a breath of relaxation and scanned the room, for the first time properly looking at the details. All the different aspects of the interior - the wooden vintage style of the furniture, the shelves displaying varying flavors of teabags, the simple yet quite welcoming counter with its register sitting on top, and the cherry on top of the cake: the classical music playing in the background and embracing how quiet and recreative this room could be.
Meanwhile Celestia found herself becoming more nervous with every silent second passing by. What does he think about it? Did I sort the flavors good enough? Maybe the door-lock is not save enough - I totally forgot about that!
But to the outside she managed to mask it entirely with her well-learned formal smile.
"I think you did a great job," Golden Feather finally announced. "Of course I have to also confirm the inventory and check off all those formalities later on, but I'm honest when I say yours must be one of the prettiest stores I've ever seen when doing this routine.
Upon being hit by a wave of relief Celestia's smile turned entirely honest.
Continuing with the declared follow-up checks and formalities and Golden Feather confirming Celestia's knowledge about taxation and maintaining a business properly on the papers, they both went on for the last few hours of the day.
"Alright I suppose that's it for today. If everything works out back at the Town Hall as planned then I can bring your permit over already by tomorrow afternoon." Golden turned toward the exit.
Albeit it being summer the sky was rather dark already. Many lanterns lit the streets that only few ponies were left wandering in. Now only a calm nightwind hushed along the walls of Manehatten.
"Thank you, I truly appreciate your efforts." Celestia replied.
"...Oh, also make sure to install a more secure lock for this place," he added after opening the door. "Although the streets of Manehatten are pretty save it would be a waste to risk your store's future for such a small thing."
"Yes, of course," Celestia replied hastily. "Thank you once again for all you have done."
"You're welcome. See you tomorrow," he waved her off.
"You too, Golden Feather."
Author's Note
Hiya
I gathered a lot of experience in writing extended conversations during this chapter; so I hope you enjoyed it.
As always make sure to leave a nice comment and share your thoughts and feedback while doing so
"I'm back!" Celestia cheered upon opening the door to their apartment.
There was no response. At least none which could be said in words. Instead the only sounds answering Celestia's greeting were faint electronic music followed by a foreign female voice shouting: "Snooow-NADO!"
And a short break filled with special effects later the same voice continued, "Don't be ashamed, you ver beaten by zhe best!"
For some ponies arriving at home and joining their sister would provide great joy and excitement. To play videogames together and share some snacks and softdrinks would be just the energy they need to end a long day of work. You would laugh about spontaneous jokes regarding the games, compete with one another, sometimes also take the competition too far and end up arguing. But in general you would make quality memories to remember.
But as for Celestia and Luna this was not the case. Feeling exhausted and drained from the crowded streets and busy town hall as also from working through the paperwork with Golden Feather, Celestia decided it would be of more use to spend her remaining energy on making dinner.
However while she was pondering between ordering fastfood or finishing the leftover apple cake a door slammed open across the room, some profane language was spoken and accompanying it the volume of the electronic music grew louder.
Celestia instinctively winced upon this sensory overload.
From the other perspective Luna found herself halfway through the living room before even noticing her sister.
"Oh, hi Tia. Good evening," she moved on in steps as tensed as the frown on her face.
Making an effort to maintain a smile Celestia replied: "Good evening to you too, sister. Is everything alright?"
Stopping mid-gait Luna exhaled and let her head hang down: "It's just an opponent in a fighting game. She's so annoying," she groaned, shook her head, regained her composture and faced Celestia - a small spark of determination within her eyes: "Anyhoof, I'll beat her next time!"
Celestia on the other hoof sighed in relief and smiled: "I'm glad to hear it's only something in a videogame," she chuckled, "and here I thought a serious matter had occured. On a more important note though, could you please use a soundbarrier? The moon has long risen and our neighbours likely want some rest as well."
Luna was too frustrated from gaming to start an argument about the relevance of videogames with her sister at this hour. Also after Celestia had left the apartment she laid eyes open in her bed for a solid hour before she understood that sleep appearently had not been an option anymore.
Hence being exhausted from sleep depravation, a long day of gaming and from occasionally cursing at the console Luna decided going along would be the easiest. She lit her horn and a moment later a translucent blue wall appeared around the entrance to her room. With it the sound was muffled out entirely.
Noticing how her older sister turned her attention back towards the fridge for a second Luna took the opportunity to escape towards the restroom. On her way she let out a quick "have a nice evening" , partially meaning it but mostly in an effort to keep Celestia from raising her voice again.
Once again suddenly left alone Celestia took a moment to gather her thoughts. Luna had already begun avoiding her because she still has not apologized properly for rushing the entire tea-store business. In hindsight it was indeed inconsiderate to propose such an idea while the other pony had been distracted.
She worried. The last thing Celestia would ever want was a misunderstanding to escalate into communication problems and avoidance, just as it had happened this long time ago.
Thus Celestia grabbed a sandwich from the fridge and sat down. All the while ensuring to keep watch over the room and to not let Luna slip past her unnoticed.
However when Luna returned she groaned.
Resting her head where a few minutes ago her sandwich had laid Celestia let out slight snores. And although one eyelid was still partially raised Luna had no doubt her sister wouldn't wake up any time soon - even if she would lift the soundbarrier again.
"So tomorrow she will be cheery and snarky?" Luna thought.
She stared blankly at Celestia in an attempt to evaluate whether teleporting her to bed would be worth the effort. But figuring that a good night's rest is indeed quite important to anypony she lit her horn once again and in a purple flash Celestia disappeared into the bedroom.
Facing back towards her gaming chamber Luna's eyes turned serious: "Now, you've survived me long enough. Time for your face to be kicked, Velvet!"
A few sunrays tickled her muzzle before Celestia reluctantly opened her eyes. She did not feel like getting up, the warm blanket and cozy pillow made it even more difficult.
However something in her mind kept nagging her as if she forgot something. It told her to start thinking and get moving, but Celestia conflicted internally and argued for a compromise of maybe just a few more minutes .
But it only took her bare seconds till suddenly her entire body tensed and her eyes flashed open. She saw the sun already. She overslept.
In an instant the bed was left empty and Celestia rushed to the kitchen for a rapid breakfast. She snatched an apple from a bowl on the counter and galloped outside, neglecting to brush her teeth.
By now she had completely forgotten about last night's events and wouldn't question how she got to her bed until she was already halfway to her store.
Meanwhile Luna rested sound asleep on her cushioned seat in front of the console. On the floor by her side laid two empty pizza cartons and half a dozen similarly empty bottles of cola.
The room was lit only by some stray sunrays bypassing the curtains and the light from the television screen. It displayed a cattlekind on it's hindlegs holding a lasso thrown around a trophy.
Big orange letters spelled out "VICTORY".
Author's Note
Celestia sure has a lot going on all of a sudden; she was already getting used to feeling like she'd be on vacation before opening the store.
Thank you for reading on! It truly means a lot to me
And as always, please make sure to leave a nice comment with your thoughts, ideas and feedback below!