@SquiggyBomb  
No, a strong ruler would make it understood that they’re a better manipulator than all the bit players, and are perfectly capable of adjusting the system any time they so choose, so don’t test them, because they’re perfectly content to replace you if you’re doing more harm than good.
 
…Or is that just left over in my head from my summer of reading too much Discworld a few years back?

@bustoblaster
 
It’d be an awesome tale of political intrigue spelling over the course of 7-12 years with Spike growing from newbie to veteran and seizing the throne Dark Souls style.
 
“What lies ahead, only you know.”

@SquiggyBomb  
The risk is putting the subjects safety at stake only because she’s “tired”: not really a good choice.

But does she have a royal scepter?

Wonderful.

@SquiggyBomb  
The problem is that, apparently (in this fanon) the entire principality is about as solid as two bricks held together with silly putty- without the princess constantly making sure of its integrity, it’ll just fly apart at the slightest provocation.

@SquiggyBomb  
It’s not just her standing, it’s the whole Empire at stake.

@PonyPon  
If that’s the only option, then take it. Tear it all down. When you are in a position to change things for the better and don’t for fear of maintaining your own standing, you’re not only a coward, you’re selfish.

@SquiggyBomb  
She can’t do anything.
 
It’s a house of glass that will take them all out if she tried to get rid of it.

If she’s so sick of it all them scheming and backstabbing, then why doesn’t she do something about it? Hiding yourself and pretending it doesn’t exist isn’t the mark of a strong ruler. It’s the mark of a coward.

Thought this was Fluttershy at first. Dang.

Poor empress Celestia…

“The Diplomat-verse’s Princess Celestia. Empress. Absolute ruler. Practically revered as a goddess.  
But the truth is, Celestia is tired. Tired of the games and schemes, tired of all the big and small cruelties her subjects inflict on each other. She knows most of what’s going on, but her hands are tied. There are too many parties involved. Remove one and it would all break down, devolve into chaos. And so she recedes more and more from her duties, only gets involved when absolutely necessary. Already she feels she is doing nothing more but represent, maintain her image, smile and wave. It is too much. With heavy heart, she locks herself away whenever possible, ignores the terrible realities around her. The sun is hidden behind clouds.  
—————  
And that concludes our major players for this alternate universe. Not sure what I’m gonna do with them yet, but if I can think of something, I’ll throw in an illustration or two. Short scenarios are always welcome, and of course you’re free to draw or write them yourself too. Hope you enjoy!”