Cosmos and Galaxia: The Birth of a Kingdom (MLP AU)

Chapter 77: Celestia's Burden

                      Celestia paced back and forth in her chambers, the golden light of the setting sun casting long shadows across the walls. The grand, ornate room that once felt like a sanctuary now felt suffocating. For weeks, she had faced relentless pressure in Parliament. Every time she presented a proposal or suggestion, it seemed to be met with skepticism, her ideas scrutinized more than she ever anticipated. Her approval rate had stagnated, and there were whispers in the court—not loud, but enough to reach her ears.

She slumped into her chair, feeling the weight of the crown she wasn't even wearing. "What am I doing wrong?" she whispered to herself, her voice barely audible.

Her thoughts drifted to Luna. Her sister, so free, so beloved by the people. Luna had taken on her role effortlessly, mingling with the citizens, helping them with their day-to-day struggles. Ever since the forest fire, when Luna had rushed to save the citizens of Canterlot, her popularity had soared. Luna was adored for her kindness, bravery, and relatability. The people saw her as a symbol of hope and strength, while Celestia... Celestia felt like an outsider in her own kingdom.

She couldn't help but feel a pang of jealousy, though she knew it wasn't right. Luna was her sister, her other half, and yet the distance between them seemed to grow wider by the day. It wasn't Luna's fault. Celestia's struggle with her role in Parliament was her own battle.

A knock on the door broke her thoughts. "Come in," she said, her voice quieter than usual.

The door creaked open, revealing Cosmos. The towering stallion, with his deep, royal blue coat and shimmering mane that mirrored the cosmos, stepped into the room, his eyes full of concern. "Celestia," he said softly, closing the door behind him.

"Father," Celestia greeted, straightening herself but unable to hide the exhaustion in her voice.

Cosmos approached, his presence both calming and commanding. He stood beside her and placed a hoof on her shoulder. "I've been watching you, my daughter. You've been struggling."

Celestia looked away, ashamed. "I don't know what I'm doing wrong. No matter how hard I try, Parliament rejects my ideas. The citizens don't connect with me the way they do with Luna. I feel... inadequate."

Cosmos sighed, his gaze gentle but firm. "You are not inadequate, Celestia. You are a leader. But leading is not the same as being loved. Your role in Parliament is to guide, to govern. And governance is not always easy. There will be resistance. There will be criticism. But that does not mean you are failing."

Celestia let his words sink in, though the doubt still lingered. "But Luna... the people adore her."

"And they adore you too," Cosmos replied, "though perhaps not in the same way. Luna connects with the citizens in ways that are unique to her. But you, Celestia, are meant for a different path. You are the beacon that will guide Canterlot through times of peace and challenge. You cannot compare yourself to your sister, for you both have different roles to play."

Tears welled up in Celestia's eyes. "I just want to do right by our kingdom."

Cosmos leaned in, his voice gentle. "And you are. Trust yourself, Celestia. And don't be afraid to lean on your family when you need support."

At that, Celestia felt a weight lift from her chest, though it did not fully disappear. She nodded, taking in a deep breath. "Thank you, Father."

Later that evening, Celestia walked through the vast halls of the palace, her mind still heavy with thoughts of Parliament. The corridors, usually bustling with activity, felt eerily quiet at this hour. The only sound was the soft click of her hooves against the polished marble floor.

As she approached the balcony, she noticed the flicker of candlelight coming from one of the smaller council rooms. Curiosity piqued, she gently pushed the door open and found Galaxia seated at a long table, her horn aglow as she reviewed various scrolls.

"Mother?" Celestia asked, surprised to see her there so late.

Galaxia looked up and smiled warmly. "Celestia, my dear. Come in. I didn't expect you to be awake."

Celestia entered the room and sat beside her mother. "I couldn't sleep. Too many things on my mind."

Galaxia's expression softened, and she placed a comforting hoof on her daughter's. "The weight of leadership is heavy, isn't it?"

Celestia nodded. "It is. I thought I was prepared for it, but Parliament is so... different from what I imagined. It feels like everything I suggest is met with resistance, and I don't know how to change their minds."

Galaxia listened quietly before responding. "Being a ruler means more than just making decisions, Celestia. It's about understanding the people you govern and finding a balance between their needs and the future you envision for them. The truth is, no matter how much wisdom you possess, there will always be those who challenge your ideas. But that's not a reflection of your capabilities—it's simply part of the process."

Celestia sighed, leaning into her mother's comforting presence. "I just want to be as loved as Luna. She makes it all look so easy."

Galaxia chuckled softly. "Luna's role is different from yours, my dear. She thrives among the people, but that doesn't diminish your importance. You are the sun that guides them, even when they can't see you directly."

For a moment, Celestia felt the burden on her shoulders lighten. She rested her head on Galaxia's shoulder, savoring the rare moment of peace.

The next morning, Celestia found herself standing before Parliament again, a renewed determination in her heart. Luna had offered her a strategy the night before, one that could potentially sway the most critical members of the assembly. Celestia was hesitant but trusted her sister's judgment.

As she began her speech, she could feel the tension in the room. Eyes narrowed, some delegates whispered among themselves. But Celestia remained calm. She presented her plan, weaving in elements of Luna's advice, and when she finished, she held her breath.

A moment of silence followed before the murmurs began to shift. Some of the skeptical faces softened. One by one, the key members of Parliament started to nod in agreement.

Celestia felt a surge of relief. It wasn't a complete victory, but it was a step forward.

As she exited the chamber, Luna was waiting for her outside, a grin on her face. "See? I told you it would work."

Celestia smiled, her heart lighter than it had been in days. "Thank you, Luna. I couldn't have done it without you."

Luna nudged her playfully. "That's what sisters are for."

And for the first time in a long while, Celestia felt like everything might just fall into place.