Loving And Fighting. Accusing, Denying.

Today had just been awful.

Queen Chrysalis had nearly ruined her best friends life.

She nearly destroyed Canterlot.

She nearly turned her Auntie into a changeling herself.

But worst of all she almost destroyed Twilight.

Twilight............

Cadence Sighed.

Cadence thought she had pushed those thoughts out of her mind, but here she was reopening old wounds. Of all the ponies that could have found her, of all the ponies that could have saved her, it had to be Twilight. Cadence was walking down the castle halls feeling defeated. She remembered the day she met Twilight.

.......................................................................................................................................

Cadence was sat outside in the royal gardens, Admiring the lush flowers that had just emerged due to the effects of spring. Cadence loved spring. The flowers, the longer nights that started to emerge, it was indeed the perfect season for love. It was early in the morning so not many ponies would be awake at this time. That was what Cadence enjoyed most. The quiet, the calm. She closed her eyes and took a deep breath. In through the nose, out through the mouth.

“Hello There?” Came a deep yet playful voice.

Cadence jumped at the sudden start and turned around to see who had been watching her and for how long. She met a pair of Aqua blue eyes, even his Sclera was tinted a light blue, along with a goofy smile that seemed almost natural.

“Hi?” Cadence said with an almost annoyed voice, the last thing she liked was being surprised.

“It's beautiful isn't it?” He said

“What is?”

“The flowers when they're in bloom” He was wearing that grin so wide it almost ached to look at.

“Yes they are... but who are you” Cadence wanted this intruder to leave as her morning relaxation in the gardens was about the only thing that got her through her daily duties.

“Oh sorry how rude of me my names Shinning. Shinning Armour and yours miss?” Shinning said with that still goofy smile plastered on his face.

“Cadenza. Princess Mi Amore Cadenza” Cadence said flatly it's not that she didn't like the stallion it's just in the morning she prefers to be alone.

“What a beautiful name” The stallion cocked an eyebrow before continuing “Well your highness it shall be a pleasure serving you next year” He began to bow and if possible his grin grew even wider.

“What do you mean?” Cadence seemed startled now.

“I've just been drafted into training to become a royal guard and hopefully by next year I shall be one” Damn that stupid grim Cadence thought.

“Well that's very nice to hear, and it shall be a pleasure to speak to you in a years time, but I like to be alone in the morning if you don't mind” Cadence said with a half apologetic smile.

“A beautiful mare like yourself shouldn't be walking around without an escort should she?” The grin still not leaving his face.

“Well as I have done it for the past 134 years. I think it's safe to say I'll be alright, but thank you for your concern now it you don't mind.” Cadence turned to walk away. Shinning was just about to say something before a loud booming noise shocked them both. Both Cadence and Shinning looked up to the sky to see a large wave of colours pass them.

“What in the name of Celestia” Cadence said while shinning just stood there dumbstruck.

But before either of them could think on the situation a cracking noise broke they're train of thought.

Cadence and Shinning turned to see a large dragons head protruding from one of the castles pillars

“Where in Equestria did that come from?!” Shinning yelled in a full panic.

“I think it's coming from the examination hall” Cadence turned to see Shinning no longer had a smile on his face but instead a face full of fear.

“Are you okay?” Cadence asked in fear for the colt was remaining silent.

“Twily!” Shinning began running through the gardens at full speed. Heading for the examination hall.

“Twily?” Cadence thought before rushing after him in a panic.

Shinning began charging through the gardens at a break neck pace. Nearly knocking over ponies in the process Cadence had a hard time keeping up with him. It wasn't until Shinning smashed his way through a group of guard's that Cadence thought 'this colt's insane'

Shinning quickly ducked round several corners in a quick speed never slowing down but rather showing impeccable skill by not skidding into several walls. Eventually Shinning skidded to a halt just outside the examination hall where the dragon had seemed to magically disappear. Shinning ran into the hall. Cadence just behind him. He ran around frantically in the empty hall hoping to find a glimpse or hear whimper of his little sister somewhere, anywhere.

As he looked around all he noticed was the large hole in the roof presumably, created by that large dragon. A cart with some hay and a broken shell on it.

'A Shell?' Shinning thought

“Wait!” He yelled “Did that dragon come from that egg!”

“It could have done, this is an examination hall and this is a test that the examiners give out. Although hatching a dragon egg is very hard to do, and they don't give it out too often.” Cadence said wondering why this stallion was acting so strange.

“Well, what make them give out a test like this if it's so rare?!” Shinning breathing was erratic.

“Well it depends on the written exam.” Cadence started to worry the nice, smiling stallion she met was now acting like some pony had just died.

“What do you mean it depends on the written exam!” Shinning screamed.

“Well, the whole point of this examination room is to test a unicorns ability. The ages of the unicorns are very varied because there is no age restriction for the school you can take this exam when you can pass the written exam. But the written exam is incredibly hard to pass it took me 4 tries and very long nights of studying just to get into the school. I was 9 when I got in. I think the oldest one was 'Technote' he got in after 12 failed tries he was 16 I think when he finally got in. He only stayed for 1 year because he only wanted to learn colour magic. Which is necessary for artists you see. He completed the training in 1 year because to be honest there's not much to learn about colour magic. Yet he still tried so hard to get in and didn't give up. Guess he just thought it would help him if he told pony's he went to the School For Gifted Unicorns. So the harder the course, the more difficult the magic, and the strength of the unicorn, depends on the amount of time you stay” Cadence took a breath before being interrupted.

“What in Tatarus does that have to do with the dragon!” Shinning was getting angry.

“I was getting to that” Cadence glared at him.

“Well 'Technote' wasn't that smartest unicorn which is why he failed the written exam 12 times but colour magic still takes skill to learn, the average time it takes to complete it is 3 years yet he did it in 1.”

Shinning raised an eyebrow.

“A lot of unicorns pass the test easily but don't have a lot of magic, so it takes them a little longer to complete the course. While some fail the test a few times, but when they get in. They get the training done quicker because they have a lot energy. That's why the the ages, time, and effort needed are not restricted. Different unicorns posses different ability's. The reason the written exam is so hard is because you must know a little about all forms of magic, even if you wish to just peruse one form.

“Okay but I still don't see what that-” Shinning began before being interupped.

“The youngest unicorn to ever hatch a dragon egg was Sculptors Muse he was 7. He was 4 marks off perfect in the written exam. This test is only given to those who nearly ace the exam. Yet even if they ace the exam there's no guarantee that they can hatch the egg. The written exam tests your knowledge while this exam tests your power.”

“And?” Shinning asked.

“Well about 16 ponies have nearly aced the written exam and have been given this one but all failed to hatch the egg so they were given weaker exams, and they keep getting weaker until they can pass, which is how the examiners test a unicorns power level. The smarter they are the more they know, the more they know the more they understand. If they understand magic better than every other pony they might be better at magic which is why the highest graded unicorns get given the hardest tests. Then the test gets weaker if they can't pass and when they pass that's when they go to the school, you see you get many tries in here it's only the written exam that's a problem this place just checks how strong you are. So that it can tell the school how long they think it might take based on the unicorns knowledge and power to complete a course.” Cadence breathed very deeply

“So what your saying is?” Shinning seemed completely lost.

“Well if a unicorn managed to get here then they must be very very smart and if they managed to not only hatch the egg, but increase the size of the dragon by 100-fold. Then they must be very powerful. So therefore there in a unicorn running around here with power that almost matches Celestia's herself.”

“Oh horse apples!” Shinning yelled running around the room again looking under anything that wasn't bolted down.

“What are you looking for?” Cadence started laughing when Shinning got his head stuck in-between 2 of the chairs.

“Urg- My little sister Twily!” Shinning stated while prying himself free from the chairs.

“Twily? Wait your sister was taking an exam here?” Cadence gasped.

“Yeah I came with Twily and our parents to see her but we got here like an hour early so I decided to take a walk and got lost. Which is when I ran into you” He said still searching.

“Oh well what does she look like we could ask the guards whether they've seen her. While I could go ask Auntie. If a young unicorn is running around with a giant dragon.” Cadence laughed.

Shinning shot her a glare.

“What just trying to lighten the mood. This is the most fun I've had in over 100 years.” Cadence giggled.

Shinning still glaring.

“This isn't a game” He spoke coldly

“Why no longer smiling? She couldn't have gotten far” Cadence's smile began to slip.

“Really what if she was crushed by that dragon? What if she was eaten by it? What if she created it and got scared and ran away? What if the guards think she was planning an attack on Canterlot and are chasing her down as we speak?” A tear fell from his eye which Cadence noticed.

“She's my little sister she's the only one I've got. I've been protecting her since she was just a little filly. She spent so long studying for this exam, so much that's she sacrificed making friends over it. I'm the only friend she has. She's my LSBFF” Shinning sighed.

“Your what?” Cadence seemed confused.

“Little Sister Best Friend Forever” Shinning admitted “I thought she was really smart but if that test you said was so hard then she must be a genius” Shinning exhaled.

“What do you mean?” Cadence felt the love coming off shinning for his little sister it felt like the power of a star.

“The year before she took the exam she came crying to me. Saying how she couldn't figure out how to get her cutie mark and she really wanted one. I told her that she has to figure out who she is and what she wants to do her whole life. What her passion is. She said 'Magic'” Shinning smiled

“Magic?” Cadence smiled

“Yeah she wanted to learn magic. I asked what kind of magic. She asked 'how many kinds are there?' I said 145. Then she said 'No there's 147 Star magic had just been developed and transformation magic has two separated forms of Light and Dark transformation'. She was always so smart, so I asked her if you know them all them, then which was do you want to learn. She said ' all of them' I said well that's a lot if you want to learn, then you better study hard then you can go to the School for Gifted Unicorns and learn all the types of magic and get your cutie mark. Then she ran away smiling and began studying.” Shinning paused for a minute.

“She got a perfect score on the written exam” Shinning admitted

“Perfect! But that's impossible” Cadence screamed

“Well if she just turned a egg into a giant dragon then I'm sure she's capable of getting a perfect score.” Shinning laughed “ Although I need to find her I won't leave her alone to deal with this, she needs me”

Cadence could see just how much Shinning cared for his little sister. She knew he cared a lot for her and knew he wanted her safe more than any other sibling would, she knew she had to help.

“Well I still think we should have a look around I'll go ask Celestia, You go ask any of the guards if they're seen her” Cadence smiled.

“Thanks” Shinning wiped at his eyes before he could cry.

“Thanks?” Cadence was puzzled

“For not laughing, most ponies do when they hear how close we are, please find her. She's 4, Purple coat, Dark blue mane, she has a purple and a pink streak in her mane and violet eyes.” Shinning said with a worried tone

“Okay you go check outside and I'll go find Celestia and ask her” Cadence Smiled.

I Can't Imagine A World With You Gone.

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Cadence and Shinning Armour went their separate ways in search for Twily.

Cadence wandered down the castle hallways in search for anypony that would have the slightest idea where this unicorn was. She asked the guards, several maids and the odd one or two subjects that were there on royal business. She was about to give up until she realized that she had forgot to ask Celestia.

She asked one of the maids if she knew where the Princess was, which lead Cadence in the direction of Celestia's royal chambers.

Cadence skipped 'more than' trotted down the castle halls finding it enthralling to be on the hunt for a unicorn so powerful, yet she reminded herself that this was somepony's lost little sister and that Shinning was worried and wanted her found.

Cadence eventually came to Celestia's chambers and knocked twice.

“Who is it?” Cadence heard from the other side.

“Auntie it's me Cadenza”

“Oh Cadence just in time” Celestia said while the doors began to magically open. “I'm sure your here to ask about the dragon incident a few moments ago am I correct?” Celestia said while Cadence began to step into the room.

“Sort of......” Cadence replied looking at Celestia who was busy gathering scroll's off one of her shelves.

“Sort of.... by whatever do you mean Cadence?” Celestia put down the scrolls she was carrying and stared at her niece while raising an eyebrow.

“Well I was sitting in the garden like I usually do early in the morning, when I was interrupted by a stallion I had never seen before, we talked for a few minutes before we heard this loud cracking noise and turned around to see a large dragon protruding from one of the pillars, well me and this stallion ran there to find the dragon gone... Long story short the dragon came from the examination hall where this stallions sister was supposedly taking an exam, so we believe she was the one that caused the dragon, and I promised him I would help him find her, he's worried sick ”
Cadence took a breath.

“I think any sibling would be worried if the one they share a tight bond with was missing” Celestia smiled. “What was the name of this stallion?”

“I Believe it was, Shinning Armour”

“Big Brother!” A small voice echoed through the room

Cadence turned to see a pair of beautiful violet eyes watered over starring up at her, the filly began to scrawl out from under the table she was hiding under. She could tell that the filly had been crying the poor little thing did it's best to try and run up to Cadence tripping over herself along the way. She skidded to halt just in front of Cadence but tripped and fell on her muzzle in the process. Cadence thought that it was incredibly cute and used some magic to help the filly back onto her hooves.

“You saw Shinning?!” The little filly squeaked

“Uhhh... yes I did he's out there looking for you right now” Cadence smiled while the filly's face fell, and she began crying.

“Is he... (Sniff) is he mad at me?” Cadence felt her heart break.

“Of course not he just wants to know that your alright” Cadence put a hoof on the filly's shoulder.

The filly lifted her head and smiled.

“So are you the one who made the dragon?” Cadence asked with baited breath, wondering how such a young filly could hold so much power.

“Indeed she did Cadence” Cadence turned to Celestia.

“It was quite a sight to behold, I was just taking a walk through the gardens when I witnessed a Sonic Rainboom, my I hadn't seen one of those in years.” Celestia laughed as she walked towards the other end of the room taking a seat just, left of her royal bed. “Then but a few seconds later, I heard the sound of a building shatter and turned to see a giant dragon sticking it's head out of the examination hall” Cadence turned to see the little filly shrink down and hide her face in her hooves, mumbling something that sounded like 'I'm sorry'.

“Anyway... I went over to the examination hall to see what the cause was. When I saw this little filly floating in a aura of purple energy, with her eyes glowing a neon white and all of the examiners where floating in the air, her parents had been turned into plants, while the dragon had crushed half of the surrounding building” Celestia laughed. While Cadence turned to see the little filly had began crying again. Cadence decided speak up.

“Well I think it's amazing” Cadence said while stealing a glance at the filly who, was now looking up at her with tears in her eyes.

“You do?” The little filly spoke up.

Cadence smiled and walked up to the filly. “Yes I do, apart from Princess Celestia and myself, I would say your one of the strongest unicorns I've ever met. You've done things that most ponies could only dream of doing.” Cadence said while placing a hoof under the filly's chin and tilting it slightly upwards, so that she could look into those beautiful violet eyes. “What you did is nothing to be upset about, it's something you should be proud of and never let anypony tell you any different” Cadence smiled while the filly's eyes filled with tears once more, only this time they weren't tears of sorrow. They were tears of joy. She jumped up and hugged as much of Cadence fore-hoof as she could her tears matting against Cadence's fur.

“Thank you Princess... I'll try to make everypony proud” The filly cried

In that moment, that tiny moment. Cadence felt something amazing. Something you don't feel everyday. Something as rare as an eclipse or... a dragon egg being hatched. Cadence felt pure... harmony. She felt all of the feelings that the filly was radiating. A filly that only wanted to help ponies, make ponies happy, make ponies proud. For the first time in her entire existence. Cadence met a pony who's soul was pure. Just as she felt her heart swell with the immense power, the filly pulled away in a panic.

“Oh I'm so sorry Princess!” The filly stumbled backwards and fell on her haunches. “Ow...”

Cadence's thought's were interrupted though as Celestia spoke up.

“I agree with you Cadence, Twilight's power is something that could help a lot of ponies so that's why I've made her my personal prodigy.” Celestia beamed with pride.

“Really!?” Cadence screamed.

“Yes I believe she will be a great pony one that will do great good for the whole of Equestria.” Celestia walked up to Twilight and knelt down before her.

“So my faithful student are you ready to start your studying to become a mare of magic” Celestia smiled.

Twilight held her breath, as he cheeks puff out and she burst out jumping in a circle yelling.

“Yes, Yes, Yes, Yes, Yes, Yes, Yes!” Twilight beamed with pure joy. Celestia smiled.

“Your lessons will begin immediately, I will write up a schedule for our basic lessons, practised lessons and private advanced lessons. I will discuss with your parents about the change in your living conditions you've a lot to learn, so you'll need to be here most of the time, so a relocation is in order I think.” Twilight hooves trotted to the words 'Private Advanced'

“Now bearing in mind that you are still a filly, I will need somepony to watch you while I'm doing my duties as a Princess.” Celestia tapped a hoof to her chin.

Cadence saw this as a chance. Sure she had her own duties to hold too. Yet she didn't have too many and they didn't run very long, plus... none of them overlapped with Celestia's duties, therefore when Celestia was busy she wouldn't be .Then she could spend that time with Twilight, she wanted to learn more about this unicorn and she was an Alicorn so she might be able teach Twilight a few tricks of her own. Cadence processed this for ten seconds before speaking up.

“I'll do it” Cadence said a little more eager than she intended too.

Both Celestia's and Twilight's ears perked up.

“Cadence are you sure?” Celestia raised an eye brow, giving Cadence the chance to back out.

“Sure I mean my duties aren't the same time as yours so, I'll be free when your not ,plus, there's a certain little unicorns brother, who's worried sick about her.” Twilight's ears fell.

“And?” Cadence added Twilight's ears perked up.

“I'd love to get to know Celestia's prodigy, Shinning's sister and the most magical unicorn I've ever met much, much better” Cadence smiled.

Twilight turned to Celestia jumping up and down with a huge grin on her face. “Please Princess, can she, can she?!” Cadence smiled that this filly was so set on learning, not every pony is.

“Well as long as you behave, I don't see why not” Celestia smiled

“I will! I'll be super good! I promise!” Twilight beamed.

“Really Auntie do you think she will be troublsome?” Cadence laughed.

“I was talking to you Cadence” Celestia smiled.

“I need to go find Shiny!” Twilight said before she bolted for the open door.

“Wait!” Cadence yelled and was prepared to chase after her before a fore-hoof was placed on her shoulder.

“Your felt it too didn't you?” Celestia Whispered.

“Felt what?” Cadence turned around.

Celestia tapped her hoof to her chest, right were her heart was.

Cadence Smiled “Yeah... yeah I did feel it, it felt like for a few moments... I was happy” Cadence smile dropped a bit as a memory flashed.

“Good, you deserve it, it'll be good for you” Celestia lifted Cadences face with her hoof.

“I think she'll be better for you, let the title be dropped for a few hours each day.” Cadence Smiled and so did Celestia.

“Go. Before her brother tears down half the castle” Celestia lowered her hoof.

Cadence smiled, turned and bolted for the door. With Twilight having little legs, it wasn't all that hard to catch up to her. Cadence caught up to Twilight and levitated her onto her back.

“Argg!” Twilight said caught off guard.

Once Cadence put Twilight onto her back she began running full charge down the castle hallways.

“Let's go find Shiny shall we?” Cadence turned and smiled.

“Yes Princess” Twilight laughed. A sound so pure.

Cadence turned and headed for the royal gardens.

The Joy And The Chaos, The Demons We're Made Of.

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Cadence had made it to her room feeling exhausted. She fell straight on her bed and didn't move. Spending such a long time in that cave had left her a little weakened and spending so much energy on casting the changeling's out had exhausted her to the point of collapse. Cadence began to cry, why couldn't she just admit it?

It was about two years into her training with Princess Celestia, But Twilight had progressed at an impressive rate.

“Ready or not here I come!” Cadence yelled as she began searching for a little purple unicorn.

As she searched, Cadence thought about the past two years that Twilight had been in her life. Celestia was certainly happy considering the past few hundred years. Cadence thought how much brighter everyponies life has been since Twilight came into them. Twilight loved every pony she tried her best for her brother, Celestia, her parents and herself. She was a bit sad that Twilight didn't play with the other students much, but Twilight just wanted to study most of the time. The only time she wanted to play was with Cadence, but she didn't complain at least she was having fun. At least she got to spend more time with her.

Cadence heard a quite giggle from underneath a small shrub. 'Let's see if she falls for it again'
Cadence thought.

“Well I guess I can't find her, I'll just have to go read a book all by myself then!” Cadence said before turning around to walk away. She didn't get more than four steps before she heard a little filly scream out.

“No! No! I'm here! Don't read without me Cadence!” Twilight yelled while jumping out of the bushes to chase Cadence down.

“Oh there you are?” Cadence said with a smile on her face, as she turned around and sat on her haunches prepared to be tackled in for a hug.

“Cadence!” Twilight yelled, as she did what Cadence predicted, Twilight jumped up at her wrapping her fore-hooves around her neck and pushing them both onto the grass.

“I found you...” Cadence said while rubbing her hoof over Twilight's mane, messing it up.

“Awwww... I fell for it again” Twilight's face fell.

“Yep, but because I tricked you, I'll read you a bed time story later.” Cadence looked at the filly whose face broke out into a huge smile.

“Yes! Yes! Yes! But wait, you always read me a bed time story” Twilight's tilted her head in confusion.

“Yes because you keep falling for the same trick” Cadence nuzzled her nose against Twilight's causing the filly to blush.

“Hey Twilight?” Cadence asked.

“Yes Cadence?” Twilight smiled.

Cadence loved Twilight's smile, so sincere. One that wasn't fake. She'd met so many ponies whose smile was a fake as the ponies themselves. Yet Twilight's was real.

“How come you don't like playing with the other filly's and colts?” Cadence tilted her head

“Well because I have so much to study, I don't want to waste time on ponies that don't matter” Twilight's smile fell.

“Well that's no good, those ponies can matter, if you put the time, effort and work you can make friends that will be there for life” Cadence smiled as did Twilight. Twilight nuzzled into Cadence's chest.

“Well I have Shiny, Princess Celestia and you, who pony else do I need?”

Cadence frowned. 'This filly sure knows a lot, I mean sure she doesn't need anypony else, but it would be nice to see her at least try, to be sociable' Cadence had an idea.

“Well I'll make you a deal Twilight” Twilight's ears perked up.

“A deal?” Twilight sat up in Cadence's chest.

“Yes a deal, because friendship is one of the most powerful and magical things in Equestria and I hate seeing you not take advantage of it. You may only need me, Shinning and Celestia for what you need, not what you want. I think you should at least try to talk to other filly's and colts and try to make other friends. If you don't like it, I won't make you do it again, but will you try for me?” Cadence tried to pull the saddest face she could.

“But I don't want to!” Twilight pouted.

“Hey” Cadence said as she lifted Twilight's chin with her hoof.

“If you go talk to some other colt's and filly's for an hour, I'll give you your birthday present early”Cadence smirked. If she couldn't get Twilight to go on her own. She had no problem bribing her. Twilight's ears shot up and a huge smile ran across her face.

“You got me a present!” Twilight smile could have out matched her brothers.

“Yes, but you can only have it if you go play with the other filly's and colt's for a while” Cadence smirk dropped to a repressed grin.

“Okay! Okay! I'll go play!” Twilight wormed her way out of Cadences hooves and ran of in the direction of the other foals.

“Wait Twilight!” But Twilight's was gone.

“Come back in an hour!” Cadence screamed.

“Okay!” Twilight yelled.

Cadence smiled and sat back on her haunches. All she had to do now was wait.

….........

“Twilight! Twilight!” Cadence screamed while running through the gardens.

'Where the buck is she!' Cadence thought. Twilight had gone to play with the other foals. That was four hours ago. After the first hour Cadence got worried. Twilight was never one to be late. She'd been running through the gardens for over two hours, she'd had every guard, every maid and every pony she could find looking for her. The sun was just about to set. She was supposed to have a lesson with Celestia's an hour before sun set. Cadence was hoping. Praying. That she'd gone there.

“Twilight!” Cadence began crying.

“Twilight answer me!” Cadence had, had enough. She went to go find Celestia.

Cadence never stopped for one moment. She ran straight to Celestia's Chambers. She finally arrived out of breath. Hitting her hoof as hard as she could on the door. No Reply.

“Auntie! Auntie! It's me Cadence!” No Reply.

“Please Answer! Please!” No Reply.

“Buck!” Cadence turned to run back to the gardens, before running into something and being knocked to the ground.

“Urgh!” Cadence said before opening her eyes to see what she collided with. It was Celestia.

“Ow... There you are Cadence!” Celestia yelled.

“Auntie! I...” Cadence began before being interupted.

“I know you and Twilight enjoy spending time together, but nearly three hours late for a lesson. I must say I'm disappointed. Cadence I...” Celestia said before Cadence butted in.

“Twilight is missing!” Cadence cried.

“Missing!” Celestia boomed in the royal Canterlot voice.

“Yes! We were playing when I said she should go play with the other foals, she went, I told her to be back in an hour, but she didn't come back and I can't find her!” Cadence began balling.

“Now don't panic Cadence” Celestia placed a fore-hoof on Cadences shoulder, while the mare was still crying.

“Don't Panic!” Cadence boomed. “Twilight's missing and it's all my fault and your telling me not to panic!” Cadence tried to run off again before Celestia grabbed her.

“Cadence you have no idea where she is, where is running off in a state going to get you?!” Celestia stated while still holding Cadence in her grasp.

“But! But!” Cadence tried to rebuttal but there was no fighting Celestia's logic.

“Look Cadence you know of my power don't you?” Celestia loosened her grip.

“Better than most ponies” Cadence signed and fell on her haunches.

“Then you know I can use my power to locate anypony under the sun at will don't you?” Celestia released Cadence from her grip.

Cadence ears perked up and she turned around.

“Yes but only those you have a certain connection with, like me for example” Cadence said while still trying to fight off tears.

“Well what do you think my first lesson with Twilight was about?” Celestia smiled

“You mean?” Cadence popped her head up.

“I knew from the moment I met her that she was special, so I took precautions as any caring pony would do” Celestia stood up tall.

“So you know where she is?” Cadence felt a little bit of relief.

“Indeed just give me a moment” Celestia began to lowered her head while a golden aura engulfed her horn. She stood there for a few seconds, seemingly lost to the world before the aura disappeared. She looked up at Cadence with a worried expression.

“She's in the left wing of the royal gardens...” Celestia said with a shaky tone.

“Can't you lock in any closer, the left wing is huge!” Cadence seemed worried.

“I'm trying but something is wrong...” Celestia lowered her head with a frown on her face.

“What do you mean! What's wrong!” Cadence seemed frantic now.

“I can't lock on her because she doesn't want to be found, I find pony's based off the strength of the emotions they give off, and Twilight's only giving off one emotion” Celestia closed her eyes and flared her nostrils.

“What emotion is she giving off!” Cadence was about to cry again.

“Shouldn't you know that Cadence?” Celestia raised an eyebrow.

“Well... I... Can't sense her at all...” Cadence admitted.

“What do you mean Cadence?” Celestia seemed worried.

“You know my power Celestia I can see into a pony's heart, see all there wants and desires, all the dreams and fears... but only if I can sense love from the pony in particular, if I can feel love and grasp it within a pony, I can make a connection and see everything about that pony.” Cadence started crying again.

“But?” Celestia said while lowering her head to Cadence height.

“But so many ponies whose love is corrupt, infested with secret desires, no pony's love is pure any more, except for yours and few others I know..” Cadence's tears fell from her face.

“Then when I met Twilight I found something... Something beautiful... A sweet, pure uncorrupted soul, a pony who only wanted to make ponies proud, Make ponies happy and love them with anything in return. But she's very reserved she only want to give her love and happiness to those she feels who deserve it.” Cadence slumped.

“Like you?” Celestia placed a hoof on her Cadence's shoulder.

Cadence looked up at Celestia tears pouring from her eyes.

“Yeah... like me... I made a connection the moment I met her. I didn't even try, my heart just knew that this was a special kind of love and it would be foalish to throw it away... so I could always sense her love for shinning, her parent's you and me whenever we were together. It made me feel happy. But I can't sense it any more I can't sense her love anymore” Cadence began choking through her sobs.

“That because she isn't feeling that emotion at the moment” Celestia lowered her head.

“Then what emotion is she feeling?!” Cadence was hyperventilating now.

“Pain... that's all she's feeling at the moment... pain, she feels as though she's let us down so she doesn't want to be found, but I have a location but that's all I can get at the moment go I find her. I'll alert the guards, hurry Cadence” Celestia looked at Cadence with all the seriousness she could muster, which if seeing her face a pony would think they're in for a death sentence.

Cadence nodded and ran for the gardens again.

Cadence made it to the left wing of the royal gardens.

“Twilight! Twilight!” Cadence screamed.

Cadence stopped and breathed for a few minutes. 'Remember what Celestia said Cadence, there's no good in running off in a state' Cadence tried to focus her magic to locate Twilight. Her horn glowed and lead her in the direction of where Twilight was.

Cadence turned around a few trees and found her location she opened her eyes to see something that made her feel something she'd never felt before in her entire life... Hate.

I'd Be So Lost If You Left Me Alone.

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To Cadence's Horror she saw a small purple filly laying on the grass in front of a tree eye's closed and matted with tears. As one of the royal guards was leaned over her. Casting some magic on the little filly.

“What is going on here!” Cadence screamed.

The stallion turned around at an alarming speed almost seeming scared. Blocking Cadence from seeing Twilight.

“Ah-h Princess Cadenza, I was ju-just doing my afternoon ch-check around the gardens when I came ac-across Miss Twi-Twilight ly-lying in the grass, I ca-came over to her to try and wake her u-up” The stallion stood straight, but shaking quite a bit.

Cadence tried walking up to Twilight slowly, not taking her eyes off her location for a moment, but continued to talk to the stallion.

“Have you determined what is wrong with her” Cadence's throat felt dry as she approached on shaky hooves.

The stallion stood in front of Twilight hindering Cadence's vision even more.

“Yes Princess but I'm not to sure you would want to see her at the moment, not until a doctor arrives at least” The stallion breathed in a shaky voice.

“And Why The Buck Not!” Cadence lost her composure.

“Because Princess I know how close you two are... and seeing this would destroy you... I have vomited twice now. I've notified a flying patrol and they're getting a doctor as we speak.” The stallion closed the gap between him a Cadence in order to get her to stand back.

“I demand you tell me what happened Guard now!” Cadence boomed causing the stallion to step back a few paces.

“If you insist Princess...” The stallion breathed a deep breath.

“I have several witnesses who have made a statement saying, they saw Miss Twilight walked away with two colt's and a filly in this direction three and a half hours ago.” The stallion waited before continuing.

“And we believe it was those three foals that are the ones that did this” The stallion's voice was shaky.

“Have the three foals been identified?” Cadence tried to keep her composure.

“Yes Princess they are being spoken to by the board now... It appears that she has suffered a lot of physical damage... As for her mental state is concerned I am unsure...” The stallion began to step forward again.

“Physical damage?” Cadence began to cry again.

“I only know some information through visual observation and a quick scan with magic Princess” The stallion started to shuffle his hooves.

“An-and wh-what did you fi-find?” Cadence began to cry uncontrollably.

“She... She's seemed to have suffered from three bruised ribs, two broken. A broken nose.” The stallion held his breath he couldn't bring himself to continue.

“And!” Cadence screamed while tears had matted her fur.

The stallion twitched at the sound, not wanting to continue, fear of nearly destroying the Princess, but he did so reluctantly.

“And her ba-back ho-hoof appears to be spr-sprained, while her front shoulder ap-appears to be dis-dis-dislocated, one of her ey-eyes appears to be very swo-swollen. And... And.. I'm sorry Princess I can't continue” The stallion turned his face to the side with his eyes closed. Raising a hoof to his mouth to avoid choking.

“Then let me see her for myself!” Cadence said while trying to walk past the stallion. Until he held out a hoof before continuing.

“Princess may I ask a personal question?” The stallion choked momentarily.

“What?” Cadence said stood still waiting for the stallion to lower his hoof.

“Has Miss Twilight began her cycle yet, I've heard it starts between the ages of five and twelve for filly's and she is six correct?” The stallion's eyes began to water.

Cadence stomach nearly turned in on itself as she had an idea where the stallion was going with this.

“She is six next week, no she hasn't begun her cycle yet, why do you ask?” Cadence turned to the guard and notice a tear role out of his eye.

“I was afraid of that....” The stallion boked before finishing.

“I did-didn't have a clo-close enough look bu-but a-a large am-amount of bl-blood was coming from underneath h-her tail. I don't think it has come from her mare-mare-marehood though. I pray it hasn't come from there” The stallion's tears flowed freely now.

Cadence's heart broke. She could feel the love being drain from it.

“What do you mean?!” Cadence cried.

The stallion closed his eyes. Breathed deep. Before saying...

“I believe Miss Twilight has been r-r-r-raped” The stallion lowered his hoof. His eyes now pouring with tears before he choked and turned to run towards a bush. He began throwing up into the bush.

As Cadence was looking at the stallion throwing up. She closed her eyes and turned towards were Twilight was laying. The first thing Cadence saw was a large burn mark on the side of Twilight's body. 'Obviously a result of a fire spell' With the words 'Princesses Pet' Carved into it.

Cadence slowly walk up to Twilight's unconscious form. She sat down in front of her slowly reaching out a hoof to place on the burn. Her ears perked and her head turned with lighting speed as she heard Twilight begin to speak.

“Cad-Cadence...” Twilight said, it appeared she was still unconscious.

“Cadence... I'm sorry... I-I tried so hard... I tried so hard to make friends... but...but...I failed you...I'm so s-sorry” Twilight's closed eyes allowed some tears to escape.

Cadence just sat there starring at the purest filly she'd ever met, not understanding how ponies could be so cruel.

Cadence attempted to pick the filly up in a aura of magic. She stopped as she noticed the blood. She stood up and walked towards Twilight's rump and lifted her tail. There was a large amount of blood under her tail. Cadence turned and boked as she saw a white substance mixed in with it. She turned back and lifted her tail higher, she saw the source of all the blood. It appeared that the blood was coming from Twilight's tail hole as she noticed a large amount white liquid pouring out of it.

'Twilight must have been torn apart' Cadence thought. 'At least it's her tail hole and not her marehood' Cadence lowered her tail and shuddered. 'What do you mean, at least it's only her tailhole?!' Cadence's mind screamed 'whether or not it's her tail hole or marehood, Twilight has been raped!' Cadence tears poured from her eyes. 'She didn't want to make friends and you made her! It's your fault she hurt! Your fault she's like this!' Cadence's mind told her.

In the mist of Cadence's investigating the stallion guard had walked up to her.

“Will you be fine waiting here for a doctor to arrive Princess?” The stallion choked.

“I think so... are you going to find Shinning Armour and tell him?” Cadence kept staring at Twilight.

“No...I think this would kill him more than you...” The stallion turned to walk away.

“Then where are you going?” Cadence looked up at the stallion.

The stallion paused but did not turn around.

“I have known Twilight for as long as I have known Shinning Armour... Which is over four years now... and neither of them deserve this kind of pain... whatever happens I will make sure that justice will prevail... do you have any objections?” The stallion stated in a calm low voice. Then took his leave.

“No pony deserves this. I am a Princess of love. Any pony that is willing to do this another pony... Has no capacity for love... and does not deserve to live... I will not stop you in whatever you do. But may I simply ask that you return when you have finished... So that Twilight knows that there are ponies who care for her...” Cadence said and stared at Twilight again.

“As you wish your highness” The guard bowed before leaving.

Cadence picked Twilight up in a magical aura and brought her to her chest. She hugged Twilight's unconscious body and wrapped her tail around her waist. She began to rock back and forth singing, 'hush now... quiet now... time to lay your sleepy head... hush now... quiet now... time to go to bed...' Cadence sang crying the whole time.

….......................

“Princess! Princess Celestia!” A young Pegasus yelled as she ran into the throne room. She skidded to a halt in front of the throne.

“Yes what is it?” Celestia raised her head from the papers she was working on for the night court.

“It's about Miss Twilight Sparkle.” The pony guard said out of breath.

“Have you found her!” Celestia teleported from the throne to just a few inches in front of the Pegasus causing her to jump back.

“Y-yes your Highness” The Pegasus lowered her head and bit her lip.

“And... What happened!” Celestia boomed.

“She is being taken to the infirmary at the moment your highness, she has suffered a large amount physical damage and being treated.” The Pegasus began to shrink under Celestia's gaze.

“Physical Damage!” Celestia voice shattered one of the windows.

“Several witnesses have stated seeing Twilight wander off with two colts and a filly three and a half hours before sunset” The guard gulped before continuing. “She was found by Lieutenant Reaper who, called me down as I was patrolling, I immediately went and got doctor Reetro who followed me to her location, he is taking her to the infirmary now” The Pegasus began sweating.

“Has Shinning Armour and Princess Cadence been informed! What of the two colts and filly suspected of doing this, were are they!” Celestia eyes began to twitch furiously.

“Shinning Armour has yet to be informed, the two colts and filly are being held in the boarding room as we speak. As for Princess Cadence...” The guard lowered her head.

“Yes!” Celestia screamed.

The guard shivered.

“She was found hugging Twilight's body, she's been escorted to her room for the time being”

“How is Twilight?” Tear threatened to fall from Celestia's eyes yet she remained her composure.

“Doctor Reetro preformed a full survey in the garden and she is being treated for it in the infirmary.” The guard stood up straight.

“What of the filly's what are they being charged with?”

The guard closed her eyes before speaking.

“The filly and the youngest colt are being charged with assault, while the oldest colt is being charged with....” The guard turned her head and looked out one of the windows before finding the courage to finish. “The oldest colt is being charged with... rape” Celestia's ears fell as well as her mane, as it stopped flowing and slowly began to rest on her head.

“Rape...?” Celestia breathed.

“Yes.. although both the colts and the filly are under-age foals so the charges might be dropped..” The guard said with an exhausted tone.

“I'll be damned if they do!” Celestia screamed her face slowly turning into one of rage.

“Princess...” The guard looked up at Celestia.

She looked down eyes full of rage, nostrils flaring.

“I think you should go talk to Cadence I must inform Shinning Armour” The guard turned to leave.
While Celestia still stood there in a state of rage.

“Oh Princess Celestia...” The guard turned just before she left through the door.

“Yes Spark?” Celestia said raising her head just a touch.

“Is it possible for a ponies cutie mark to change, say if they're purpose in life no longer existed then would it change. Say if a ponies cutie mark represented love... but they no longer felt love could it change.” The guard turned around and raised an eyebrow.

“I'm not sure why do you ask...?” Celestia's stood up completely tears on the verge of breaking out.

“Go talk to Princess Cadence” And with that the Pegasus left.

“Cadence...” Celestia bolt for the open door heading in the direction of Cadence's room.

'No Cadence don't let go! Don't give up just yet!' Celestia thought as she ran through the castle halls as fast as she could.

Celestia bolted through Cadence doors.

“Cadence!” She shouted.

Celestia turned to see Cadence sat on her bed starring at both of her hooves which were covered in blood.

“Blood..?” Celestia whispered.

Celestia cautiously approached Cadence's bed. As she got closer she saw Cadence's Cutie Mark. A look of horror formed on the Princesses face. What used to a beautiful, blue, crystal heart. Had now had a very large crack in it.

“Cadence?” Celestia said lightly.

“It's funny isn't it?” Cadence said not moving an inch.

“Pardon me?” Celestia seemed scared.

“It's funny how easy it is to destroy somepony. How easily a pony can be, Mentally, Emotionally, Spiritually and Physically destroyed in a instant. How EveryPony Can Break like glass” Cadence Fainted.

You Locked Yourself In Your Bedroom.

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Cadence awoke in her chambers, eyes blurry and swollen, obliviously a result from the amount of crying she had done. She turned to her left to see a silhouette of a pony but due to her conditions she couldn't make out who it was beside her bed.

“Ah your awake Princess” The voice echoed.

Cadence recognised the voice.

“Doctor Reeetro?” Cadence asked.

“The one and only” He smiled.

“Twilight... Where's Twilight?” Cadence tried to sit up before Doctor Reeetro laid a hoof on her chest causing her to slowly lay down again.

“She's fine Princess, she's resting now but... quite frankly I'm more concerned for you” Cadence could sense the worry in his voice.

“I'm fine I just need to find Twilight” Cadence tried to sit up again before being prompted to lay back down.

“She's resting Princess and you should too” Reeetro ordered.

“I can't rest when my Twilight is in pain!” Cadence forced herself up pushing through Reeetro's weak defences.

“Still as strong as ever huh? Alright... I thought negotiation wouldn't work but it was worth a try, truth is, Princess Celestia has ordered me and 'Sargent Spark' to make sure you don't leave this room until the situation has been resolved, she doesn't know what's going to happen, but whatever happens... she doesn't want you to be there for it” Reeetro said in a slow calm voice showing no emotion on the subject.

“Like hell I am!” Cadence boomed “I'm not leaving Twilight all on her own I just want to see Twilight why can't I?!” Cadence began crying again.

“Because Princess you are in no state too, and unfortunately only one visitor at a time..” Reetro still showing no emotion.

“One visitor? Who's with her now?” Cadence felt a strong force grip onto her heart.

“Shining Armour” He said flatly.

Cadence's hooves griped the blankets as tears poured from her eyes.

“That is why you must remain here Princess, Myself and Spark will escort you to her if we hear word of Shining's departure” He said turning away and going to check on his medical supplies.

“How can you do that?!” Cadence screamed through the tears.

“I beg your pardon Princess?” Reeetro turned around no emotion shown on his face.

“Act like nothing is wrong! Like Twilight's just another injured pony you've had to take care of! Like she's the same as any pony who walked through your doors! Why aren't you upset?! Why aren't you angry?!” Cadence screamed at the top of her lungs.

Reeetro still showed no emotion on his face.

“You miss understand me Princess” He said in his still calm tone.

“Then what am I missing?!” Cadence continued to cry.

“I am upset. I am angry. But it isn't my job to be. Right now it's not my job to be upset, it's not my job to be angry, my job is to help ponies who are hurt, that's the vow I made coming here that I would always remember my job, I'm sure when I go home tonight that I will do something I wouldn't think I'm capable of... but right now it's my job to help ponies. Not to be angry” Reetro spoke softly and calmly throughout his speech yet Cadence saw the sadness in his eyes.

Cadence lowered her head realising he was right. Twilight had been hurt. There's no changing that.
What would him being angry do. Nothing.

Cadence sighed.

“Princess if your truly worried, I can go check on Shining and Princess Celestia if you like” Reetro said with his ever calm tone.

Cadence's ears perked up. “Would you?!” Cadence fought the urge to cry again.

“Only if you vow to remain in here” His eyes glazed with a serious look.

“I promise... but wait aren't you supposed to make sure I stay in here?” Cadence tilted her head to the side in confusion.

Reetro smiled before he turned and walked towards the door. “Spark is. I was ordered to look after you until I believed you no longer needed my assistance... which I think is now. Although I am ordered to check on you every ten minutes. I can only leave for longer if I need something from the infirmary” He reached the door and laid a hoof on it before tilting his head around. “and... I believe I'm all out of sedatives” He winked before taking his leave.

“Thank you” Cadence whispered.

Cadence sat there.

Waiting. Wondering. Praying that Twilight was alright.

…......................

“I hope you all understand what it is you've done here. You have all assaulted, violated and mentally scared another student. Not just any student. Princess Celestia's Prodigy and the little sister of a royal guard. Twilight Sparkle.”

The three little Unicorns just sat there. Uninterested in knowledge of what they had done.

“Just so you know. You have all been immediately dropped from the School for Gifted Unicorns.”

The colts and filly's ears pricked up.

“None of you will receive any kind of recognisation from this place. You will never be allowed near the premises again. You might be under aged, but that still doesn't change what you've done. Even if you leave here scot free, they'll be plenty of ponies waiting outside for you, and once you leave this room I am no longer responsible for your well being. Which quite frankly I'm glad I'm not.

The stallion turned to walk away and nodded to the guard on his way out of the room.

The guard strolled up to the three small Unicorns who stared up with fear.

He tilted his head down, As his eyes burned with a fury strong.

“I am Lieutenant Reaper, the Princess will be here shortly for your sentencing... but before that I believe you all must learn a lesson.”

“A Les-Lesson” The youngest colt gulped.

“That magic is made to help, not harm. Those who use it wrongly shan't be allowed to have it” Reaper stepped forward.

“Remember my face for it shall be the hell that will plague your minds for the rest of your life” With that statement Reaper closed his eyes. As a yellow aura engulfed his horn. A tear rolled out a closed eyes as he whispered... “Twilight I'm sorry” With that he opened his eyes and the next this heard all around the castle was three earth shattering screams.

Lying On The Floor When I Break Through.

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Celestia barged in through the doors that were keeping hold of the three foals, only to see something that made her stomach turn.

The three foals were all lying on the ground unconscious except for the eldest colt who was writhing in pain. She looked around only to see Lieutenant Reaper standing just a few feet away from them.

She looked towards the eldest colt who was lying on the ground next to a puddle of blood, she looked at his blood soaked mane as she slowly began to walk towards him. As she looked towards his head all she could see was a small stub of what, she presumed used to be his horn. She slowly approached him. Just standing within inches of the young colt he slowly looked up.

“Princess please...” He pleaded. Before too falling unconscious.

The princess wasn't sure what to make of this situation. More importantly she wasn't sure what to think. Here was a young colt who had his whole life ahead of him. Laying. Bleeding on the castle floor, no longer possessing the ability to control magic. His entire life had been lost, and she found that she did not care.

She turned around to find Lieutenant Reaper still standing in the same spot. Seemingly un-phased by his actions.

“Lieutenant?” Celestia asked with a calm tone.

“Yes princess?” He said while not changing his body composure. Slow, calm breathing, barley blinking, all in all he looked like just any other guard on duty.

“Do you know what happened here?” Celestia said fearing the answer but already knowing it.

“Yes princess” He stated still keeping his calm composure.

“Care to enlighten me?” She said taking a few steps closer to the guard.

“I stripped these foals of their magic, for they had no right to own it princess. I will not lie to you and I am willing to face the crimes I have committed.” He said in a calm tone. Celestia was not shocked by what she heard. Being in the same situation she might have done the same. She knew that Reaper was only doing what might have never been done. Getting justice. As he had said that Celestia began to hear hoof steps down the hallways. By the sound of them, they were more guards. She took one last look at Reaper and then at the foals lying on the ground, she took a breath, her horn began to shine and she made a choice.

“Princess! Princess!” Three guards, including Sargent Spark came running into the room. Only to be shocked by what they found.

Princess Celestia what standing a few feet away from the injured foals, and a few inches from the unconscious body of Solo Reaper.

“Ah guards” She said calmly while walking towards the triple, flustered guards.

“Are you okay princess?” One panic-stricken guard said.

“I am fine, but it appears that Lieutenant Reaper has been knocked unconscious while he was in here, guarding the three foals that are suspected of raping and assaulting Twilight Sparkle”

“Do you know how her became unconscious princess?” One of the guards asked.

“Timber wolf attack it seems, many of them have been seen prowling around the castle I've heard” Celestia said while looking at the three guards.

“And I believe that the foals under suspection have received the same fate” She turned around to and pointed to the three foals.

“Any witnesses?” One guard asked.

“I am unsure” The princess responded. Then as if on cue, the board directer of the school who was interviewing the foals walked in.

“I saw what happened your magistracy” The stallion said as he entered the room.

Celestia's ears perked up. Sargent Spark who was present, saw the worry in her eyes while the other guards were paying attention to the stallion.

“What did you see?” One of the guards asked.

“When I left after interviewing the foals, I left them in the hooves of Lieutenant Reaper. I went to go find Sargent Spark to inform her that they were now ready for the princesses arrival” The stallion looked at Spark.

“Can you confirm this Spark?” One of the guards asked.

Spark knew he was lying. She'd never spoke to him she went to tell Celestia about Twilight then went straight back to her patrol before being informed that she had to guard Cadences rooms. Yet she knew this was for protecting Reaper. She knew he only did what he did to protect Twilight. An innocent filly who had done no wrong to the world. They say there are two kinds of evil. Ponies who do evil things, and ponies who see evil things being done and do nothing to stop it. Reaper was not evil. He was not spiteful. He would never hurt a pony without a reason. She knew this so she made a choice.

“Yes I can, after I left informing the Princess on Twilight's condition and were-abouts, He found me outside of princess Cadences room and he informed me, I then proceeded to come find you two in order the escort the princess to them” Spark said with a strong voice.

“Okay. Then what happened” The guard said.

“I then realised, I had left my clipboard with my notes from the interview in... here... somewhere... ah ha! Here they are” The stallion said while picking up a clipboard and a pen.

When did they get there? Celestia thought I didn't see them there a few minutes ago.

“So I came back to collect them when I heard a shattering noise, I rushed to the room and opened the door to see a timber wolf attacking Lieutenant Reaper, I rushed out trying to find Sargent Spark to come help with the matter” The stallion finished.

“Thank you” The guards said in unison.

“What do you wish we do now princess?” One guard said.

“I wish that you go and find Doctor Reeetro and bring him here immediately” She said.

“Yes princess” They both said and ran out of the room to fulfil her orders. After they left the stallion at the door merrily winked and walked away.

Celestia took a glance at Reaper on the floor and the wound on his chest, she sighed.

“Did I do the right thing Spark?” She asked as her ears fell.

“I'm not sure princess but what ever you did, I would not blame you. I have know Reaper for seven years he's a good pony, and the last thing I could stand would be seeing him behind bars” Spark smiled up at the princess before continuing.

“Many ponies are capable of many things, but acting out without a reason was not one of Reapers. He's a good pony he would never hurt somepony without a reason, that you and I both know for a fact. Whatever the outcome I would have defended him. Just like I would defend you princess.” Spark smiled and began to walk away.

“Now if you don't mind I must return to my post outside of princess Cadences room. Do you wish I inform her? Well... more specifically do you wish I correctly inform her?” Spark asked.

“Yes, tell her the situation I think she knew what was going to happen anyway. If anypony is relived to find justice it will be Cadence” Celestia smiled and added.

“And thank you Spark for everything” She smiled.

“My pleasure princess” Spark walked out of the room and left Celestia with the foals and Reaper.

I Pull You In To Feel Your Heartbeat.

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Cadence couldn't stand it as the tears streamed down her face, suddenly she heard loud hoof steps down the hall. It was Twilight. She knew it was her, she felt it. Cadence couldn't find the strength to get up, she couldn't really find the strength to do anything so she just laid there. Cadence heard the guards yelling. She wanted to be alone, she told them that much. Letting Twilight in would just erase the remaining strength she had left. Still she listened very closely to what they were saying.

“What do you mean I can't see Cadence?!” She heard Twilight's voice scream.

“Princess Cadenza has informed us that she does not want to be interrupted” One of the guards said.

“This is ridiculous! As personal prodigy to Princess Celestia and the sister of Shining Armour Captain of the Royal Guards I demand you let me in!” Twilight screamed.

Cadence wasn't sure what she wanted, she wanted more than anything to talk to Twilight, but she couldn't stand the thought of letting Twilight see her like this. Seeing her so broken. So she kept quiet and waited. Waited for them to open the door. Waited for Twilight to leave, anything she just waited.

“We apologise Miss Sparkle but unless Princess Celestia or Shining Armour is with you to grant you permission we are not allowed to give you access to Princess Cadenza's room” The guard held his tone.

“Fine! Then I'll be back with Princess Celestia in a few moments!” Cadence heard Twilight's hoof steps fade in the distance, in one way she was relived and another disappointed, but she couldn't care anymore. She closed her eyes and allowed herself to fall into an uncomfortable sleep.

Cadence awoke to the sound of a hoof banging on her door. She trotted over and opened it to reveal Sargent Spark.

“Ah Spark is something wrong?” As she stepped aside to allow Spark access into her room.

“I guess it depends on how you look at it Princess” Spark grinned briefly.

“Is it Twilight, is she okay?” Cadence asked ready to break out into tears.

“She is fine, she is resting in the infirmary” Spark smiled. “This is regarding the foals who were responsible for putting her in there.”

“And? What happened?” Cadence asked fearing the worst.

“Lieutenant Reaper took matters into his own hooves and stripped the foals of their magic by removing their horns” Spark said flatly.

Cadence gasped and fell onto her haunches.

“Princess Celestia found him next to the foals unconscious bodies before the guards did and wounded him, then blamed the whole situation on a 'Timber Wolf attack', Silver Signature head of the examiners confirmed this, and so have I” Spark said with a kind smile.

“So what really happened?” Cadence said still shocked.

“Do you honestly care Princess? Twilight is healing and the foals responsible for it have been punished, forgive me... I thought you would be more... well... not happy per say but more comforted knowing this information” Spark said feeling guilty.

“Do not mistake my hesitance for discomfort spark, I am thrilled, ecstatic even... but...” Cadence stuttered.

“But?”

“I am a Princess of Equestria and the Princess of love, how can I say that I'm those things if I don't even feel mercy for some poor foals who made a wrong choice” Cadence just stared at the floor shuffling her hooves.

“If I may interject Princess?” Spark asked hesitantly.

“Yes Spark?” Princess looked up.

“No matter how you feel on the situation I believe Princess that the fact you are even considering mercy for those foals shows that you have love and compassion ,it's just a shame that Twilight had to be the cause of this lesson” Spark frowned “Either way Princess what's done is done and I feel no guilt for what happened to those foals, and well yes I do feel bad that they're lives have been reduced to this but at the same time, we have all been through much worse and I'm sure there's worse to come but as long as you remain true to yourself then, myself, reaper and all the others guards and servants will remain true to you” Spark offered a weak smile.

“I hope your right Spark, I hope your right”Cadence lowered her head as a single tear broke free as it hit the floor it thumped in Cadences ears. Soon her eyes watered quickly as she thought of Twilight, the one thing that mattered now.

…................................

“But I don't wanna go!” Twilight yelled holding onto the door post of her soon to be old bedroom.

“Come on....ugh..... Twilie, you have too, your moving closer....urgh.... to Princess Celestia's royal chamber so you can....urgh........learn more about magic won't that be fun!” Shining said pulling with all his might.

“I. Said. No!” Twilight stated before using her magic too tighten her grip on the post.

Shining's grip slipped and he fell onto his haunches with a thud.

“Ow!” He said hitting the floor, he got up a produced a very powerful stare. “Twilie?” He stated staring down at her.

“I'm not moving” She huffed before turning back to hug the post.

“Phffff” Shining sighed, knowing he was losing this battle.

“Why do I have to go, I like it here” Twilight frowned.

“Look....” He said while rubbing the back of his head with his hoof. “I know you don't want to go, but you'll get to be closer to Celestia. You'll learn all new kinds of magic, the kind that can't be done in the open. You'll live in a big tower and get to see across the sky, doesn't that sound magical” Shining put on his best smile.

“No...........” Twilights voice softened. “That sounds lonely.......” She let go of the post just enough to slide to the floor.

“If I move there, I won't be able to see you that often.” She shrugged

“Yeh ya will” Shining walked over to her and placed a hoof on her shoulder.

“I'll come round every week and we'll have one day to ourselves, I promise” He turned her round and smiled down at a teary eyed Twilight.

“Only once a week.....” Twilight whispered.

Shinning lost his goofy smile but gained a determined grin.

“Hey” he lightly punched her in the arm, to which she raised her hoof and rubbed where he punched, and looked up with a slightly annoyed look.

“Yeah once a week may not seem like a lot, but it'll be a hell of a 'once a week' ” he winked.

Twilight's gaze softened, she stopped rubbing her arm and cracked a smile. “Can you get Cadence to come as well?” Her smile grew bigger.

Shining slumped. Cadence huh?

“Sorry kiddo I think she'll be busy most of the time, but I promise you I'll try” He offered a weak smile.

Twilight's ears dropped as she stared at the floor.

“Guess that's a no then?” She said with a hint of anger in her voice.

“Hey listen! I know it's been a while since you last saw Cadence but she's just busy as all. I mean your ten years old now, you don't really need a foal-sitter anymore do you!? Your not a filly anymore are you!?” Shining said a little harsher than he intended.

Twilight flinched. She looked up at her big brother then down again.

“No..... I don't need a foal-sitter, but I still need a friend” Twilight said as harsh as she intended.

Shining's ears dropped for a split second before he perked right back up.

“Well yeh.... I know she's your friend as well..... and she's not just your foal-sitter....... and I know you miss her.... but hey she'll come see you as soon as she can.... I promise.... and hey! Ya still got me kiddo, I ain't just your big bro, I'm BBBFF remember?” He smiled down at her.

Twilight sighed.

“Yeah but your here less than she is......” Twilight squinted her eyes.

Shining's ears dropped for the third time that conversation, but this time they stayed down. He began to think rapidly 'Well yeah I've been quite busy during the past couple days...weeks....months...wait......he thought. When was the last time we actually hung out.... yesterday...no..no..no... I was training the new recruits.....urm...last week......nope...Princess Celestia......had that meeting that needed extra guards... urm! Last month!..... no I had to deal with those griffins that went wild at the royal meeting.... Urm! Wait! Wait! I know! Her birthday I was definitively there on her birthday..... for the first hour before I got called away...... but we talked for a few minutes yeh that was the last time we talk for a while when was that again................... 7 months ago............. 7..........months...........ago.........' Shining's mind stop when he realised that.
'No....no....no!...... Shit!.......it can't have been that long ago.'

In the midst of his mental breakdown there was knock on the door.

“Come in...” Twilight said

“Excuse me, Miss Sparkle” A deep voice said.

Twilight glanced upwards and he ears shot up as a smile spread across her face.
“Reaper!” She screamed running toward him for a hug, he picked her up with his magic and span her around in the air.

“Hello there Miss Sparkle” He said with a smile.

“How many times do I have to ask you to call me Twilight” She huffed trying to break free of his grasp.

“At least once more Miss Sparkle” He chuckled. Before he levitated her towards the ground.

“Why are you here?” She questioned.

“I'm here to escort you toward your new quarters, Miss Sparkle” He smiled.

“Do I really have to go....” He ears fell again.

“Well no you don't have to go, but I think it would be wise to go, think of all the things you'll get to learn. Everything. All kinds of magical knowledge opened up to you. Wouldn't that be a good enough reason to leave?” He tilted his head slightly.

“I guess so...” She huffed.

“Well let's be on our way shall we Miss Sparkle” He motioned for the door.

“Okay... Bye Shining!” She yelled as she left the door on her route to her new room.

'Shining........Shining....... not big bro, not BBBFF, not even shiny? Just Shining?' Shining thought to himself. 'That's right your no longer her BBBFF, your not her big bro anymore, your just another pony to her now.' Shining's slumped was obviously picked up by Reaper.

“Commander?” He asked.

No reply.

“Commander Armour?” He said a little louder.

Blank.

“Shining Armour!” He yelled.

“huh wah....” Shining stuttered.

“I said me and Miss Sparkle are departing now.” Reaper said loud and clear.

“Oh....yes carry on.......” Reaper turned to leave before Shining stopped him.

“Wait Lieutenant Reaper?” Shining asked

“Yes Commander?” He turned to face Shining”

“Was it worth it?” Shinning asked glancing down at Reapers chest.

Reaper looked down and then look down the hall to where Twilight had already gotten ahead. Stared at her, and replied without turning his head. “Every moment...... I'll be on my way Commander” With that Reaper left.

Shining stared at the floor, at the room that used to be Twilight's. The place that was just torn away from her.

'Cadence' he thought 'Where are you........ she really needs you right now'

With that Shining closed his eyes and sighed

Can You Hear Me Screaming, "Please Don't Leave Me!"

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Knock Knock “Princess?” No answer.

Knock Knock “Princess Cadence?” No answer.

Spark sighed. It had been three days since Cadence was last seen. Two weeks since she last left her room. Five months since she had spoken to anypony. Cadence was broken. EveryPony knew.

“Princess Cadenza?” Spark strained while knocking twice more.

“Princess I know you are in there please open the door.” Spark pleaded. Nothing.

Spark sighed. Ever since the event Cadence had refused to leave her room unless absolutely necessary. Only leaving to collect food that was left outside, even then she did it without being noticed. She had ordered all guards to leave her alone and not interrupt her, unless for a real emergency. She had drifted away. After the indecent, she still managed to converse with ponies. Mainly Celestia, Spark and Reaper, but even that had drifted away. Cadence had blamed herself for what happened to Twilight. She believed it was all her fault. She had only seen Twilight three times in the whole year. Three Times. Cadence couldn't face what had happened. She couldn't face Twilight knowing she had let her down, failed to protect her. So she faded from Twilight's life almost completely. She hadn't spoke to Shining since the incident. She couldn't face him either. Couldn't face the look on her former best friends face. Knowing that he would look at her with disgust. With betrayal. She wouldn't go find him. She wouldn't know what to say. She couldn't make it better couldn't fix what happened so she avoided it. Just like she was avoiding everypony else.

Eventually she faded into obscurity. The many attempts by Reaper and Spark to get Cadence out, help her recover had gone in vain, and eventually so did Celestia's. The Princess had tried on many occasions to get Cadence out of her room but they were also in vain. The only pony who still knew of Cadence's existence was Reeetro. Celestia had made sure that he was sent there every week to ensure Cadence's well being, but even he left the room feeling defeated.

Spark sighed again. She was never good at talking to Ponies. Which is half the reason she became a guard because she knew she wouldn't have to, but here she was asking, begging, almost pleading with Cadence to open the door.

“Princess open the door now!” Spark finally screamed. If any other guard had heard her she would have been reprimanded for yelling at the Princess but she knew this had to be done. She was just about to give up when she heard the sound of a lock turning. The door opened a crack and Spark hesitantly stepped in before shutting the door quietly behind her. Sparks eyes needed time to adjust. It was dark, darker than a winter night. However she knew the room fairly well and walked over towards a table where an oil lap sat. She turned it on filling the room with barley little light. She would have attempted to open the curtains to Cadence's windows but the last attempt ended with Cadence hurling a vase towards her head.

“Princess?” she scanned the room looking for a sign of life, anything.

There in the dark right hand corner of the room. Cadence was sat on the corner of her bed hunched over staring at the floor. A tray of uneaten food sat in front of her.

“Cadence....” Spark said in no more than a whisper.

Cadence just stared at the floor, no movement, no blinking, nothing.

Spark stepped closer feeling her heart clench. Cadence was broken.

Cadence was skinny, too skinny to be considered healthy. She had large bags and dark rings on her eyes. Celestia knows when she must of last slept. Her eyes were bloodshot although no tears were present. She wore nothing of her regal gala. No tiara, no pendent, no shoes. Her mane was a mess and she just stared at the ground unable to move, think, barely even breath. If she kept this up she would slowly wither and die. Maybe she wanted to.

“Cadence?” Spark asked speaking louder than before. Nothing

“Cadence?” Spark asked louder again. Nothing

“Cadence please look at me!” Spark screamed. Nothing.

Spark sighed. “Princess I knows this has been hard for you, it's been hard on all of us.” Spark spoke quietly. Spark wasn't Celestia. She didn't have a thousand years worth of wisdom. She didn't have the social skills to fix Cadence. She couldn't offer comfort, or relief, but she had to try. She spoke not as a hired guard but as a friend.

“Cadence.....” She stared. “I'm not good at this...” She felt defeated and gazed at the floor the same as Cadence. “I know your hurt.... I can understand that much, but what good are you doing anypony sitting here?!” She yelled. “Celestia is worried, she's scared Cadence, she's scared of losing you, were all scared of losing you!” Spark yelled Cadence hadn't even flinched.

“I know your hurt, and I know I could never understand the pain. I felt so many things that day, so much hated which is probably only a quarter of what you felt, but this isn’t good!” Sparked screamed. Cadence never even blinked.

Spark's eyes began to glisten. She couldn't stand it. She couldn't stand the Princess of love being so broken. Cadence was gone. She was gone and there was nothing she could do about it.

“She was asking for you again” Spark stared off into the wall, not noticing Cadence's sudden ear twitch.

“She misses you Cadence. Shining misses you” Spark turned to face Cadence and noticed the sudden shiver at the mention of Commander Armours Name.

“And I know you miss them. What good has locking yourself anyway done. What good are you doing hiding from the world! What's done is done. We can't erase it, but you can't just ignore it either” Spark screamed tears flowing freely.

“How is this fair to her! To Shining! To Celestia! After everything they've done for you! After everything you've been through, how can you stand to let it end like this! She's hurting Cadence and I know you are too, but she doesn't deserve this. She doesn't deserve to be forgotten!” Sparks voice grew louder and harsher.

“How can you just sit there!?” She shrieked

Cadence didn't flinch.

Sparks ears fell down in defeat. Cadence was broken and there was no bringer her back.

“I never thanked you.” She turned away wiping her snout.

Cadences ear twitched.

“For saving me that day.” Her voice lowered.

Cadence's head tilted slightly to the right.

“If it wasn't for you I wouldn't have all this. A job, a home, a life, friends.” Her voice got quieter. “I always promised myself I'd protect you. That was my debt. My promise” She looked at Cadence with a pained looked.

“But look at me, crying. Knowing your broken and I can't do anything about it! Knowing how hurt you are and I can't do a bucking thing about it!” She clenched her eyes shut.

“I promised to protect you and I can't! I'm sorry Cadence but I'm trying!” She screamed. Cadence tilted her head a little bit more.

“Come back Cadence please......” Spark begged. Cadence just stared down at the floor again. Not moving. Tears slowly filling her eyes for 100th time that day.

Spark slumped. What could she do? Nothing.

“She's moving today.” Spark admitted.

Cadence's eyes glistened.

“She wanted to see you. She wanted to say goodbye” Spark began to head towards the door. Putting the lamp back onto the table.

“She misses you Cadence, we all do. Please come back” Spark choked out before shutting the door behind her.

Cadence's tears ran freely now. “I'm sorry” She whispered to the empty room, and the sound of a clicking lock was heard.

Spark walked down the halls tears trailing her way. She was blinded. Blinded by emotion, guilt, regret everything. So blinded that she didn't notice walking past Shining Armour. However Shining noticed her and headed towards Cadence's Bedroom. Being a captain of the royal guard had it's perks but so did being a friend. Shining had start acting like one. He arrived at Cadence's room and used him magic on the lock. In case of emergency's Celestia had granted him this power. He opened the door to the room. His horn emitting a faint glow. He noticed something that broke him nearly as much as the incident that caused this.

“Cadence” He whispered.

Cadence froze.

….........................................................

Cadence roused from a restless sleep. To the sound of hooves banging on her door. She wanted it to stop wanted more than anything for it to stop.

“Princess Cadence our apologises but Princess Celestia has granted Miss Twilight Sparkle permission to enter” The guard said.

Cadence froze as a deja vu seemed to ring in her ears. However she could not hear it over the thumping of her own heart. She knew it would come to this. This would be her end and she was more than ready for it. Cadence held her breath before saying.

“Let her in”

Shortly after the doors opened, Cadence closed her eyes and put on the bravest face she could. Waiting for the impact. When it did not arrive she opened her eyes to a sight that shook her to her very core. Twilight was crying but not of anger or hatred or betrayal but a look of relief.

“Cadence I'm so happy your okay” Twilight beamed.

Something inside Cadence broke. This wasn't what should of been happening. Twilight shouldn't be happy, she should hate her.

A painful memory rose to the surface.

Cadence screamed.

Long Endless Flyways, You're Silent Beside Me.

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“What do you mean you've erased her memory!” Cadence screamed to Celestia.

“Why do you think Cadence...” Celestia sighed. “Would you have preferred if I'd not?”

“Of course! You have no right to! Altering the minds of ponies Celestia isn't that beneath you!” Cadences eyes began to fill with tears. “You have no right-”

“I have every right Cadenza!” Celestia Shouted. “Twilights parents and Shining have given me the go ahead, they have agreed that this is the best option!” Celestia rose from the throne.

“For you maybe! Forcing Twilight to forget this event will only hurt her! What happens when she finds out! When she remembers, what happens when this horrible event comes back to her! What then!” Cadence began to pace heavily back and forth. Tears falling form her eyes to the stone floor.

“I do not like this any more than you do Cadence but it is the best option. Twilight is just a filly, she should have never suffered this but alas she has, I did not want to do it, but letting her remember this would me more cruel.” Celestia's ears fell.

“How? How would letting her remember be more cruel” Cadence stared at Celestia with a face full of betrayal.

“Hasn't poor Twilight had enough abuse!” Celestia boomed. “Cadence I know your angry, heart broken even but now is not the time!” Celestia walked over to Cadence. “Do you want Twilight to grow up remembering what she suffered, remembering what those colts and filly did to her! Do you want her to refrain from ever trying to make friends again! Do you want her to grow up alone!” Celestia stared down at Cadence with glistening eyes.

“Yes if it means she's safe!” Cadence was not backing down.

“How selfish Cadence.... I thought better of you” Celestia turned to walk away.

“You'd really deny Twilight that? Deny her from making friends? Would you also prefer I lock her away from the world as well?” Celestia turned her head and narrowed her eyes towards Cadence.

“She wouldn't be locked away, She has her parents, Shining, me, you, Reaper and plenty of others who would gladly look after her. She doesn't need any-pony else..... We..... We can protect her” Cadence stared at the marble floor.

“For how long Cadence? How long before she wonders? How long before she begins asking questions? Asking why she can't leave the castle? Why she can't be left alone? Why Shining is acting so protective? Why your so broken? What then Cadence? Your right. One day she will find out the truth, but that day is not today.” Celestia looks up. “Twilight is a very special pony Cadence and I don't want her life ruined because of this. I want her to have a chance, a chance at making real friends who will not hurt her, a chance at learning without being held back, a chance at moving on, at living......” A single tear fell from Celestia's eye. She turned to Cadence. “A chance to be happy, don;t you want that for her as well Cadence?”

Cadence lowered her head even lower sobbing as she fell to her knees.

“Of course I do.... but I don't want her to get hurt again. I wont allow it, I can't!” Cadence sobs echoed throughout the room. “How will I know she'll be safe? How will I know she'll be okay?!” Cadence Screamed.

Celestia lowered her head. “You can't, but I promise I will try my best to ensure that this never happens again” Celestia shed anther single tear.

“How! How can you promise that! You promised Shining that she would be safe here! That she would learn and grow, that the school would help her, teach her!” Cadence looked towards Celestia with a burning hatred in her eyes. “But you lied...... She didn't learn she suffered, she didn't grow she shrunk, all that Goddess forsaken school has done is broken her.... and it's all your fault.”

Celestia looked shocked. Was Cadence really blaming her?

“School for gifted unicorns you mean school for bucking monsters!” Cadence boomed. “You let them in Celestia! If it wasn't for you Twi- Twilight would be fine. This would have never happened.....” Hatred burned in Cadences heart.

“As I seem to recall Cadence, It was you who told Twilight to go play with those 'Monsters'” Celestia’s face became hard as stone.

Cadences eyes widened. Before fresh tears began to appear.

“I did.... didn't I?” Cadences anger subsided and began to form cracks in her heart and that is when her true sorrow grew.

“Cadence? I don't blame you, no-pony does. You wanted for Twilight what I want happiness, but letting her remember this will only bring her pain, it will hold her back for the rest of her life. She needs to forget the past so she can have a future do you understand?” Celestia walked towards Cadence and attempted to lay a hoof on her should as to offer some sort of comfort, but cadence moved and began walking away.

“Yes...... I understand......” Cadence walked away tears following.

“She will want to see you when she wakes up. Shining is with her now” Celestia slowly lowered her hoof.

“I'm glad..... at least some-pony can protect her....tell her I said goodbye....” Cadence exited the throne room leaving behind a concerned Celestia.

“Oh Cadence......” Celestia closed her eyes, as a final tear fell towards the ground.

Cadence walked down the hallway, feeling the weight of her hooves weighing down on her. Cadence was lost. Mind, body and soul, She wandered hallway after hallway oblivious to the world and it's surroundings. When she remembered something. Cadence returned to her room and went underneath her bed pulling out a red box with a ribbon on it. She stared at the box not sure what to do. Should she destroy it? The thing she had bribed Twilight with. The thing she now can't stand the sight of. Cadence lowered her head and breathed deep. No. maybe this could protect Twilight better than she ever could. Cadence slowly began to walk to the infirmary box in hoof. When she arrived she just stared. Stared and the one pony she loved more than anything. Bruised, Battered, Broken. She Slowly walked over towards Twilight seeing the pain in her closed eyes. She opened the box and placed the contents next to Twilight a small donkey plush with spotted pants and a wonky eye, Cadence never had been good a sewing.

She leaned towards Twilight and placed a kiss on her forehead, and whispered

"I Love you Twilight, I'm sorry I failed you but don't worry I won't hurt you ever again.... Goodbye"

She left the box on the table besides the bed with a card that read

'Happy birthday Twilight! Hope you like him I made him myself. Lots of love Cadence'

And with that Cadence was gone.

….......................................................

“Cadence!” “Cadence!” Twilight screamed.

Cadence was still in a state of shock, unconsciously she lunged forward and wrapped her hooves around Twilight sobbing as she whispered.

“I'm sorry.... I'm so so sorry Twilight.” Cadence held on for dear life.

“Cadence what's wrong speak to me!” Twilight's voice screamed, but Cadence only heard silence. Only heard the blood pumping through her ears and heart ripping at the seems.

“I'm so sorry forgive me.....” Cadence clutched tight refusing to let go.
…..................................................................

“Cadence?” Shining's Voice called out to the darkened room as he waited for his eyes to adjust.

The glow of his horn offered very little light. He looked around before he noticed it.

Noticed her.

Cadence sat on her bed. Starting down at the floor. Eyes bright red from the amount of crying she must of endured.

“Cadence?” He asked again stepping closer to the bed. The closer he got, the more of Cadence he could see, he could feel his heart clenching as his eyes glistened.

Cadence was gone. No longer was there a happy smiling mare. Only an empty shell. Happy Cadence had disappeared She had been erased.

“Cadence?” He whispered He was shocked when he looked down at the bed and noticed a huge red mark staining the sheets.

“Ca- dence?........! His voice faulted. Cadence turned towards Shining, her magical aura gripping a broken shard of glass lodged in her hoof.

“I'm sorry” She spoke. “Cadence!” Was the last thing she heard before everything went black.

Trapped In A Nightmare, I Can't Escape From.

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Cadence awoke to the sound of voices, muffled and distorted. She slowly opened her eyes but her vision was blurred all she could see was what appeared to be the outline of two ponies. Who they were she could not tell, everything blurred and grey. She tried moving her body to find she couldn't. She tried again to no avail. So she just laid there.

She could hear faint voices so she tried to focus, focus on anything but the pounding in her head. She calmed herself as the voices became more and more clear. She recognised one as Dr Reetro. The other she couldn't quite place.

“Will she be okay?” Mysterious Voice.

“I believe so yes...” Reetro answered rather nonchalantly.

“You Believe so or you know so?” The Mysterious pony raised his voice a tad higher but still Cadence couldn't recognise the voice.

“Physically yes. She will make a full recovery. Emotionally.... I am unsure” Reetro answered solemnly.

“Look Reetro, I am tired of this. You were appointed to look after Cadence because you are the best doctor around. You know her better than any pony, even Celestia, I thought you would have made more progress than this?” The pony raised his voice a little higher.

“Forgive me Capitan Armour, I am trying my best.” Reetro's voice still as calm as ever.

Capitan? So it must be Shining here huh, Cadence thought.

Why can't I see him. “Because you can't face him, you can't face what he'll say.” A voice resonated in the back of her mind.

Why can't I hear 'his' voice. “Because he's not the Shining who's all goofy and playful anymore. He's Capitan, he has to lead ponies. Protect them. Protect Twilight” The voice leered.

Cadence closed her eyes and breathed deep. She had broken him. The once kind colt she'd met that morning with a goofy smile and cheerful personality was gone. No longer was he 'Shining' the laughing bubbly colt who wanted to impress her. Now he was just 'Capitan Armour' a soldier who had been pushed to the limit. A tear fell through Cadences closed eyes.

Why can't I just die “Because you caused this, and all debts must be paid Cadence. Your debt is suffering.” The voice dripping thick with venom. Cadence breathed deep.

“Well your best isn't good enough Reetro!” Shining boomed. “I have had it up to bucking here with this nonsense. A year! A whole bucking year you've had to help her, with no success!. She tried to bucking kill herself last night, and you've done buck all!” Cadence heard the sound of smashing glass and metal being flung about. All this anger Shining had was because of her, because of what she'd done to Twilight, because of what she'd done to herself.

“I'm so sorry Shining” Cadence tried to say but her voice failed her all she would do was listen.

“I understand your anger Capitan but please calm down, this isn't helping Cadence” Reetro pleaded.

Cadence head Shining begin to cry softly. She wanted to hug him, tell she was sorry but she couldn't move. She was useless. Cadence opened her eyes and they began to clear a bit, she saw Shining leaned over a desk, head in his hooves sobbing. Cadence couldn't stand it. Reetro then walked over and softly placed a hoof on Shining's shoulder.

“I can't- I won't-” Shining choked on his words. “You have to help her Reetro. she could have died and I couldn't stop it. It's bad enough that Twi-” Shining breathed a heavy breath and Cadence flinched at the mention of Twilight's name. “But not Cadence as well. Please. Please! Save her!” He started to bawl.

“I am doing my best Shinning, I am going to monitor her here from now on. The body is easily fixed, the mind is not. She has to recover from this herself. All we can do is support her” Reetro stayed true to his professional self.

“How? How can we support her if she won't let anypony in!” Shining pounded the desk. “I should of- I could of- I should of been a better friend” Shining's eyes were pouring now.

“You been an amazing friend” Cadence tried to say again but failed.

“You have been a good friend Shining” Reetro stated. 'Thank you Reetro' Cadence thought.

“No-” Shining raised his head. “I haven’t. I've let her down. All this time I wanted to tell her. Tell her that I didn't Blame her for what happened to Twilight, but I couldn't. I left her to suffer. Let her blame herself and now she's dying, because I was a coward. She wanted Twilight to be happy. Make friends. She found her. Cuddled her. Protected her, and- and where was I?” Shining picked up the desk and threw it through a window. The glass shattering into a million pieces just like him.

“I'm sorry Cadence” He lowered his head in pain. “No I'm sorry” Cadence tried to say.

“I should have talked to you. Comforted you. I should- I should have helped you, but I didn't and now your like this and it's my fault. I did this.” He cried. “No I did” Cadence tried to speak, failing.

“I should have helped you, but I was angry. Not at you. Not at Celestia. Not even at the foals.” Shining fell on his haunches. “I was angry at myself, that I let it happen. So I pushed myself to become stronger, braver, better so it would never happen again.” He turned to Cadence and she froze. “But I in doing so I let you suffer. I left you to die” He looked down again not noticing she was awake. Shining stood up and began walking towards the door.

“Shining where are you going?!” Reetro pleaded.

“I still have a job to do Reetro, but I won't let her down. Not ever again.” He turned to look back at Reetro. “Find me when she wakes up” He turned and left. Cadence tried to scream. To shout, anything. Anything to bring him back but he was gone.

Cadence turned to Reetro who took of his glasses and sat down on a nearby chair rubbing his eyes.

“Oh Cadance if only you knew just how much you mean to every pony.” He said with a tint of pain in his voice. “Then maybe, you wouldn't be lying here right now” He stood up and began walking towards Cadence resting a hoof on her head. “Please Cadence” He whispered. “Please don't give up” A tear fell from his eye hitting Cadences muzzle. Cadence closed her eyes and breathed deep. 'I won't give up' she thought before sleep overcame her.

….....................................................................

It was spring. The sun was shining, flowers where blooming, birds where chirping an all that. Cadence still confined to the hospital bed started emptily out the window. It had been six months. Six months, since the event. Six months since she tried to kill herself. Things were getting better slowly but surely. She was recovering. The past six months were difficult to say the least. Reetro came in everyday to make sure she was sedated enough not to try anything. Spark came in everyday to make sure she ate. Celestia every week to make sure she was okay, and Reaper popped in once or twice a month to check up on her. Cadence thought, long and hard about them. The ponies who were doing everything they could just to save her, help her. Ponies that were trying hard to protect her from herself. She was thankful she was, but the only pony. The only pony not here was the one she wanted to see the most. “Twilight” Cadence sighed.

“You miss her huh?” Cadence jumped and looked towards the door. There in all his glory was non other than Shining Armour. 'Of course' Cadence thought. Ever since the day Shining broke down he'd been coming to see Cadence three times a day, before, in-between and after his duties. It was awkward to say the least. In the beginning, Shining would come and Cadence would pretend to be asleep, he would just sit there and wait, sometimes an hour, sometimes two, sometimes he'd fall asleep right next to her. After the first week Shining asked “How long are you going to ignore me cadence?” and Cadence knew the game was up. She had to face him sooner or later she knew that. She turned to face him, expecting to see anger in his eyes, pity, hatred everything negative, but surprisingly she was met with the same goofy smile she'd grown to love and hate over the years. They talked, and talked and talked, and Cadence didn't feel a burning hatred for herself after it, no windows smashed, no yelling. They talked and it was nice. Nice to have a friend back, to have him back.

Shining would come. He would talk. He would smile. Cadence would talk, and smile. It became easier to face each day. They talked about Twilight. Very rarely, Cadence still couldn't face her. Shining knew this, but still he tried. He hoped one day he'd see Cadence as Cadence again. So he came again and again, not leaving her side, ever again.

“That obvious huh?” Cadence smiled.

“Very. You talk in your sleep you know?” Shining took off his helmet and and headed towards the chair next to her bed.

“No I don't” Cadence looked towards him glaring.

“You do. You say her name and mine surprisingly” He smirked. That same smirk that filled Cadence with hope.

“Oh really?” Cadence raised an eyebrow.

“Yeh it's kind of cute to be honest” Shining laughed.

“Oh shut up” Cadence joined in.

“I'm making a coffee do you want one?” Shining stood up and walked toward the coffee machine at the end of the room.

“Sure white- Cadence stared before being interrupted.

“Three sugars I know.” Shining waved a dismissive hoof at her.

“Smart ass” Cadence whispered. Shining made the coffee and levitated one over to cadence.

“I passed by her room today.” Shining stated as Cadence took the mug.

“Really what does it look like?” Cadence stared out the window looking at nothing in particular.

“Really nerdy” Shining said which earned him a punch in the arm.

“Ouch!” He faked a pained expression.

“Don't be mean” Cadence laughed.

“Amazing to be honest. I've been in there, wall to wall bookcases. I swear she must sleep on books or something cause I’ve never seen a bed” He laughed as well.

“She probably doesn't. You know what she's like, always up or night reading” Cadence smiled.

“Yeh. Not good for her health if you ask me” Shining smirked.

“And being Capitan of the royal guard is?” Cadence turned towards him.

“Hey pays well and I get to meet some interesting ponies” He smiled that smile.

“Well it pays well for her she learns. The amount she's learned I bet she could wipe the floor with you” Cadence laughed.

“Yeh your probably right.” They both turned towards the window admiring the sunset.

“She asked for you again today.” Shining said calmly.

Cadence sucked in a breath and her mug wobbled but Shining steadied her.

“You okay?” He asked concerned.

“Yeh. Just thinking.” Cadence lowered her mug.

“About what?” Shining scooted closer.

“Nothing, everything.” Cadence dead panned.

“She loves her doll by the way.” Shining glanced towards the window. Cadence smiled.

“She named him Mr Smarty Pants” He smiled. Cadence laughed.

“That's Twilight for you” Cadence looked at shining.

“Yeh well I thought she'd be a bit more imaginative” He smiled.

“Well she is only seven years old what do you expect. Besides I like it.” Cadence looked away.

“I do too. She hasn't stopped playing with him since you gave her it” He smiled bigger.

“The last time I saw her.” Cadence frowned.

Shining ears fell and he scooted closer and held her hoof.

“She misses you ya know.” Cadence stared out the window. “She wanted to come see you but I told her you were busy.” Cadences ears fell as well. “Her birthday’s in two months what are you gonna get her?” Shining changed the subject trying to lighten to mood.

“Haven’t thought about it. Maybe a book?” She smiled.

“Really? Goddess knows she has plenty of those, too many to be honest, think harder” He chuckled.

“What would you suggest? It's not like I know her anymore” She tilted her head slightly towards Shining. His ears fell down and she removed her hoof form his.

“I dunno maybe you could paint her something, she loves your paintings” He smiled.

“Maybe” Cadence stared off into the distance. Shining grabbed her hoof again. She turned to look as him in the eyes.

“Cadence?” He squeezed her hoof. “Will you go see her?” He pleaded.

She turned away. “Not today” She looked at the sunset.

“Someday?” He asked in a quiet voice.

“Someday” She smiled. Someday.

Helplessly Praying, The Light Isn't Fading.

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Fear. Fear is a terrifying emotion. It holds you down. Holds you back. Stops you from ever taking risks. Stops you from ever trying. Stops you from living. Fear is a horrible emotion. Fear is the enemy.

But.

Sometimes fear is an ally. Sometimes fear gives you that little push. That little push we all need. When your scared of failing, fear stops you from trying. If you don't try, you can't fail. Simple. But fear can also make you try. Because the only thing stronger than fear is Regret.

And right now, as she walked down the halls of Canterlot Castle. Fear and regret. Were the only things keeping Cadence moving. Regret that she hadn't seen Twilight in nearly a year. Fear that if she didn't she'd lose her forever.

Cadance was slowly making her way towards the library tower. Towards Twilight.

It had been a hard couple of months. Cadance was better. That much was true. Through not without great effort. She had only just been released a week ago. Reetro had finally thought she was ready. Ready to face the world once again. Reetro had insisted on keeping Cadance on medication, probably due to having a panic attack when she tried to leave the hospital room.

The last six days were 'difficult' to say the least. Celestia had made it mandatory that Cadance have an escort wherever she went. The last thing she wanted was to make Cadance feel like a prisoner but she had no choice. She couldn't risk nearly losing her niece again.

Cadance was grateful and reluctant at the same time. She was grateful that Celestia made it only Spark, Shining, or Reaper that escorted her. On the rare chance they were not available she would sit in the hospital room with Reetro. On the rarer chance that she couldn't she would stay with Celestia. She was grateful for the help and support, but reluctant to take it.

There were still problems. There would always be problems. Sometimes the anxiety would get the best of her and she'd lock herself away in her room for a few hours and wait to be sedated by Reetro. Sometimes she'd wake up screaming in the middle of the night, only to be restrained by Spark or Reaper, and sometimes she'd just break down and cry, only for Shining to come and hold her.

Cadance loved and hated every moment.

She loved her friends and family but she hated being so weak.

And that heart..... Oh the heart.

Cadence didn't notice it right away, but when she did.......

The once shining pure glass heart that adorned her flank now had a giant crack running down the middle, almost like a cut, stained blood red. Every time she looked at it she remembered. Remembered that year, that month, that week 'that day' she hated the sight of it, a curse to constantly remind her.

That she was broken.

….............................................................................

Celestia had called the courts wizard Nebula Starscream, to investigate this phenomenon and to her surprise found results.

“I understand Your highness but I must ask again whose Cutie mark has changed?” Nebula questioned.

“It is classified information Nebula. Have you results on the subject or not?” Celestia warned.

“Forgive me your highness, I only asked because I’ve found quite a bit of information, I just need to know under what category this falls under.” Nebula stated.

“Category?” Celestia questioned.

“Yes, you see there are quite a lot of reasons that a pony's Cuite mark could change. Ranging from Involvement with dark magic, to loosing the ability to interact with there true passion anymore. There are many reasons a pony could lose their Cutie mark but it would take a substantial amount of force to cause it to happen.” Nebula explained.

“I see. Well what if the pony in question suffered a large amount of emotional damage that made them stop believing in their purpose anymore, or that they no longer felt that they deserved it anymore” Celestia tried to word it carefully as to not reveal Cadance's identity.

“Then that would fall into the sufferment category. When a pony truly no longer believes that their purpose doesn't matters anymore or that their purpose is no longer true their Cuite Mark changes to adapt. For example if a pony loves to run but lost their legs then they can no longer do what they were destined to. So their Cuite mark would change. They can no longer do what they love so their Cuite Mark alters like them.” Nebula seemed confused.

“I understand. But... Say a pony whose Mark represented Love.... Had their heart broken, would that fall into the sufferment category as well?” Celestia didn't want to reveal too much but she couldn't watch Cadance suffer anymore.

“Ah I see. Well yes they would. If a pony who believes in Love, has their heart broken, then they no longer believe in love, therefore they're entire meaning is changed. But again I must state, that some pony must have had their heart broken very badly for there entire purpose to be altered.” Nebula seemed worried.

“Indeed. I ask because I must know if there is a way to reverse the effects. To make a pony believe in love again.” Celestia hoped for a helpful answer.

“It is difficult to say your highness. There are a lot of recorded cases of Cuite Marks changing into something else, but very few of them changing back.” Nebula lowered his head.

“None?” Celestia felt pained.

“It depends. Dark magic cases are the most common to be reversed because of simply removing the interfering effects that caused it. While sufferment can..... vary. It's hard to say. If this pony truly suffered a horrible act that caused them to completely renounce their passion for Love. Then it would take a miracle to reverse those effects.” Nebula stated bitterly.

“I see.” Celestia lowered her head and thought of Cadance.

“I could try to look into it some more if you wish your Highness?” Nebula said in a lighter tone.

“Please do and thank you Nebula” Celestia smiled a broken smile.

Nebula turned and walked out of the throne room. Celestia sighed and continued her work.

…......................................................................

Cadance stared at her Cuite mark. Just stood and stared. Until a voice interrupted her thoughts.

“I don't think it looks that bad.....” Cadance jumped. It was Shining.

“Thanks... but we both know that isn't true.” Cadance looked back at her mark.

Shining frowned. A light purple aura began to surround his horn, as well and Cadance's flank, before it suddenly changed back into her old Cutie mark. Cadance sighed.

“Better?” Shining asked.

“No.... Look I know you mean well Shining but... it feels like I'm wearing a mask. I'm tired of hiding, but I can't stand the sight of it anymore. Looking at this... just feels like a lie.” Cadance closed her eyes.

“Sorry.” Shining lowered his head.

“Don't be.” Cadance smiled. “But could you please get me a cover for this please? I don't want to look at it anymore” Cadance breathed deep.

The medication was stifling. Reetro had insisted on a high dosage which left Cadance feeling dizzy and disorientated most of the time. She found that her magic was getting weaker. She could only teleport a few feet, and objects shaked when she levitated them. She hated it. Her mind was clouded, and she hated it. Even summoning an object a couple rooms away was difficult.

“Sure.” Shining's horn charged again, as he summoned a throw coat for Cadance. He gently placed it on her. “So where do you want to go today?” Shining asked.

“I have a present I need to pick up.” Cadance smiled.

….........................................................................

Cadance and Spark were out in the gardens. heading towards the royal stables. Where Fire Craft the royal blacksmith resided.

“Are you sure about this Princess? It's a very nice idea but.......” Spark faulted.

“Yes I am sure Spark, With Shining becoming commander, Celestia being overwhelmed with work, and me being in the hospital She's been alone for a long time now. I don't want her to be alone anymore.” Cadance stood firm.

“I understand that but.......” Spark seemed conflicted.

“I'm not sure if I'll ever be the same around her again but... I'm going to try. I don't want to hide from her anymore. From what Shining, you and Reaper have told me she's becoming a very strong and abled Mare, She's growing up, and I want to be there to see it.” Cadance stated.

“She has” Spark smiled. “But are you sure? It's not exactly a common thing, and she might be too young to handle it” Spark worried.

“Your right she might be, and this will be quite the challenge, but Twilight is a smart filly, if anypony is going to concur a challenge it will be her” Cadance beamed.

“I understand” Spark conceded.

“Do you know if Fire Craft still has him?” Cadance turned towards Spark.

“I believe so... I've not heard any news of his departure. I must ask though has Celestia agreed to this. I know you do not need her permission but..” Spark was interrupted.

“Yes she has. She agreed that it would be a good idea to give her some company in that lonely tower of hers, under one condition” Cadance's breath hitched.

“Which was?” Sparks interest peaked.

“That I help her train him.” Cadance breathed deep.

“And are you okay with that? You'll have to spend a lot of time with her if you do.” Spark asked worried.

“I am aware, but I want to. I've left her alone for nearly two years. I only saw her three times before I spent eight months in the hospital. I can't do it anymore. As much as the idea of facing her pains me. Staying away from her is worse. I miss her. I miss her laugh, her smile, the way the would get excited when she found a new book, the way the would beg me to read it too her. I miss her too much and it hurts, it hurts me to stay away. It hurts to know she thinks I hate her” Cadance began to cry.

“I understand Princess. Your not alone, we've all been a little different with her since the incident. Just know that we'll support you and help you, both of you.” Spark smiled.

“Thank you spark” Cadance laughed through her tears.

“Ah were here” Spark stated.

They arrived at the royal stables as Cadance and Spark began to wander around. Looking for a certain fire haired coloured pony. Cadance went inside and noticed a lot of well made armour placed on the walls. 'No wonder he's the best' Cadance thought as rumour of his skill were said to be quite legendary throughout the castle.

“Eye Spark, long time no see” Cadance heard a thick voice say just outside the hut.

“Hey Craft. I just wondered if you had a minute to speak?” Spark asked. Cadance began to exit the hut in search of the voice.

“Eye I've always got time for you lass. What can eye help ya with?” Cadance exited the hut to notice a very tall and broad Stallion standing in front of a giant forge. His mane was almost as bright as the fire that burned in front of him, and he was covered in scars galore. She was shocked to see, that that he was missing one of his back legs and a fake one was in it's place instead. He looked up and looked quite shocked to see the Princess at his door. Spark turned and noticed Cadance and turned back to Fire Craft.

“As you can see, the Princess is here to discuss some business with you” Spark said.

“Business? Well this is a surprize. What can ah elp ya with yer highness.” He walked towards Cadance. His leg making a clinking sound with every step.

“I wish to inquire about a baby drake given to you four years ago” Cadance smiled.

….....................................................................

“Are you sure about this?” Shining worried.

“No, but I want to try.” Cadance admitted.

“Okay then, you ready?” Shining asked.

Cadance breathed deep and looked back at the sleeping dragon in the basket on her back. Before turning to the door and nodded.

“Ready” She raised a shaking hoof to the door and knocked three times.

Cadance closed her eyes and breathed shaky breahtes The seconds felt like hours. 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7....

The lock clicked.

The door opened.

Hiding The Shock And The Chill In My Bones.

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Beautiful.

That was the first word that came to Cadance's mind.

She looked down to see a pair of shocked violet orbs staring back at her.

“Cadance?” The voice breathed.

“Happy Birthday Twilight.” Cadance smiled down at the filly.

“Cadance!” Twilight lunged towards her and knocked her to the floor clutching her in a death grip hug, shedding tears of joy. The medication had made her quite weak so her legs simply gave way. Luckily Shining caught the little drake before she hit the ground.

“Were have you been! I've missed you so much!” Twilight bawled.

For the first time in a long time, Cadance felt something other than fear and regret. She felt relief. She was so sure that Twilight would hate her. So sure that she would no longer want to see her ever again, so sure she had forgotten her, but she was wrong. So wrong.

Cadance slowly returned the hug. Shedding tears of joy as well. She held on so tightly. Fearful that she'd lose her if she ever let go, she never wanted to let go again.

“I've missed you too.” She whispers, choking back tears.

Twilight pulls back, a bright smile on her face. Oh, how Cadance has missed that smile.

“I'm so happy to see you, where have you been? Shining says you've been busy.” She tilts her head towards her brother who gives a soft smile. Cadance's smile falters for a spilt second.

“Yeah, I have, but I'm here now.” She smiles. “I came to wish you happy birthday and give you your present.” Twilight jumps up with glee and begins look around.

“Really?! Is it a new book?” She asks excitedly. Cadance smiles warmly. 'Still the same old Twilight' She thinks.

“No, but I'm sure you'll like it. Why don't we head inside and you can show me your new room before you see your present?” Twilight beams.

“Yeah!” She says bouncing off, back inside the tower. Cadance attempts to stand, stuggling on shaky legs.

“I've got you.” Shining says, holding out a hoof to help her up. While holding the baby drake with his magic.

“Thank you Shining.” Cadance says, taking it and offing a weak smile.

“Are you sure you're ready? It's okay if you're not.” She asks worriedly. Cadance just shakes her head.

“I don't think I'll ever be ready, but I can't hide from her anymore. It's not fair.” She breathes.

“Cadance! Shining! Hurry up!” They both hear Twilight yell from inside the room. Cadance offers Shining a weak smile before taking a deep breath and walking through.

….................................................................................

“And this is my collection of ponies through the ages!” Twilight beams, showing Cadance around the room.

“Wow, glad too see that you're still passionate about reading.” Cadance comments, looking at the several bookcases that filled the room, top to bottom. “Have you read all of them?” She asks, Twilight shakes her head.

“No, I'm re-reading Starswirls the bearded: Constellations configurations , at the moment. Celestia got me a telescope last year and I've been studying astrology since. I find it so fascinating!” She beams. 'A whole year huh?' Cadance frowns. 'Don't be surprised Cadance, did you think after two years she wouldn't find something new to learn?' She winces at the thought.

“Cadance, are you okay?” She hears Twilight say. She turns around and looks down to find the filly with a worried look on her face.

“She's fine, just a little tired, royal duties and all that.” She hears Shining chip from the other side of the room. “I gotta say Twilie, this place is even more impressive than last time, even if it looks like a dork lives here.” He says, smiling cheekily.

“You're the dork!” She sticks out her tongue, blowing a raspberry at him. Cadance smiles.

“How bout we have lunch and you can see your present?” Cadance chimes. Twilight turns towards her smiling brightly.

“Yay!” She cheers. Cadance calls for lunch while Shining clears the large table in the centre of the room of books and quill. Twilight bounces towards it happily as Shining puts the basket with the little drake in it on top of the table.

“What is it?” She asks curiously.

“Wait and see.” Shining smiles. Cadance comes back, walking towards the table.

“Well Twilight, do you remember your first day her at the castle?” Cadance smiles.

“You mean my exam? Yeah, why?” Her right ear twitchs.

“Well, do you remember the test that they asked you do? Hatching the dragon egg?” Cadance's smile grows bigger. Twilight's eyes go big and she smiling brightly, nodding her head.

“Yeah, I remember. I hatched the egg and broken the castle roof.” She cringes at the memory.

“Indeed you did.” Cadance chuckles. She goes to grab the blanket from atop the basket, pulling it away with her teeth. “Well, ta-da!” She says, as the blanket flutters to the floor revealing the sleeping drake curled up into a little ball inside.

“Wow! He's so small!” Twilight says in astonishment, barley being able to see over the large table. Cadance smiles and lifts her onto the table, giving her a clearer view.

“He is, and he's yours now.” She smiles, watching as Twilight leans into the basket to watch the sleeping drake.

“He is?” She whispers. “I can keep him?” She looks towards Shining, a bright smile on her face.

“Yeah, Celestia said it was okay, but he's gonna need a lot of training and looking after.” He turn towards Cadance. “And Cadance is going to help you.” He smiles.

“Really?” Twilight turns towards Cadance with the brightest smile.

“Yeah.” Cadance smiles back. “I know you haven't seen me much lately and I want to fix that, and I know you're gonna have your hands full with this little guy. So I'm gonna be around a lot more, okay?” Twilight beams, nodding her head furiously.

“So Twilight?” Shining chips in. “What are you gonna call him?” He smirks. Twilight looks down in the basket, pursing her lips for a moment before replying.

“Spike. His name is Spike.” She smiles.

….................................................................................................

“I'm so sorry, twilight.” The broken sounds of Cadance crying filled the room. She held onto Twilight sobbing into her fur, matting it with tears. Twilight just held on. Let her cry, it was all she could do.

“Why are you sorry Cadance?” Twilight's eyes began filling with tears as well. “It's not your fault this happened.” She choked out. Cadance just shook her head.

“It is, if I wasn't so stupid, if I hadn't been so weak, then I wouldn't have been captured, Shining wouldn't have been hurt.” She said prying herself away from Twilight, forcing herself of the bed. Twilight just shook her head, and followed her. “Don't!” She screamed. Backing up towards the wall. Twilight froze, watching as Cadance fell apart in front of her.

“Don't come near me Twilight, please, just don't.” She begs, the tears continuing to fall.

“Why?” Twilight whispers.

“Because I'll just hurt you.” Cadance looks up towards Twilight, the light gone from her eyes. “Like I hurt everypony else.” She chokes. Cadance closes her eyes, hoping, praying, Twilight leaves. “I can't hurt you, not again.” She feels cold, like there's ice surrounding her heart, suffocating her. The pain unbearable. 'Why can't it just kill me? Please, just let me die.' Her mind begs.

“You would never hurt me Cadance.” Twilight takes a few cautious steps towards. Her tears hitting the tile below. Cadance just shakes her head.

“I've failed every pony, I've failed you.” She whispers. “I've hurt so many ponies. So much suffering, because of me. If it wasn't for me, none of this would of happened.” She can her chest tightening, she can't breathe.

“Cadance, stop it. You can't blame yourself for this.” Twilight takes a few more steps. Cadance just shakes her head more.

“All I wanted was to protect you, but I couldn't even do that. I failed you. Let you down. Wallowed in my failures and got myself captured.” She chokes. “If I wasn't so fucking pathet-” She cries before being interrupted.

“Cadance!” Twilight screams. Cadance opens her eyes in shock and looks up to meet the pained look in Twilight's eyes.

“I remember Cadance, I remember everything.” Twilight chokes out, and just like that, Cadance feels her heart shatter all over again.

They Took You Away On A Table. (NSFW.)

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“Do you think he'll like it?” Twilight asks, levitating a small red box towards the table in the centre of her room.

“I'm sure he'll love it, you're the one that made it after all.” Cadance yells from across the room, currently rummaging through a cupboard in search of some ribbon.

“Technically Fire Craft made it.” Twilight sits down on the chair with a glum expression on her face.

“Yeah, but you're the one that enchanted it and picked the colours.” Cadance smiles, pulling some yellow ribbon free from the top shelf of the cupboard with a triumph smile and begins walking towards Twilight.

“I guess, I just wish I could of made the locket as well.” Twilight lays her head on the table and huffs. Cadance walks behind her wrapping her up in ribbon and begins tickling her with it.

“Well maybe you can ask Fire Craft if he can teach you.” She chuckles, watching Twilight contort with laughter.

“Cadance stop!” Twilight begs, between chuckles. “You know I don't have time for that!” She giggles.

“Ah yes, who could forget the ever busy schedule of protege Twilight Sparkle, master of magic, ruler of the stars, trainer of dragons.” She smiles, throwing Twilight in the air with her magic.

“Cadance! Put me down!” She laughs.

“Okay, fine.” She slowly lowers her back on the chair. “We should get going soon, we don't want to miss Shining's birthday dinner do we?” She asks, Twilight shakes her head. “Care to do the honours?” She offers the yellow ribbon towards Twilight. Twilight's horn engulfs in a purple aura as she wraps the ribbon around the box, tying it into a prefect bow.

“Perfect.” She smiles.

“Great, let's get going, I'm starved.” Cadance and Twilight's ears perk up, hearing a small yawn near the doorway. She looks over to see Spike in his basket, rousing from his sleep. They both giggle at the sound of his belly rumbling.

“Seems like you're not the only one.” Twilight smiles. “Let's get going.” She says, picking up the box in a purple aura of magic. She trots over towards Spike picking him up and putting him on her back. Cadance smiles, following her out.

…...............................................................................................

The last three years had been difficult, to say the least.

Cadance wasn't sure if she could do it. Return things to normal, but somehow she was managing.

There were still struggles. Some days were to much. She had to leave early, otherwise she knew she'd break down.

Twilight had question. She always had questions.

'Why do you always wear a blanket Cadance?'

'Why do you have to leave so early?'

'Why don't you use your magic that much anymore?'

'Can we have a sleepover, like we used to?” She'd beg.

She'd feel her heart shatter, every time she avoided the questions and left Twilight looking defeated, but she couldn't push herself more than she knew she could handle.

She wanted to, oh goddess did she want to, but sometimes the voices became too much. She still heard them. Whispering, taunting, blaming her for everything. Telling her that she didn't deserve to be near Twilight. That she would only hurt her again. She tried to shut them up. Clench her eyes, take deep breaths, anything. Just willing they would stop.

Some days were always too much. She'd have to cancel plans. Hide in her room. Clench her heart as tears ran down her face, pleading for the voices to go. Days like that were the hardest. When Reeetro had to come and sedate her. When she had to command that Spark and Reaper keep Twilight away from her, lest she see her like this.

But it was like she knew, like she could sense, when Cadance wasn't all there. She'd try to come in only to be met with a locked door. She'd tried to teleport, only to be thrown down the hall by her wards. She'd hear the yelling, asking, begging, pleading with her to open the door, but she'd always leave defeated.

Over the years it began getting easier. Cadance could stand to be with her a little longer, a little more often, and whether it was ignorance at Cadance's unusual behaviour, acceptance when she wanted to be alone, or defeat from always trying to get in and never succeeding. Twilight kept back.

They were still close. They still spent more than half the week together. They had sleepovers once a month. They still spent hours together training Spike.

Cadance couldn't help feeling bittersweet about it. She was so scared. So scared of hurting her again, so scared of her somehow remembering, so terrified of losing control in front of her, that she always kept her at hoof length. Close, but always just out of reach.

Twilight noticed. At first she couldn't place it. Why Cadance twitched every time she hugged her. Why she took a deep breath whenever she asked her do something. How she'd always have a sad smile when she accepted, she'd thought it was because of her. That she was doing something wrong. She'd read hundred of books on physiology to figure it out, but every book told her something different. She'd asked Shining, Reeetro, Spark, Reaper, even Celestia herself and they all gave her the same answers. 'She's just tired, being a princess can be exhausting.' At first that sufficed, but as she got older, she learned that Celestia had just as many duties if not more than Cadance and she always seemed to be fine. It didn't add up.

'I have had a lot longer practice than Cadance has.' Celestia had said with a sad smile.'She's not quite use to it as I am, give her some time.' She offered a hopeful look.

And time she gave. Slowly but surely, Cadance came back. Bit by bit, step by step, but there was always a painful look in her eyes. Like she wanted to say something, like she wanted Twilight to ask her if she was okay, but would she tell her if she did? She wasn't sure. So she stayed quiet, hoping that maybe, one day, she would come to her.

….............................................................................................................

It was the eve of Twilight's fourteenth birthday when it happened. When the thin wall of friendship she was trying to hold, was shattered to Cadance forever.

She'd prepared herself all week for it. A sleepover, like they used to, with books, cakes, tea, presents. She she'd snuck into Twilights room at about seven, to hide everything in the closet. She'd told Twilight that she was going to come around about eight to wish her happy birthday. She wanted to surprise her. She would be with Celestia until half past. Plenty of time. She has just finished hiding the presents when she heard the lock click.

'Buck!' She thought as she look at the clock. 7:15. 'She must of finished early!' She thinks quickly diving into the cupboard, careful not to knock anything over. She heard the faint sound of hooves walking alone the tiled floor and voices began speaking.

“Miss Sparkle, Princess Celestia, has informed me that you'd be spending the evening alone, so I've come to collect Sir Spike for you this evening.' She heard the distinct voice of Reaper.

“Oh! Yes, that would be wonderful Reaper, thank you.” She hears the sound of a basket being lifted off the floor. “I'll see you tomorrow Spike.” Twilight smiles. Giving the sleepy drake a kiss on the forehead. “And Reaper, how many times do I have to say it, it's just Twilight.” She smiles towards the stallion.

“At least once more, Miss Sparkle.” Cadance hears both of them let out a small chuckle. She hears the door close and hooves walking away towards the other end of the room.

'I guess it couldn't hurt to surprise her now.' Cadance thinks, as she hears the sounds of a bed creaking. 'She must be tired.' Cadance pauses just shy of opening the door. 'She's probably gone for a nap, thank goddess Shining convinced her to get a proper bed instead of that couch she was sleeping on.' She smiles. 'I'll just sneak out and come back later.' She presses her ear up against the door, waiting to hear the soft snoring sounds so she can slip away.

“Oh...” Cadance freezes for a second. Not sure whether or not was she just heard was correct.

“Unggh...” Cadance erupts into a giant blush, her fur reddening from the bottom of her neck to the tips of her ears. She'd spent many nights alone and knew exactly what those sounds were.

'Of all the times, she does this now!' Her mind screams. 'She's fourteen tomorrow, what do you expect? I'm sure she's collected quite a few romance novels over the years, and I bet the restricted section in the library has a few hidden gems.' The voice taunts.

She hears the soft moans of Twilight through the door, her heart rate increasing at the sounds. Her overwhelming curiosity gets the better of her as she reaches a hoof towards the closet handle. 'I can't be here, this is an invasion of privacy, maybe I can just sneak out.' She cracks the door open, her eyes go wide and her breathing stops with the sight that greets her.

Twilight, laid face first into her pillows, her flank high in the air, her marehood, glistening with arousal as she rubs it with a hoof, on display for Cadance's eyes, Cadance watches through the crack of the door, her heart rate skyrocketing, at the sight of it, her throat going dry.

“Ca-” She hears Twilight breathe through laboured breaths, her ears twitching, furiously. 'I need to leave. I shouldn't be watching this.' She thinks, clenching her eyes shut, trying to force the image out of her mind.

“Ca-dance.........” Cadance felt her entire world shatter. 'What?!' Her mind screams. Her eyes fling wide open, as the world stops turning.

“Cadance......” She hears Twilight whispers louder as she continues to rub herself, growing ever more wet, at the fantasy running through her mind.

'No, no.' Cadance clenches her eyes shut. 'She can't be, she can't be thinking about me. She can't!' Her mind screams.

“Cadance....” Twilight begins to moan louder, twisting and contorting on her bed as she rubs herself faster, harder.

'Twilight, stop, please.' She begs, her heart pounding in her ears. She shifts uncomfortably, and freezes at the feeling of wetness between her haunches.

“No....” She says, barley audible, to the empty closet. Her mind racing with a million thoughts.

“Cadance, I'm- I'm gonna come.” Cadance's head jerks upwards, her eyes immediately drawn towards the beautiful mare, currently writhing around of her bed. Pleasuring herself to the thought of her.

“Cadance!” Twilight yells, arching up towards the roof. “I'm cumming!” She screams. Cadance watches in fear, and arousal as a small amount of clear liquid squirts out of Twilights marehood, coating her bedsheets.

She sits, frozen, tears streaming down her face. She watches as Twilight releases a satisfied huff as she stands up and heads off towards the bathroom to the other end of the room. The door closes and the lock clicks, as the sound of rushing water is heard, but Cadance barley registers it. All she can hear is the pounding in her ears. She begins hyperventilating, she can't understand. It's too much, she can't breathe.

She bolts out of the closet, making a bee-line for the door. Her magic aura unlocking and opening it just in time for her to bolt down the hallway. She runs, anywhere. Anywhere, away from her.

'Well, well, well, look at little miss filthy getting wet from watching Twilight masturbate.' The voice taunts.

“Shut up.” Cadance yells. She doesn't register, running past guards and maid with worried expressions on their faces.

'Bet you felt really good when she called out your name didn't you?' The voice chuckles menacingly.
“Shut up!” She screams louder, rounding a corner, blinded by tears. She doesn't notice running past Spark, or her cries, asking her to stop.

'You're just as bad as those foals that raped her aren't you!?' The voice screams at her.

“Shut! Up!” Cadance releases a blood curdling scream, before the pain becomes too much and she passes out just shy of a distraught looking Shining Armour.

…...............................................................................

Cadance jerks awakes, hyperventilating. She thrashes about, feeling that her hooves are tied, begins to panic more. She screams before she feels the sharp sting of something being pressed into her neck. Her eyes become unfocused as she's slowly lowered back towards the bed. Somepony softly placing her head on a pillow.

“Reeetro what's going on, what's happening to her!” She hears the sound of Reaper.

“I don't know. We should just let her rest. I'll inform Princess Celestia, you should inform Twilight that Cadance won't be coming this evening.” Her eyes go wide at the mention of Twilight. Despite the drowsiness, she feels like her heart is about to break.

“I will, take care of her Reeetro.” She hears Reaper walk away, her mind begins panicking. The eyes streaming at the memoires.

“I can't-” She tried to breathe but she can't. “She shouldn't have-” She begins choking.

“Cadance! Cadance stay with me!” She watches as Reeetro, shines a light into her eyes, watching the rapid dialation.

“It's- It's my fault- She- She-” Cadance feels the final thread being cut, as darkness consumes her once again.

…...........................................................................

Twilight is confused. She's sure that Cadance said eight, and she's normally never late.

She looks towards the clock in her room, taking note of the time. Five minutes to nine.

'Maybe she got hold up? Yeah, that must be it.” Twilight thinks, trying to calm her nerves but it offers little help. 'I'm sure she'll get here soon.' She thinks. 'I'll just wait.' She breathes.

So she waits, and waits, and waits some more.

The clock strikes nine and Cadance still isn't here. 'What if something's happened?' She begins to panic. Tired of sitting around she stands to go look for Cadance, but just as she opens the door she's greeted by the worried expression of Solo Reaper.

“Reaper!” She asks, slightly worried. “Do you know were Cadance is?” She feels a sinking feel begin forming in her gut.

“She's had to be pulled away suddenly.” She says, offering her a weak smile. “She told me to tell you that she's sorry she couldn't come see you tonight, but she'll be here tomorrow to wish you happy birthday.” He gives her a pained expression.

Twilight just nods, slowly closing the door. She walks towards her bed, tired from the day. She slips under the covers, pulling Mr Smarty Pants out from under her pillow and clutching him close.

“It's okay.” She whispers. “She'll come tomorrow.” She says, tears filling her eyes, as she falls into an uncomfortable sleep.

…....................................................................

But Cadance didn't come the next day, or the next, or the next. In fact, Twilight never saw Cadance for the next four years. She'd asked everypony, Celestia, Shining, Reaper, everypony.

But no pony could give her an answer, only a broken smile that filled her with sorrow.

As the years went by Twilight stopped asking, stopped caring. She felt hurt, betrayed, broken. She threw herself into her studies. Hoping that learning would take the ache away, but it never really did.

She became closed off from the world. She'd lost one of the closest ponies to her and she couldn't help blaming herself.

It was a week after her eighteenth birthday. When she was studying 'The Mare In The Moon' that she got the letter from Celestia. Telling her that we would be supervising the 'Summer Sun Celebration' in Ponyville. She read the letter over and over. Was Celestia trying to get rid of her? Ever since Cadance's disappearance everypony had become so secretive and watchful. She thought it was normal. She'd learned to accept it.

With a sigh, she headed out of her tower towards the carriage stables. Ready to depart to Ponyville.

Spike was excited. He always was.

They boarded the carriage and departed, but Twilight couldn't help feeling alone.

I Pace Back And Forth As You Lay Still.

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“You can't send her away!” The loud shrill of Cadance's royal voice boomed through the throne room.

“Pray tell Cadance, why not?” Celestia huffed at her nieces behaviour. Slowly working through a stack of papers, she assumed where not going to get done anytime soon.

“Because it's- it's not right!” Cadance seethes. “You have, 'hic' no idea what kind- kind of challenges she's gonna, f- face out there! Have you already forgotten wh-what happened to her!” Cadance staggers towards the throne where Celestia is perched, barley being able to stand up right.

“If it bothers you Cadance, she still has a week before she departs. Why not come back with a sober presentation and a better argument, and try to convince me tomorrow?” Celestia forces out, irritated at her nieces distasteful, but now usual behaviour.

“You- You, still wouldn't listen.” Cadance mumbles, rubbing her eyes, that had long since turned red from years of crying and sleep deprivation.

“You're right Cadance, I wouldn't.” Celestia sighs, finally relenting to putting her quill and parchment down in favour of gazing at her clearly inebriated niece.

“I know that this upsets you Cadance, but quiet frankly, I don't care anymore.” She fixes her niece with a stern gaze, who returns it just as strongly.

“Twilight has grown very secluded, that I fear for her. She rarely eats, barley sleeps, and despite my many attempts to coerce her out of that seclusion, she has remained there.” Celestia stands up from her throne, slowly walking over to a stumbling Cadance.

“And you think it-it's my fault!?” Cadance hiccups.

“Can you blame me?” Celestia's nostrils flare. “Four years Cadance. Four years she's been asking where you have been. Four years she's been wondering where you disappeared to and I can't bring myself to lie to her anymore.” Celestia stops just in front of Cadance, glaring down at her. Cadance stares up at her in defiance before huffing and looking off towards to side of the room. Celestia sighs, her gaze softening. She gently raises a hoof, placing it on Cadance's shoulder.

“What happened Cadance? Things were going so well. What changed?” Celestia begs. Cadance just clenches her eyes shut, breathing deeply. “Cadance, tell me, please?” Celestia begs, emotion evident in her voice. Cadance just shakes her head, as tears fall from closed eyes. Celestia sighs lifting her hoof off and retreating to her throne.

“Then you leave me no choice Cadance, I don't know what happened between you two, you refuse to tell me and Twilight appears to not know. I thought-I hoped that you would recover. That you could save your friendship with her, but it seems I was mistaken.” Celestia huffs, sitting back into her throne.

“But I cannot let this continue, Twilight needs friends, she's hurting, I can tell, but she refuses to tell me. I can't let her live like this anymore, I won't.” Celestia firmly looks at Cadance, eyes filled with pain.

“If you truly care about her, you will either fix this, or let her go Cadance. She doesn't deserve to be forgotten, you can not claim to care about her when you're partly the reason that she is like this.” Cadance growls. Celestia sighs.

“Cadance?” She begs. Cadance turns her gaze towards Celestia, sadness and sorrow, buried deep in her eyes. “Tell me what happened, and I might reconsider. If you can give me something, anything. That will make me understand why you abandoned her. Anything, that can show me that you can still be there for her. Anything, please.” Celestia pleads. Cadance just huffs, shaking her head.

“I can't, I just- I can't be around her anymore. It's not healthy, for her or myself.” Cadance closes her eyes in despair. Celestia sighs, lifting her quill and parchment back towards herself.

“Then you leave me no choice Cadance, she leaves next week. End of discussion.” Celestia returns her gaze to her paperwork.

Cadance just stands there for a few moments. Eyes burning with anger, pain, remorse. She just shakes her head, as tears fall to the tiles below and turns around, heading towards the door and exiting.

Celestia clutches the parchment, crinkling it in her aura as tears fill her eyes, hearing the closing of the door softly resonate to the empty throne room.

“Cadance.....” She sobs, letting tears fall free, as her niece disappears once again.

….................................................................................................................................

The soft sounds of hooves can be heard, as Cadance makes her way through the gardens. A place that once filled her with hope and warmth, now felt bitter as the cool night's wind rushed through her fur causing her to shiver.

She continued walking, lost to her thoughts, to the numbness that had replaced her heart. In one week Twilight will be gone. Cadance felt relief and sorrow at the thought.

Maybe Celestia was right?

Ever since she'd caught Twilight, she'd found that she couldn't muster the strength to face her any more. Not without guilt settling into her heart. As first she blamed it on spending too much time with her, that maybe if she backed away, removed herself from her life a little bit. That things would calm down, that she could look at her like she had always done. With love and friendship.

But as the days, weeks, months went by. She realised that she could no longer do so. The thought of Twilight being sexually attracted to her, had made her more happy than she had been in years.

But it was wrong, so wrong. Twilight shouldn't be attracted to her, she was just a filly despite how mature she was. She needed someone her own age. Someone who could be there for her. Someone who could save her. That wasn't Cadance.

Cadance knew she could never be what Twilight needed. She could never protect her, help her, save her, when she'd need her most. How could she? When she couldn't even save herself. So she stayed away.

She made excuses, she always did. Maybe if she stayed away, then Twilight would return to normal, find normal ponies to spend her time with. Grow up, without Cadance corrupting her. It didn't go unnoticed. Twilight asked for her. Day after day, week after week. Killing Cadance to stay away, but she knew she couldn't risk dragging her further down a dark path. Knew that one day she would lose control and reveal everything to Twilight, she couldn't do that. She wouldn't.

She convinced herself, that staying away from Twilight was the best thing to do, but as the years went past, she realised that she was just a coward.

The sight of Twilight had been burned into her memory, replayed again and again, causing her to jerk awake from her sleep in cold sweats and uncomfortable arousal. She realised that she felt the same and it filled her with guilt and shame.

Cadance wanted ever so badly to give in and return all the love that Twilight had given her, all the patience, all the purity, but she knew she couldn't. She was far too damaged, far too afraid. If she gave in, she'd had to tell Twilight everything, but she couldn't. She wouldn't ruin her life anymore than she already has.

Cadance retraced to the shadows, where she remained.

Everypony was confused, as expected. Reeetro tried to change her medication, telling her that maybe it was just the anxiety but she refused. She knew medication wouldn't help.

Spark and Reaper had tried everything to get her to talk but she refused, the less they knew, the better.

Celestia was hurt, she could see the pain and torment in her eyes, but Cadance knew if she told her. That she would have just sent her away even quicker. She wanted Twilight to remain the same, and she wouldn't if she knew.

But Twilight hadn't stayed the same, she'd been hurt, abandoned, without any reason why. Shining had come to her angry, in tears, begging her to tell him. Pleading with her to try again, but she couldn't. She watched the tears fall from his eyes, the look of betrayal on his face, and refused. He'd been angry. He still was.

He'd come round every now and then, to tell her what Twilight was doing, in the hopes to get her to return. He'd fill her with guilt, talking about what a fine mare his sister was turning into, and how she wasn't able to see it. Eventually he stopped coming, Twilight stopped asking about her and Celestia stopped pressing for answers.

Eventually, she had been forgotten again.

She filled her empty days with drinking and sorrow. Refusing to engage with anypony, removing herself from the light. She'd lost the small amount of love she had left, replaced with a cold ache. She'd lost the will to live, and so, she left.

Walking back into the castle, she returned to her chambers, noting the guards to leave with worried expressions on their faces. She climbed into her bed, tears pouring from her eyes as she fell into an uncomfortable sleep once again. Her last thoughts of the hurt expression, in a pair of violet eyes.

….........................................................................................................................

“My faithful student, are you sure that this is what you wish?” Celestia looked at her student with a warm smile. Confirming if this is what her student truly wished. Twilight nodded back slowly.

“I'm sure princess, I want to stay here with my new friends.” She smiles.

“If that is what you wish, then it is yours.” Celestia says. Leaning down to give her student a hug. She let's go, watching as Twilight leaves with her new friends. Celestia smiles, before returning to her chariot, departing to Canterlot.

She arrives back at the castle, stretching her wings from the long journey. She proceeds to head towards her chambers to retire for the day.

“Hey auntie! How was the Summer Sun Celebration!” She hears the sound of a familiar voice. She lifts her head, following the voices owner.

“Wonderful Cadance, Twilight has truly made some wonderful friends.” She offers her a warm smile.

“I'm glad, I know I wasn't there for her, but I'm sure these new ponies will be. You look tired, you should get some rest, then you can tell me all about it tomorrow.” She beams. Celestia nods, continuing to walk towards her chamber, she watches as Cadance struts down the hall. She thought that Twilight leaving would be the end of Cadance, but maybe it was the break she needed to finally recover. She sighs heading towards her chamber to rest. Cadance continues to trot down towards her chambers, dismissing the guards to leave. She heads inside, closing the door and locking it.

“A whole week, and she's not even noticed.” Cadance chuckles, as she picks up a mirror and proceeds to grin evilly into it. Her eyes flashing a bright green for a split second. “I guess that's just how replaceable you are.” She chortles with a hint of malice. “Now, let's go see the captain of the royal guard shall we?” She laugh hysterically, placing the mirror back on her vanity as she proceeds to exit the room.

….................................................................................

In darkness, far below the castle walls, a faint sobbing could be heard.

The sight of a smiling pink Alicorn trotting down towards the training ground. Towards a commanding Shining Armour appears plastered on several giant green gems.

“Shining.......no.........” The broken voice of Cadance can be heard echoed through the cave, before turning into a blood curling scream.

…................................................................................

They Pull You In To Feel Your Heartbeat.

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“Cadance, to what do I owe the pleasure.” Shining frowns towards the mare approaching him, taking off his helmet, drenched with sweat.

“I wanted to come talk to you.” Cadance feigns awkwardness.

“Now? After all these years?” He spits not looking convinced.

“Yes. I owe you an explanation.” She says continuing the charade. Shining's ear pricks up, waiting for her to continue.

“I wanted to say I'm sorry. I know I haven't been there for you-” She says before being interrupted.

“Or anypony, really.” Shining says with annoyance, squinting his eyes at her.

“Or anypony.” Cadance sighs. “It's been hard, the last few years, I wasn't sure if I could ever get over my fears, or if I wanted too, but I think I'm ready now, to try at least.” She offers a bashful smile. Shining just squints harder, looking even more unconvinced. Cadance swallows, feeling nervous under the stallions gaze. Shining relents, sighing and looking down towards the ground.

“What fears Cadance? One day, everything was going fine and then I find you crying, passing out in front of me and I don't know what to think.” He looks are her with a pained gaze.

“I thought it was going well, I thought you were getting better. Then you wake up and tell me you can't see Twilight anymore. You can't see anypony anymore. You disappeared Cadance. I know this has been hard on you, but it's been hard on me as well!” He screams, causing Cadance to flinch, tears filling his eyes.

“I know, and I'm sorry.” Cadance pleads. “I thought that if I removed myself from her life, she'd be happier.” She begins to tear up.

“Why?!” Shining bellows. “Why would you think Twilight losing one of her best friends would make her happier!” He screams, causing several trainee guards to look in their direction.

“I don't know.” Cadance huffs in defeat. “I thought, that maybe, if I wasn't around, maybe she wouldn't end up like me.” Shining stares at her angrily.

“Let's be honest Shining, I wasn't well. I'm still not. Twilight needed to be around ponies her age. She's young. She shouldn't be surrounded by somepony who can barley look at her. She needed somepony to be there for her. To give her encouragement, guidance. I couldn't do that for her.” She chokes tears filling her eyes.

“I'm devastated that she's left, that I didn't get to apologise to her, but, maybe, this will be good for her. Hopefully she'll make friends her own age. Hopefully she'll find ponies she can trust, who won't abandon her. I want her to be happy, even if it means letting her go.” She raises a hoof, placing it on Shining's shoulder.

“Now she has the chance, and hopefully, one day. I can be strong enough to apologise to her in pony.” She stares at him, with a hopeful gaze. Shining gazes at her, pain and sorrow evident in his eyes. He sighs, lowering his head in defeat, nodding.

“I hope you can Cadance. I miss her.” He says in a painful voice.

“I miss her too.” She lowers her hoof. “Hey, can we hang out this weekend, like we use to? I think it will both do us some good to try and heal from this, don't you think?” She pleads. Shining lifts his gaze, giving her an exhausted glance, before nodding. Cadance gives him a weak smile before turning around and proceeding to walk away.

Shining shakes the tears out of his eyes before putting his helmet back on.

“Alright colts! Move it!” The mask of Capitan Armour slowly slipping back into place.

…...................................................................................................

Cadance watches from the cave, tears streaming from her eyes. She feels so weak, so powerless. How could no pony know that wasn't her? How could no pony see that she was a fake? Surely Shining and Celestia saw? Surely they weren't that easy to fool? Cadance can only cry at the betrayal filling her heart, before the sound of somepony apparating in cause her to suddenly turn around.

“Well, that was a little bit harder but what do you think? Pretty convincing if I say so myself?” The smirking menacing gaze of a pink Alicorn fills Cadances heart with terror.

“What do you want?” Cadance pleads in a hushed whisper, the tears renewing in her eyes, as the sounds of hooves on stone echo through the murky cave.

“I must say you've done a fine job of destroying all the love around here, but don't worry my precious little princess. I'll make sure that it is all returned.” The figure chuckles, ignoring Cadance's plea. Suddenly Cadance is blinded as the figure becomes shrouded in a field of green magical aura as her true form replaces the pink Alicorn. She opens her eyes slowly, watching in fear and terror at the sight before her.

A large black creature with holes in it's legs, bug like wings, a jagged horn, piercing fangs and thin slits for eyes stares down at her with an amused smirk.

“Oh don't cry my dear, you'll join them soon enough.” The figure hisses.

“Who are you?! What do you want?!” Cadance screams, staring into the cold eyes above her.

“Who am I? Queen Chrysalis.” The figure chuckles. “What do I want, my little pony? Why, to feed of course.” She lifts her head up laughing.

“Feed on what?” Cadance asks horrified.

“Why love of course.” Chrysalis smirks. “It's what we changeling's need to survive. I must admit, I didn't expect to go as far as taking your place, but circumstances change.” She grins and begins circling Cadance.

“My hive have been so desperate for food. I'd heard the stories of a pink Alicorn that represented love and thought she would make the perfect meal for my children.” Chrysalis hisses, causing Cadance to flinch.

“Imagine my disappointment when I arrived and the Princess of love was nothing but a broken, hollowed out shell.” She reaches a hoof out to touch Cadance's cutie mark, only to have her recoil in fear.

“My initial plan was to swoon you, but after observing you for a long time. I realised that nothing could be done to save you.” She begins circle Cadance again.

“Your friends however, they could still be devoured.” She laughs.

“Don't you touch them!” Cadance screams, fresh tears running down her face at the thought of her friends in danger. Chrysalis look down towards her a smirk on her lips.

“I must say, I'm impressed that you still care for them, even after watching two of them already fall for such a blatant lie.” She chuckles, watching as Cadance's head falls towards the ground, choking back sobs.

“It must pain you to watch as the ponies you care about fall so easily into my trap, but emotions have always been the downfall of you ponies.” She cackles. Cadance just shakes her head in despair.

“They've watched so painfully as you declined, that it was so easy to convince them, because the only thing stronger that love, is hope. Hope that one day their bright and smiling princess would return. Although love is far tastier.” She taunts. Cadance just releases a scream.

“Scream all you want. No pony is going to hear you.” She chuckles. “I'm afraid I must get going, I have a date to plan for this weekend.” She laughs as she begins walking away.

“What are you going to do to him!” Cadance's balls from her spot on the floor too weak to stand.

“It's not what I'm going to do.” She chuckles, as green ball of light erupts over her body and she takes on the form of a fake Cadance once again. “But what you are going to do my dear.” She says, stretching out her new wings.

“That poor stallion has not only lost his best friend, but now, his little sister.” She smiles evilly. “I think he could do with a pick me up.” She smirks, shaking her rump at Cadance suggestively.

“Please! Don't hurt him!” Cadance begs.

“Don't worry. I don't plan to hurt him, not yet anyway.” She smiles coldly. “I plan to make sure he falls absolutely head over heals for you, then use his love to build my strength. Then, my children and I will take this kingdom, once and for all.” She lets out a bone chilling laugh that echo's through the empty cave.

Cadance screams, attempting to stand before falling to the ground in defeat.

“Save your strength, you'll need it. Don't worry, my children will make sure you're well fed.” Chrysalis chortles.

“Why- why won't you just kill me?” Cadance chokes out a broken sob.

“Oh my dear, where would the fun in that be? After all, you'll miss the show, and who knows?” Chrysalis chuckles. “You might still prove useful to me.” She smirks before disappearing in a yellow flash.

Cadance screams out in anger and sorrow to the now empty cave, as she smashes her hoof into the stone below. She screams over and over again until her voice turns horse. Hoping and praying that somepony, anypony notices before it's too late.

As the silence draws out and her pleas remain unanswered. She curls up into a ball, continuing to sob. Racked with grief that her friends are going to die, and she is powerless to stop it.

Can't You Hear Me Screaming, "Please Don't Leave Me!"

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The sounds of clinking metal can be heard echoing throughout the castle halls.

Lieutenant Reaper was walking down the seemly long endless hallways that he'd grown to memorise over the years.

It has been a nine days.

Nine days, since Miss Twilight had been sent to Ponyville. Two days, since she had chosen to remain there.

Reaper had been mournful at the loss of Twilight. He'd honestly miss having having her around. She was a ray of light in this otherwise, dreary castle.

He'd watched her grow, change, shape, shift, morph, into a fine and capable young mare.

'Not even a fortnight out into the world and she's already saved it.' He chuckled at the thought.

Yes, truly miss Twilight had become a pony of worth. Not that she hadn't always been special. He'd watched with delight, as the small purple unicorn had grown through the years. Smiling at the ever growing knowledge she'd learnt and the continuous amount of magic she'd mastered.

'Truly a gift' He thought.

When he'd signed up to be a royal guard, not once did he think that he would enjoy babysitting a foal. Part of the reason he became a guard in the first place. He was not a family stallion, nor did he have any desire to be. He was a warrior, plain and simple. Although the castle lacked excitement he found that he enjoyed his job. The peaceful atmosphere has a nice charm to it, but he was always a pony to keep his guard up.

He'd been a guard for three years, just managing to claim the rank of lieutenant, he'd been offered the captains position but he'd turned it down. He wanted to fight, not order other ponies too.

It was during one of his regular rounds that seen it. Watched as a dragon had erupted from one of the castle towers that fateful day. He'd sped into action, prepared for a fight as he ran towards the examination hall. But he failed to find a dragon when he arrived.

Only a small purple pony bouncing around in glee before Celestia. He'd question her highness, who merely explained the situation. He looked down in confusion.

'How could this small filly wield so much power?' He'd thought.

He'd dismissed it as a fluke, but watching Twilight grow, he'd understood just exactly how she'd done it. He'd grown to care for the filly over the years, like most other ponies in the castle. Found her pursuit of knowledge and learning quite endearing.

He'd never felt true sorrow, until the day he found Twilight in the gardens. Beaten and burned, bruised and broken. He couldn't understand it. Didn't want to understand it. He was filled with so much rage and sickness at the thought of another pony doing this kind of deed, other foals in fact.

He watched. As Princess Cadance, a mare he'd learned to respect over the years, a mare filled with so much love and warmth, be reduced to a broken shell. He stand the sight of it. He wanted to say something, wished he could have said something, something to ease this terrible crime, but he was not a stallion of emotional depth.

He was a stallion of action, and so action, was what he took.

He didn't regret it. He still doesn't. Any pony so willing to hurt another, so horridly, didn't deserve mercy. He'd felt no guilt stripping those foals of their magic. He knew they'd get away with it. He knew they'd escape the law. So he made a choice. A choice he does not regret.

He'd prepared himself. Prepared himself for the punishment that was sure to come because of his actions. Prepared to feel the heavy weight of an inhibitor ring placed of his horn, locking his magic forever. Prepared to be locked in irons for the rest of his days. He'd accepted it.

What he hadn't expected was to be knocked unconscious and to wake up in an infirmary bed, with Reeetro explaining to him that he would not be charged. He was shocked to learn that Celestia, Silver and Spark had lied for him to be free. He couldn't understand it.

He'd question Celestia, who had only given him a warm smile.

“But I must be punished your highness, it is what is just.” He'd said firmly.

“I understand Reaper, but your imprisonment is not what I wish.” She'd said softly.

“I don't understand.” He'd shaken his head in confusion.

“Can I be brash for a moment Reaper?” Celestia ask. He nods.

“For the seven years you have served me, you've not let me down once. You have always been loyal, always been faithful, and have never questioned my rule.” She smiles. He nods.

“It is because of that, that I find found myself in potion I never thought I'd be in.” Her smile faltered. He tilts his head in confusion.

“You are a good pony Reaper. You have stood by my decisions and stood by your fellow guards, even when it was obvious that you did not want too. You have always voiced your opinions but never forced them. You have always stood by rule, and for that I see you as a friend.” She says, tears filling her eyes. He nods with a stoic impression on his face.

“You have always cared about ponies, always tried your best, and fought to protect them, and because of that I honestly couldn't live with myself if I'd locked you away because of it.” She chokes out a lone tear. He feels his heart swell up but forces himself to remain stoic.

“What you did was wrong I know that, but what truly sealed my decision was your actions.” She straighten up.

“My actions? Your highness?” He questions.

“You didn't run. You didn't lie and try to cover yourself. You stood there. Admitted your actions, and awaited your punishment like a true solider. You knew you'd end up in jail for life and you'd accepted it, because you knew it was the right thing to do.” She breathes. He nods.

“I don't think I could of done what you had, but don't blame you for it. They would have gotten away with it, I know that for a fact. They would have been forced to leave the school but that would have been it. They would have probably grown into terrible ponies. Hurt countless others before finally being locked away.” Celestia grimaces.

“Your evolvement has been hidden. I have assured loyalty from both Spark and Silver that this will never be brought up again and the foals memories have been taken care of.” She offers a weak smile.

“But why your highness? Why are you protecting me?” He questions, because he can't understand.

“Because you are my friend Reaper.” She simply states. He's taken aback for a second before recovering. “Because you care about Twilight, about Cadance, about Spark, about Shining, about Reeetro, about me. And countless other ponies as well. Because someone with your level and compassion and empathy deserves to be saved, because I know you will do everything in your power to protect the ponies you care about, even things that some of us don't want to do.” She stands up looking confident.

“But....” He trails off, looking towards the ground.

“I know you don't agree with this Reaper, I know you want to do the right thing, but I ask of you, not as ruler, not as a princess, but as a friend. To think about the ponies that care about you. To think about Twilight and Cadance.” She begs. His head shoots up at the mention of the two mares names.

“They will need, now more than ever.” She pleads.

“I-I do not know what help I can offer them.” He admits, painfully.

“Just be there for them. Protect them from danger, from themselves. Can you do that for me?” She pleads. He looks his her begging eyes and nods.

“Of course, your highness.” He says slowly.

“Dismissed soldier.” She says, placing her ruler mask back on.

Reaper nods and walks away.

Reaper cringes at the memory. He still couldn't understand, but maybe that wasn't a bad thing. Part of him was still remorseful that he was never truly punished for his crimes. Of course Spark had been told to give him the grunt shifts for the next couple of years but it never felt enough.

However, over the years he'd grown to accept it. Watching Twilight grow had proven to himself that he'd made the right decision in the end. He got to watch a truly remarkable filly, grow into an even more remarkable mare. He smiled at the thought.

But everything had it's price. He'd still have nightmares about that day, the day he'd found Twilight in the garden, the day he'd watched Cadance break.

Cadance had never been the same, had never truly recovered. She'd slipped into obscurity and Reaper had no idea how to get her out. The many attempts of Reeetro, Spark, Shining and even Celestia had fallen in vain. So what in hay's change did he have of helping her?

He sighed at the thought. Sometimes he wished he was smarter, wished he was more emotional, but he wouldn't be solider if her was. The only thing he could offer was to take extra shifts to guard Cadance's room. Offer to escort Twilight to her lessons. He wished he offer more help.

Luckily everything seemed to repair itself, despite feeling his lack of input. He'd watched as Cadance slowly recovered. Watched as her and Twilight renewed their friendship. Hopeful that maybe they could all recover from this horrible tragedy.

But then it went to shit, all over again.

He remembers that day so clearly. Watching as Cadance ran down the hallway oblivious to her surroundings, watched as she screamed running past him, watched as she cried running past Spark before finally passing out in front of a shocked Capitan Armour.

He helped carry her to the infirmary, placing her on the bed. Questioning Reeetro on what was happening. He watched as she jerked awake, screaming, crying, before Reeetro sedated her.

He walked the empty hallways towards Twilight's room to inform her that Cadance wouldn't be able to make it. He watched as her eyes filled with pain and hurt as she simply nodded and closed the door.

He'd stood for there for a long time. Just staring at Twilight's closed door. It didn't makes sense. What happened?

He'd gone to speak to Cadance the next day but she had refused to tell him. She had refused to tell anypony. All he could do was watch.

Watch as Cadance disappeared again. Watch as Twilight became more withdrawn. Watch as Shining became more bitter. Watch, as hope faded once again.

Four years passed, as their lives became a bitter routine. Happiness and joy lost.

The week before Twilight's eighteenth birthday. Reaper and most ponies had been informed that she would be sent away. Many of us worried at the thought but our reactions were exactly why Celestia had chosen to do this. She wanted Twilight to experience a happy and nurturing environment, and we all agreed that, that was not here.

Shining had been angry, Reeetro had mumbled but agreed. Spark shook her head and walked away. Reaper simply nodded, it was all he could do. He watched as everypony left the throne room. Watched as Celestia had sighed in defeat. He looked towards the ground for a long time. Lost to the emptiness that had taken over his thoughts these last few years. He shook his head, forcing the tears that threatened to fall back to where they belonged and left like everypony else.

He'd never expected to care about anypony this much, but it was a fate he found himself in. What he also never expected was to hear of Cadance's return from seclusion, the rumours that she was smiling again, almost happy even. It didn't seem right. Wasn't sure if he could believe it or not.

And so he set fourth to quell the rumours and the worrying thoughts in his head.

'Surly she cannot be happy that twilight is gone?' He ponders.

As he makes his way round the last corner leading towards Princess Cadance's chambers. He takes a deep breath, trying to squash the sinking feeling in his stomach.

'This feels.....wrong.' He thinks before finding his courage and knocking on the door three times.

“Your highness?” He calls, waiting for an answer.

“Come in!” A cheerful voice replies back.

'That does not sound right.' Reaper holds his breath, as he raises a hoof towards the handle. 'It sounds..... hollow.' He thinks before opening the door and stepping into the room.

He's greeted by the sight of Cadance painting in the corner of her room. A joyful smile on her face.

“Your highness?” He questions, taking a cautious step forward. He watches as the mare turns her head towards him and beams brightly.

“Oh Reaper it's you!” She chirps. “What bring you here?!” He asks, setting down her palette and she stands up stretching her wings.

“I wished to check up on you, see how you were faring from Miss Sparkles departure?” He asks, taking a defensive stance. 'Something's wrong, she's wrong.' His mind warns him.

“Oh that, yeah I'm a little bit sad that I didn't get a chance to say goodbye, but hopefully I'll be able to face her when she returns.” Cadance feigns sadness.

Reaper stares at her in silence, drawing out the seconds. He watches as Cadance twitches under his intense gaze. Watches as she shuffles her hooves, as she grows ever more nervous.

“Is that everything Reaper?” She attempts to dismiss him, but his gaze holds steady. 'What's wrong?' He questions. Had he not been staring so intently he would have missed it, but he doesn't The small flash of green in her eyes

“You.” He says dangerously. “You are not Princess Cadance.” He takes a step back, prepared to charge. The mare simply chuckles.

“What gave it away?” She says, before her eyes flash green again and her horn sends out a flash of magic towards Reaper.

Knocking him out cold.

I Don't Wanna Let Go, I Know I'm Not That Strong.

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“But it doesn't make any sense!” Spark screams to an ignorant Celestia. “Of all ponies, why would Reaper attack Princess Cadance?!” Spark bellows to the Princess before her.

“I do not know Spark.” Celestia huffs in annoyance. “He refuses to speak which doesn't bode well for his innocence.” Celestia says, pacing back and forth.

“Your highness if you know Reaper at all like I do, then you know he wouldn't have done it without reason. Something about this feels wrong.” Spark begs.

“I'm not sure if I know him at all anymore Spark.” Celestia grimaces. “Ever since Cadance's readmission, Reaper has been on a slow decline and maybe the final straw has been cut.”

“How are so quick to judge him, throw him to fire, when you're not even thinking twice about questioning Cadance!” Spark retorts.

“Spark! You will hold your tongue!” Celestia bellows in the royal Canterlot voice, causing Spark to flinch.

“No! I will state my opinion!” Spark holds strong. “Reaper! A pony who has never once betrayed you, never once, given you a reason to doubt him, never once, done anything to waver your trust in him. Does something and you're rushing to lock the cage and throw away the key. But Princess Cadance, who appears to have completely recovered from her depression and anxiety in just a week, that, for some reason gets a pass!” Spark begins crying. Celestia just stares down at her, nostrils flaring.

“You have to understand Spark. Cadance is recovering. I don't want to see her like that ever again, do you understand me? This will all be thoroughly investigated, but you must leave Cadance alone. I can't risk losing her again.” Celestia holds back tears.

“But you'd risk Reaper? You'd risk me?” Spark questions, her ears falling in hurt.

“It's not as simple as that Spark.” Celestia rubs her head in annoyance.

“Is it? Because what I'm hearing is that we're expendable.” She blinks her eyes trying to dislodge the tears.

“Spark!” Celestia yells, tears clinging to the corners of her eyes. “I will not stand for this disobedience. Cease, or I will have your badge!” Celestia threatens, pain pouring from her voice. Spark just shakes her head, racked with sobs, shivering at the coldness filling her heart.

“Do you remember when Reaper stripped those foals of their magic all those years ago.” She chokes through tears, staring off to side of the room.

“Remember how Reaper just waited? Waited for his punishment like the honourable pony he is? Waited to pay for his crimes? I guess he got his wish, because you're so focused on hoping that Cadance has gotten better that you're grasping at straws Celestia! You refuse to think that maybe she's the problem!” Spark screams, looking towards Celestia betrayal evident on her face.

“Enough Spark, you are on probation. Return to your quarters and await further instructions. Now!” Celestia screams, the tears falling freely now.

“I told you, I would defend him, just like I would defend you Princess, but I'm not sure I can defend somepony who thinks so little of the ponies that have given their lives for this kingdom.” Spark says as she turns around, walking towards the door to follow her orders.

“I thought we meant more to you than mere guards Celestia. Many ponies are capable of many things, and I guess betrayal is one of yours.” Spark turns her head back offering a hateful glance towards Celestia, before leaving and slamming the doors behind her.

Celestia watches with pain and anger in her eyes as Spark leaves, before lowering her head to the ground, and crying silently to the room.

….......................................................................................................

Spark walks down the castle hallways, eyes clenched shut is pain, hooves feeling heavy with every step. She barley registers bumping into somepony. She stumbles back, opening her eyes, ready to mutter out an apology. She looks up and her eyes go wide.

“Oops, sorry Spark.” The voice rings out, belonging to none other that Princess Cadance herself. Spark looks up in disbelief, staring at the smiling princess.

“I should reallllllly watch were I'm going.” She closes her eyes, tilting her head in a cute way.

'How?!' Spark stares dumbfounded. 'How can you be happy!?' Sparks mind screams. She opens her mouth to say something, but words fail her.

“Sorry Spark, but I should get going. It was nice to see you!” Candance chirps offering Spark a wave before continuing to walk past her.

Sparks gaze just follows, not believing for one second that any of this is real. She stares down towards the floor, mouth agape. Trying make any sense out of this madness. She'd broken from her thoughts by Cadance yelling from down the hallway. She lifts her head, staring off towards her direction.

“I'm sorry about Reaper, but I hope he's learned his lesson.” Cadance's eyes flash green for a split second. Sparks eyes fly wide open as her mouth hangs in horror “See ya later!” Cadance smiles before continuing around the corner out of sight.

Spark just stares emptily ahead. Before coming to her senses and releasing a repressed growl. She quickly breaks out into a run, bolting down the hallway with a fierce look in her eyes. As she heads towards the dungeon.

….............................................................................................................................

Cadance shivers as the feeling of the caves cold wind rushes through her. Her body aching from sleeping on the floor for past nine days. She couldn't do anything but lay there, waiting, hoping that somepont would show up.

“Well, well, well, I must admit. Some of your friends are little more clever than I gave them credit for.” A voice cackles. Cadance's head shoots up as her heart begins to beat wildly. She turns around, watching as Queen Chrysalis teleports in and proceeds to shift back to her true form.

“What have you done?” Cadance begs, voice weak from all of her cries for help gone in vain.

“It was that black and grey stallion I believe? The one with the scars?” Chrysalis chides.

“Reaper! What have you done to him!” Cadance begs, lifting herself into a sitting position.

“Oh nothing, yet. After all, what's the point in causing a scene, when your beloved Celestia is being so helpful.” Chrysalis laughs, circling Cadance with an evil smile. “She'd been so helpful, all I had to do was scream, oh no, anypony, help me!” Chrysalis puts on a fake voice. “And she was more than happy to drag Reaper off towards the dungeon.” Chrysalis taunts.

“She-She wouldn't, not Reaper.” Cadance's eyes go wide in fear.

“Oh! But she did!” Chrysalis laughs. “In fact, she was more than willing to throw him in there without even a trial!” Chrysalis stops in front of Cadance, placing a hoof under chin and lifting her head to meet her gaze.

“And it's all because of you.” She smirks down as Cadance's eyes fill with regret and fear.

“But don't worry, my dear. I'm sure Celestia won't kill the poor fool, and I've no intention of making anypony go missing just yet.” She chuckles. “But I had to make sure he stayed quiet, although he didn't seem like the kind of pony that talked much before, so I doubt he's missing his voice.”

Cadance jerks her head up, growling in anger. Chrysalis just laughs.

“Oh don't look so upset. It's a simple mute spell, nothing too harmful, however I must say that's it's playing it's part in an ironic way.” She grins, as Cadance stares up in confusion. “I placed it on him just before he was locked away and a magic restricting ring was placed on his horn. So he can't remove the spell.” Crhysalis raises both of her hoofs, weighing out her points.

“No magic, no voice. No voice, stuck in dungeon, Stuck in dungeon, no magic. It's rather funny really.” She laughs, Cadance just growls, attempting to charge up her horn to fire a spell at chrysalis, teleport, anything. But nothing worked, she sighed in defeat.

“Oh stop pouting, really this is all Celestia's fault to be honest. If she wasn't so focused trying to keep, the happy bubbly mare you've returned to being here. Then this wouldn't be happening.” Chrysalis sighs, before turning around walked towards end of the cave.

“And Shining?” Cadance pleads fearfully.

“Oh him.” Chrysalis rolls her eyes. “He's far too deep wallowing in his own self pity like you are, that he's oblivious to anything, but don't worry. I'll convince him to see things my way.” She smirks before teleporting out the cave.

Leaving Cadance in the darkness once again.

…......................................................................................................................

The sound of light snoring can be heard echoing through the dungeons as a guard sits sound asleep on a chair near the end of the hall.

A small dash of blue can be seen hovering in the air, wings making barely any noise.

“Reaper?” The voice asks in a hushed whisper. “It's me, Spark, are you in here?” She tries to remain as quiet as possible so as too not alert the guard.

The faint sound of tapping can be heard coming from near the end of the hall, two cells away from the sleeping guard. Spark moves quietly down the dimly lit hallway. She stops just in front of the cell where she can Reaper hoof.

“Reaper!” Spark whisper yells. “Are you okay?!” She asks worriedly, stealing glances at the sleeping guard. He nods, despite wincing, one eye appeared closed in pain.

“What happened?” She asks. “Why haven't you spoken to Celestia? She says you're refusing to speak?” She glances worriedly between Reaper and the sleeping guard. Reaper just taps his throat with his hoof.

“What? You can't speak?” She question in fear.

He simply nods his head letting out a huff of exhaustion. “Was it Cadance?” She prods, he just nods hid head. Spark takes one last glance towards towards the guard before settling her gaze firmly on Reaper.

“Look I don't know what happened, but I know that you're innocent. I think something is wrong with Cadance. Celestia's so blinded she refuses to see reason.” Spark turns towards the sleeping guard and proceeds to sneak near him, slowly and carefully, she manages to steal his keys with her wingtip and returns to the cell holding Reaper.

“We need to get out of here. I have a feeling that we're all gonna be in danger if we stay. If we want to protect everypony we need to gets this ring off you and somehow convince Celestia to see reason. I've tried talking to her but she'd not budging. I think our best option is to run and figure out a plan from there, okay?” She puts the keys in her mouth and begins fumbling with the lock.

She feels a hoof on her shoulder as she manages to get the key into the lock. She looks up to notice Reaper looking at her with a warm smile, nodding in gratitude. She nods back before the sound of a lock clicking resonates throughout the empty dungeon.

The sudden noise causes the guard sleeping to jerk awake.

“Wha-huh- Who goes there?!” The guard yells groggily before brandishing his spear, eyes rapidly searching for intruders. His eyes widen at the the sight of lieutenant Reapers currently empty cell. He rushes to door, making note of the keys inside the lock before quickly looking around inside.

“Prisoner escape!” The guard yells before disappearing up the stairs to inform the rest of the castle.

…..................................................................................................................................

“I want them found!” Celestia's voice echo's through the throne room, filled with anger.

“We've searched everywhere your highness, but it appears that Sergeant Spark and Lieutenant Reaper have vanished.” Three royals guards, shuffle around angrily, worried expressions etched onto their faces, watching the monarch grow ever angrier.

“They will not have gotten far, Reaper still has his initiator ring on and only a unicorn can remove it! They will be on hoof! Search the grounds, now!” Celestia screams in fury.

“Yes, your highness!” The guards salute before running off to carry out their task.

“Lieutenant Reaper and Sergeant Spark are hereby classed as traitors! Capture them at all cost.” Celestia seethes, a small flame erupting her eyes.

“Yes, your highness.” The three guards repeat, just as they make it past the door.

…............................................................................................................................

“My, my, what ever is going on?” Chrysalis ponders as she stares out towards the castle ground, watching several guards running around in panic. She stops mid thought as a knock it heard coming from Cadance's chamber doors.

“Enter.” She says flatly. She watches as the door opens and two hoof-maidens step into her chambers, shutting the door behind her.

“Status update.” She smirks as the maids slowly morph into the form of two small changeling's.

“It appears that the unicorn and pegasus have escaped.” One of them hisses.

“Then we must find them before Celestia does. Even if the unicorn cannot remove his ring, the other could pose a threat to us. Capture them before that happens.” She commands.

“Yes, my queen.” They both hisses, bowing before turning back into their respected facades and exiting the room to inform the rest of the hive.

Chrysalis simply smirks looking down towards the garden, revelling in the chaos.

...................................................................................................................................................

“What?” Cadance panics. “What do you mean you remember everything? How? I thought-” She trails off lost in the painful memories that begin to surface.

…............................................................................................................................

The sweet sounds of humming can be heard throughout the royal gardens.

“La la la la.......La la la.” Cadance sing merrily as she continued to pour water over the freshly bloomed flowers in the garden.

“Sound like somepony's having fun.” A deep chuckle can be heard, causing Cadance to spin around sickly sweet smile plastered on her face.

“Well, I might as well have fun while I'm watering the plants shouldn't I?” She gives a small pout, lowering her ears in mock hurt.

“I guess so.” The face of Shining Armour is revealed as he removes his helmet.

“Don't they look beautiful?” Cadance beams, turning back to continue watering the blooming roses. She sighs at the feeling of muzzle nudging into her neck.

“They do, but not as beautiful as you.” Shining grins, eyes closed taking in Cadance's scent.

“Oh Shining, ya big softy.” She places the can down, turning to look at him fully. He just hums in agreement. “How did training go?” She asks brushing his mane away from his eyes.

“Like it always goes, long and tiring.” They both chuckle.

“Well, hopefully you won't feel too tired. I was hoping you'd come to my chambers tonight so we could, spend time together.” Cadance flutters her eyes seductively.

Shining's eyes squint a little, becoming seemingly unfocused, before watching as Cadance's horn flares up in a light green aura and her eyes turn bright green, locking him in. Shining's mind goes blank as he feel the dizzying green toxins enter his body, stripping away any kind of rational thought. He shakes his head clear, eyes refocusing on the pink mare in front of him.

“Whatever you want sweetheart.” He hums. Not noticing the fanged smile of the mare before him. Cadance just chuckles. Shoving him away.

“Great, I'll see you tonight.” She gives him a seductive smile, before picked up the watering can and continuing with her gardening. Shining just hums and proceeds to walk away. Cadance watches with an amused expression.

“All according to plan.” She smiles evilly to herself.

I Just Wanna Hear You, Saying Baby, Let's Go Home.

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Peaceful.

That was Reeetro's first thought, trotting down the unusually lively castle.

Everything seemed peaceful.

The castle was filled with the warmth of the mid afternoon sun. The colours of the carpet seemed brighter than he ever remembered them being. Servants and guards were walking around with smiles on their muzzles.

Yes, everything seemed perfect.

So why did he have a horrid feeling in his stomach that something was wrong.

Maybe because it all seemed to start happening the day after Twilight left. He heard rumours, that Cadance had made a reappearance. He wasn't sure what to make of it. He's asked to speak to her but was refused. That was strike one.

He'd been informed that Cadance would no longer be taking her medication to which he heavily argued, but was commanded to drop the subject. That was strike two.

Then, not even a fortnight after Twilight's departure. He'd been informed that Reaper and Spark had gone AWOL and had been branded traitors. That was strike three.

None of this made any sense. He wanted to ask questions, but he wasn't stupid. If Reaper had been arrested, Spark would have asked questions. Spark could be emotional but she always used sound reason, not as much as himself, but enough to warrant an investigation.

Reeetro was not an idiot. He knew if he kept pushing that somepony would grow suspicious. So he stayed quiet, fell in line, like the rest. He couldn't stand the thought of his home, his friends being in trouble, but he was not a solider either. He didn't have clearance to go to certain areas, that if found in, would warrant an immediate arrest.

So he waited, and listened. For anything that might help him without giving himself away. He kept himself busy with work. Kept his thoughts from running off too far. He knew that somepony, Shining, Celestia, Cadance, anypony would come speak to him if they thought something was wrong. Hoped that Spark or Reaper would return to tell him something, but no pony came.

….................................................................................................................................

The first red flag was when Captain Shining Armour came in, complaining of a head ache. He'd questioned him as slyly as he was able, as he did his check up.

“I dunno Reeetro, it's feels like my head is going to explode.” Shining had complained, clutching his horn in agony.

“Well let me run a diagnostic spell.” He says taking a flash light out of his medical bag and proceeds to begin walking towards Shining. “Now, I'm gonna need you to look ahead for me.” He asks switching on the light, Shining it both of Shining's eyes. His horn slowly charges up with a white aura as he casts spell over Shining's body.

“That's odd, it feels like-” Reeetro begins before his eyes go wide and his mouth hangs slightly agape. He stops, the small flash light falling to the ground with a thud, causing Shining to twitch nervously.

“What is it Reeetro? Is something wrong?” He gives him a worried look. Reeetro just looks ahead in shock, watching as Shining's eyes begin to glow a faint green. He stutters for a moment before his horn pops. Signalling the completion of the spell. His eyes widen even more at the realization.

“So that's why......” He trains off, watching Shining's expression become even more worried. He quickly shakes his head, offering a warm smile.

“Sorry, I thought I sensed an anomaly but I know what this is. Magical exertion, I'll prescribe you some painkillers, but you should refrain from using magic for a couple of day, and the headache should go away.” He says turning around to head towards his medicine cabinet, his eyes scanning the floor in confusion.

“Oh great.” Shining's relaxes. “You have me worried there for a second, I thought it was something bad.” He stands up, watching at Reeetro brings him over a small bottle.

“Take two of these a day, morning and night, refrain from magic, and it should go away in a few days.” He smiles.

Shining thanks him and leave the room. Reeetro's expression turns into that of worried one.

“That can't be.” He mutters to the empty room. “I need to find Nebula.” He admits to nopony.

He leaves in search of answers, answers he's not sure he wants to find.

…..........................................................................................................................

He didn't believe it. 'Mind control? Of all things? What pony would be horrid enough to do that?' Reeetro thinks quietly to himself. Preparing supply's for the day. He's interrupted by the sound of his door opening.

“I assure guard, I am fine.” The voice hisses. He turns around to be greeted with sight of none other than Cadance herself. Holding a white cloth to her hoof.

“Her majesties orders, your highness.” Guard shakes his head, before turning to leave the room.

Reeetro watches as Cadance huffs before turning her attention towards him, a scowl on her face.

“Ah, Cadance.” He begins slowly. “How nice of you to pop in for a visit. It's only been what? Ten months?” He scowls. Cadance merely looks at him in annoyance.

“I'm afraid this isn't a social call Ree-” She stops, closing her eyes in concentration. “Reeetro.” She manages to force out. “I assured them I was fine, but they insist that I come see you.” She huffs.

“Well take a seat, and we'll assess the damage won't we?” He asks sceptically. Cadance relents, nodding and taking a seat on one of the beds.

“So.” He begins, picking up a stethoscope and placing it around his neck. “What seems to be the problem?” He asks slowly making his way towards Cadance.

“I was just in the garden when I cut myself on one of the roses thorns. I'm fine, really.” She huffs.

“Well let's take a look to make sure, shall we?” He asks, removing the cloth from her hoof. He notices a long but shallow cut on the side of Cadance's hoof. “It's not too deep, I'll just clean and bandage it and you can be on your way.” He says walking towards the end of the room for supplies.
“So.” He asks, drawing out how long it would take to get a simple bandage and sterilising liquid.

“How have you been Cadance?” He glances round, noting her gazing off to the corner of the room with an irritable look.

“Fine.” She replies flatly. He scowls, turning back around pretending to assemble a tray.

“I heard that you stopped taking your medication? Feeling better, are we?” He quips, stealing another glance.

“You could say that.” She replies flatly, continuing to stare off towards the end of the room.

“I heard you and Shining have started courting? Is that going well?” He asks, fumbling with the tray.

“Yes. Everything is going fine.” She says, a slight hiss in her voice.

“Unfortunate to hear what happened to Spark and Reaper.” He finishes with the tray, turning around and proceeds to walk towards Cadance. He watches as her glare turns icy. He sets the tray down in front of her proceeding to pick up a cotton bud, soaking it in sterile liquid.

“That must of upset you?” He questions, looking towards her face. She simply turns her head to look at him. Reeetro freezing still at the cold glare.

“Quite, but in my opinion they shouldn't of been asking so many questions.” She hisses.

He averts his gaze, un-comfortableness settling in his stomach. He proceeds to clean the wound before freezing at the strange sight.

Green blood?

“Something the matter Reeetro?” He looks up, glaring into the icy cold eyes of a pony he once saw as a friend. He stares for a long moments before speaking.

“That rose must have been toxic.” He firmly states, as he finishes cleaning the wound and proceeds to apply the bandage. “You should keep an eye on it.” He finishes tying the bandage, taking a couple steps back. Cadance just smiles sweetly, hoping down from the bed.

“Don't worry, I will.” She says, proceeding to leave the room. Reeetro looks off towards the side, trying to calm the rushing thoughts in his head. A voice interrupts him.

“And Reeetro?” He turns to see Cadance standing at the door. He simply glares at her.

“I'm still glad your here, hopefully you won't disappear as well.” She smiles hollowly before proceeding to leave the room.

Reeetro huffs, taking off his stethoscope and placing it on the side.

He knew this wasn't right. 'Something bad is going to happen.' He thinks before proceeding to leave the room.

Nearly a year has passed, and Reeetro was done waiting.

…....................................................................................................................

“Your highness? It's Reeetro.” Reeetro knocks on the door to Celestia's chambers.

“Enter.” He hears Celestia call. He steps inside, softly shutting the door behind him. He takes note of a hoof-maiden serving Celestia her afternoon tea and takes a few cautious steps.

“Ah, Reeetro. What brings you here?” She asks taking a sip from her cup.

“I was wondering if I could have a word with you?” He asks, taking a quick glance at the hoof-maiden. “Privately?” He begs. Celestia nods, ushering the hoof-maiden out. Reeetro watches the pony leave, waiting until the door is shut before turning back to Celestia.

“What do you wish to speak about Reeetro?” Celestia questions, setting down her cup.

“It's about Cadance.” He begins, taking a step forward. Celestia sighs.

“Reetro, I don't want to hear it-” She begins before being cut off.

“Please, your highness. Hear me out?” He begs. Celestia relents nodding. “I know that you're happy that Cadance seems to have made a fully recovery but something doesn't feel right.” He states taking another step forward. Watching Celestia sigh.

“I know you want to believe her, I do too, but the week recovery? Her and Shining? Reaper and Spark? It doesn't add up.” He stops just in front of Celestia. “Surely you're smarter than this your highness? Surely you can see that something is wrong?” He begs, watching as Celestia sighs, standing up to head towards her balcony, peering out into the gardens.

“I understand your concerns Reeetro, but rest assured. I am keeping a close eye on her. She still seems to exhibit paranoid behaviour, still appears a little lost at times. I think she's hiding again, but she's trying, can't you accept that? For me?” She turns around giving Reeetro a pleading look.

“But Reaper, Spark?” He mumbles, distraught at the loss of his friends.

“Are a terrible loss, but Reaper attacked Cadance and Spark assisted him in escaping prison. You have to understand the consequence of this?” She says firmly.

“Do you honestly believe that?” Reeetro looks up, hurt evident on his face. Celestia just sighs lowering her head.

“No. I don't. But we can't pretend that the past fourteen years haven't had an effect on us. I am at my wits end, but thankfully I have faced worse situations. To the average pony this could be the turning point, and as much as I trusted Reaper and Spark, everypony has a limit, and I think they must of hit theirs.” Celestia sighs.

“Oh Celestia.” Reeetro says painfully. “You're so focused on returning things to normal, that you refuse to notice that maybe the war is just beginning?” He pleads, watching as Celestia lifts her head towards him, giving him an icy glare.

“There is no war Reeetro. Cadance is healing, and you will not interfere.” She says coldly.

“And if I refuse?” He challenges. Celestia just sigh, taking a deep breath, before taking a defensive stance.

“Then you leave me no choice.” She says with pain in her voice. “Guards!” She yells. Reeetro clutches is eyes in pain, a lone tear making it's way down his muzzle and two guards step into the room.

“Yes your highness!” The guards salute.

“Escort Dr Reeetro to the dungeons, immediately” She orders. The guards take a worried glance towards each other before slowly nodding.

“Celestia.....” Reeetro opens his eyes, looking straight towards Celestia. Watching the pain and hurt in her gaze mirrored in his own.

Celestia watches as the guards escort Reeetro out, and releases a cry of pain, echoed through the large chamber.

Yeah Let's Go Home, I Just Wanna Take You Home.

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The sound of a quill could be heard scratching on parchment, echoing through the library's large open room.

Twilight sighed, placing down the quill before softly gazing towards the small candle flame, her only source of light during the cold night. She shivered at the cold feeling running through her fur and turned around, noticing a window had been left open.

She slowly rose from her chair making her way over, softly closing it. She offered a weak glance towards the basket at the foot of her bed, smiling weakly at the sleeping drake, snoring lightly.

She turned her attention back towards the starry sky. As the moon bathed her room in a gentle glow.
The past year had been amazing. She'd made friends, gone on adventures and learned so much over the short course of time.

So why did still feel so alone?

Everypony in Ponyville seemed to be filled with so much love and warmth. She couldn't understand it. She thinks back to her time in the castle. Remembered how everypony hoof-steeped around her. Always cautious, always afraid of something.

She closes her eyes as images of Princess Celestia, Shining and Cadance fill her mind. The look of pained expressions, filled her memoires. Her thoughts lingered on Cadance. How terrified she always looked, how her smiles always seemed so broken. He eyes fling open as her expression contorts into one of despair.

Cadance had left without a single word. She felt tears filling her eyes before clenching them shut and shaking her head, will the tears away.

Cadance was gone. Twilight couldn't change that, and she refused to shed any more tears on the subject.

She walked over to her desk, extinguishing the light and slowly made her way over towards her bed.
She had other things to worry about. She was going to spend the day with Applejack tomorrow, Scootalo, Sweetie Bell and Applebloom were going to Canterlot tomorrow to visit the royal gardens.

She shifted un-comfortablely, as the thoughts of sad pink mare, sent her off into a broken sleep.

.............................................................................................................................

The gardens were alive with sounds of chirping and faint humming. Cadance was in the garden, taking care of the plants as usual. The sound of clanking metal approaching causing her to grin.

“I thought you weren't coming today?” She chides in a happy tone.

“We finished early today.” The unmistakable voice of Shining armour was heard. “And I needed to ask you a question.” He says taking off his helmet.

Cadance smiles, slowly placing down her water can before turning around.

“Okay, what abou-” She says before pausing in shock at the sight before her. Shining armour was knelt down on one leg, holding out a red box with a brilliant shining ruby ring inside of it. Cadance covered her mouth before gazing into the stallions eyes. He simply smirked before asking;

“Cadance, will you marry me?”

…...........................................................................................................................

Cadance watches with tear filled eyes, at the sight before her.

Watches as a pink Alicorn jumps up and down in glee, nodding furiously before a ring slips onto her horn and she proceeds to hug a tall white stallion.

Terror grips her heart as she watches the mare turn towards her, winking evilly.

Cadance doesn't even bother to scream anymore.

….........................................................................................................................

The sounds of hooves running through mud echoes through the darkened woods.

“Reaper, we need to move! The frantic voice of Spark calls. She dodges through various trees before coming to a halting just behind a large trunk.

She sits still, holding her breath, assessing, waiting. The sound of a twig snapping causes her ears to stand on end and her heart rate to increase. She holds position. Unmoving.

She blinks rapidly, daring to peek her head over the trunk. She can't see anything but the thick fog surrounding the landscape.

She lets out an exhausted breath. How long had her and Reaper been on the run? She couldn't remember. As soon as her and Reaper had made it past the castle grounds she'd heard it.

Heard Celestia branding them traitors.

They had to hide, quickly. They'd made it to the train station and managed to board unnoticed. They'd shed their armour just before getting off and proceeding to make their way towards the northern mountains. They had to lay low. Soon enough, their muzzles would be plastered all over Canterlot and probably most of Equestria come months end. They needed to hide.

Unfortunately Reaper still had his initiator ring on, which meant that magic was out, and they wouldn't be able to walk through a town for supplies without getting noticed. So they'd remained hidden in the darkest forests, away from every pony.

They were exhausted. Neither dared to sleep for more than a couple hours a night lest they be caught. They took turns to watch the other sleep, and they ran.

Spark couldn't help feeling her eye lids flutter, despite the adrenaline that was coursing through her body. She gulped heavily daring to call out to the fog.

“Reaper!” She yell whispered and watched in fear as the fog drifted through the trees. The sounds of thumping echoing through the distance, causing Sparks heart to fill with panic. Then suddenly it stopped. She slowly climbed over the tree trunk, etching forward blindly into the fog.

“Reaper!” She tried again a little louder, before she stopped. Hearing a faint sound of humming quiet close to her. She froze closing her eyes to focus on the sound.

“Found you.” A voiced hissed. Sparks eyes flew open before she quickly turned around, noticing a bright flash of green before everything went dark.

.............................................................................................................................................

The sounds hooves scraping on the floor could be heard echoing throughout the castle dungeons.

In the furthest cell a small figure began rousing from an uncomfortable sleep, sitting up groggily before reaching up to place a hoof on his horn and feeling the cold metal reside there.

“Damn it.” Reeetro exclaimed to the empty cell, meagerly hoping that he would wake up and the ring would be gone. His ears pricked up at the sound of somepony trotting down towards his cell. He forces himself to stand, peering out the bar sceptically.

His eyes widen in shock, at the sight before him.

Coming down the hallway, hooves chained together, were Reaper and Spark.
“Reaper! Spark!” Reeetro calls out, leaning his hoof out of his cell in an attempt to reach his friends, before a guard yells at him.

“Reeetro! Step back!” The guard threatens. Reeetro reluctantly steps back, watching as both of his friends are escorted into separate cells. He watches the guards leave before leaning through the bars again.

“Reaper! Spark!” He whisper yells. “What happened?! What's going on?!” He pleads.

His face drains of colour as the two ponies give him a sickening smile, eyes flashing bright green.

He looks on in horror at the realization.

The enemy has infiltrated.

The war had begun.

…....................................................................................................................

Betrayal.

It was an odd word on Twilight's tongue.

After spending so much time in Ponyville, she felt even more confused by her memories from the castle, felt more frustrated at the memories of a cautious Shining armour, a calculated Celestia, a broken Cadance.

She now knew why. All because of Discord.

When he'd invaded, she thought for sure that she and her friends could beat him.

But as she watched her friends lose their hope, one by one, she felt despair.

She watched as they all left her, and felt a brokenness take over her heart.

Felt the cold feeling of her sorrow encase her, as her fur turned grey.

Listened to Discord taunt her, as she was abandoned, once again.

She returned home, all light and hope gone from her eyes as she climbed the steps towards her bed preparing to pack and leave, forever.

Worry filled her vision as she watched Spike writhe around on the floor in agony. Burping up scroll after scroll. She watched with curiosity and proceeded to pick up one of the scrolls.

Her eyes furrowed in confusion. 'My friendship reports?' Her mind questions as her eyes scan the paper. 'Why would the princess send me these?' She ponders before relenting to read one.

She feels her heart swell as the memoires of her time with her friends return. Reminding her of one of the truest gifts in life, and just as she feels her heart become filled with so much joy. She freezes.

As something else returns.

She's not sure she believes it, she can't at first. It's blurry, like it's something from long ago. She remembers. She remembers Cadance and her playing in the garden. Remembers her promising to read her a bedtime story if she went to go play with the other foals for an hour.

She remembers the pain.

Then she remembers, waking up in the hospital. A sad smiling Dr Reeetro looking down at her. He told her that she'd had an accident and hit her head, and that she probably couldn't remember.

She'd never thought that anything of it, but it all made so much sense now.

Celestia looking so remorseful. Shining being so cautious around her. Cadance being so broken. All the puzzles fell into place.

She dropped the scroll as tears filled her eyes. Finally understanding what she's missed for so long.

She lets out a growl and rushes out towards the door.

She'll speak to Celestia soon enough but it will have too wait. Right now, she needs to save her friends. She bolts out the door towards Sweet Apple Acres, tears pouring from her eyes.

She'll finally get the answers she's waited for, for so long.

….......................................................................................................................................

Celestia was sitting in her chambers, watching the clock move. Listening to the deafening ticks as the minutes passed by.

She was worried.

Twilight had sent her a letter, telling her that she would be coming to see her. Not asking, telling.

'Princess, I'm coming to speak to you urgently, Twilight' Was all the letter said. No 'Yours faithfully' No long drawn out detail about her day. A simple statement, and it filled her with dread.

She watched the clock, growing ever more nervous as the handle ticked by.

Twilight would be here soon.

She took a deep breath, calming her thoughts before the sound of the clock chiming sent a chill down her spine. She stared emptily towards it. The handles pointing exactly on nine. The sound of a knock breaks her out of her thoughts.

“Your highness?” A stallions voice questions. She swallows heavily.

“Yes?” She asks in a shaky voice.

“Miss Twilight Sparkle is here to see you.” He states. Celestia takes one last breath before speaking up.

“Send her in.” She takes on a defensive stance, as her mask slips into place.

She watches as a small purple unicorn steps into the room, filling her vision, and her heart breaks at the sight. Tears streaming down her face, years worth of pain and hurt brought to the surface.

“How could you?!” She watches in pain and horror, as Twilight screams at her.

The room goes quiet, only the sound of Twilight's broken, tear filled gasps, echoing throughout the heavy room.

Celestia's eyes close as she prepares.

To finally tell Twilight the truth.

….....................................................................................................................

“It was after our fight with discord.” Twilight chokes. “I watched as all of my friends left me, I felt alone and betrayed.” She takes a step closer towards Cadance. “I'd gone home, I was going to run when I found that Celestia had sent Spike all of my old friendship scrolls.” She takes seat in front of Cadance on the floor. Cadance just stares at her, a guilty expression on her face, tears in her eyes.

“I read them, smiling at the memories I'd made with my new friends.” Twilight gives a faint smile before looking off to the side of the room with a sad expression. “But.....” She trails off.

“But?” Cadance pleads, needing to hear the rest.

“But the memories of my friends weren't the only ones that came back.” She says, turning her attention back to Cadance. Cadance just chokes out a sob.

“I'm so sorry Twilight.” She cries, rubbing her hooves into her bewildered mane.

“Why didn't you tell me Cadance?” Twilight pleads, reaching out a hoof and placing it on one of her legs.

“I wanted to.” She chokes, staring deeply into Twilight's eyes. “I wanted to tell you, but I couldn't.” She sniffs, watching Twilight give her a sorrowful smile.

“It was my fault, you were so focused on learning, so sure that me, Celestia and Shining were all you needed, that you forced yourself to be alone.” Cadance sobs. “I just wanted you to have friends, but I never thought- I could never of imagined-” She chokes, Twilight just shakes her head, giving her a warm smile.

“You did what you thought was best.” She scoots closer. “You wanted to see me happy, you can't blame yourself for that.” Her horn lights up, brushing stray hairs away from Cadance's face. As she continues to choke out breaths.

“I was angry.” Twilight looks down towards the floor. “After beating Discord, I came straight here and Celestia told me everything.” She chokes. “I wanted to see you, but she wouldn't let me.” She says, shaking the tears from her eyes.

“She told me it was too much for you, that you couldn't be around me anymore.” She chokes. Cadance just shakes her head as she quickly leans in to hug Twilight.

“If I'd of known.” Cadance clutches harder. “If I'd of known for even a second that you were here, I'd of come.” She sobs, hoping Twilight believed her.

“Why didn't you?” Twilight clutches back, shaking with tears.

Cadance clutches harder, refusing to let go.

“Because she had me then.” Cadance begs. “She had all of us.” She cries.

“When?” Twilight begs. Cadance releases her grip. Leaning back and huffing, eyes red from tears.

“A week before you're eighteenth.” She sniffles.

“And before? Where did you go Cadance? Why did you leave?” Twilight begs.

Cadance's ears perk up as she feels her face beginning to flush bright red at the memory.

Hold On, I Still Want You.

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“How could you lie to me?” Twilight sobs to a stone faced Celestia. “All this time?!” She cries. Celestia just takes a deep breath, refusing to break.

“I had to Twilight. It was for your own good.” She says flatly. Twilight just scoffs, staring off into the carpet.

“You have to understand Twilight.” Celestia pleads. “You went through a terrible thing, that should of never happened to you. I couldn't in good conscience let you remember such a horrific event.” Celestia begs, the mask slowly slipping.

“So that made erasing my memories okay?!” She cries. Celestia just closes her eyes taking a deep breath, forcing the tears in her eyes to remain. She had to stay strong.

“No, it did not. I didn't want to at first.” Celestia opens her eyes, hoping that the tears will stay at bay. “But such a horrific event, for a mare of your age. It would have stunted you. You were already so reserved. I didn't want to risk you being alone forever.” She pleads.

“It wasn't your choice to make!” Twilight cries in anger. Celestia just closes her eyes again.

“Perhaps not.” She breaths deeply. “But understand Twilight, I did not do this on a whim. I asked your parents opinion, I asked Shining, and they all agreed it was the best choice.” She huffs.

“And Cadance?” Celestia's eyes fling open at the mention of her nieces name. She stares towards Twilight, hurt and pain evident.

“She didn't agree.” Celestia shakes her head, a remorseful look on her face. Tears coming to the surface again. “She damned me for it.” She confesses.

“Where is she? I want to see her!” Twilight cries.

“I'm afraid I can't let you do that.” Celestia says firmly.

“Why?!” Twilight bellows.

“Twilight.......” Celestia stands up, looking down at her broken student. “After that fateful day, Cadance was never the same. She blamed herself for what happened. She still does. Maybe one day she will be able to face you, but you have to let her come to you.” Celestia begs. Twilight just shakes her head.

“Why?” She whispers. “Why did she leave again?” Twilight's eyes continue to fill with tears as she chokes back sobs.

“I do not know Twilight.” Celestia confesses. “She would not tell me. Everything seemed to be going fine, until one day.....” She trails off. “I am sorry Twilight, truly I am.” She gives her student a pained expression. A single tear sliding down her muzzle. Twilight just looks at her with a broken expression, that will be burned into her memory for years.

She watched, as Twilight shook her head of tears. Anger carved into her features, before be turned to walk away.

“Twilight!” Celestia called after her but it was too late.

The door slammed closed as Celestia let the mask fall, and tears filled her eyes.

She fell onto her haunches and began sobbing to the empty room.

The sound of a ticking clock filled the emptiness of Celestia's heart, as she watched losing her faithful student.

All over again.

…...................................................................................................................................

“Eye, that hurts like a bitch!” The gruff sound of a stallion could be heard walking down the halls of the castle towards the medical room. “All these years and ya'd think I'd of learned not ta burn meself on the iron anymore.” The stallion hisses, holding up his left hoof, limping towards the door.

“Eye! Reeetro! Ya in there! It's Firecraft!” He yells, banging on the door with his shoulder.

“Come in.” The voice calls. He opens the door and steps inside, shutting it behind him.

“Thank Celestia, I could use-” He comes to an abrupt stop at the sight before him. The first thing he notices is the guard in the room, the second, is the ball and chain wrapped around Reeetro's leg, and the third, a metal ring on top of his horn. He notes with a worried expression, as he takes a cautious step closer.

“Eye? What's going on here then?” He questions septically. Reeetro finishes writing down something before placing the the pen down and giving him a tired smile.

“Firecraft, lovely to see you. Please, take a seat.” Reeetro beckons towards the bed. Firecraft raises an eyebrow, taking a quick look towards the guard.

“Ya wanna explain why he's here first?” He nods his head towards the guard.

“Her majesties orders!” The guard calls out.

“Eye, what if they're has been a problem with me danglely bits? Sure ya wanna stay fer that?” He gives a smirk to the guard who just holds position, unmoving. Firecraft huffs before turning his attention to Reeetro.

“Eye, Reeetro want to tell me what in the hay is going on here?” Firecraft prods trying to get an answer.

“I guess you don't get out much do you?” Reeetro replies, before the guard interrupts him.

“Reeetro! Off duty!” He yells. Firecraft gives him a stern look before turning back to Reeetro, who simply sighs.

“What seems to be the problem?” He asks. Firecraft looks him up and down, noting the bags under his eyes.

“I went an burned meself on the iron, just need a patch up.” He eyes him sceptically.

“Of course.” He watches as Reeetro proceeds to head towards the cupboard pulling out a cooling liquid and a cloth before dropping it to the floor. He sighs trying to pick it up, failing three times before he manages.

He heads back towards Firecraft items in mouth before setting them down on the table next to the bed.

“Forgive me, It's been difficult not being able to use magic.” He sighs tiredly. As he proceeds to uncap the jar, pouring the liquid onto the cloth.

“Eye, a can see that? But why in the hell can't ye use yer magic? Why ya chained up?” He asks with a worried expression. Reeetro finishes, handing the cloth to Firecraft.

“Hold that please.” He asks. “I'm under supervision.” He states flatly.

“Fer what?” Fircraft asks sternly. Taking the cloth from Reeetro and doing as told.

“Because I-” He begins before being interrupted.

“Reeetro! Off Duty!” The guard yells. Firecraft turns towards him an icy glare.

“Yer about to be off duty in a minute if ya don't shut yer pie hole!” He yells. The guard takes a step forward.

“Enough.” Reeetro states and the guard stops. “There's no need for that.” He says coldly. The guard shoots him a glare before stepping back. Reeetro turns his muzzle towards Firecraft.

“Will that be all?” He asks. Firecraft gives him a worried look, before nodding. “Great.” Reeetro states. He goes over towards his desk, pulling a small bottle from it before coming back and handing it to Firecraft.

“Keep pressure on the cloth for about an hour, and take one of these every four hours, they should help with the pain.” He pushes the bottle towards him. Firecraft eyes him sceptically before Reeetro continues.

“Please, I insist.” He gives him a wink. Firecraft just nods standing to leave the room. He watches as Reeetro sighs and heads back towards his desk. He offers him a glance before turning to leave the room.

He shuts the door behind him, feeling utterly confused. He looks at the bottle of pills in his hoof, giving it a experimental shake. He doesn't hear anything. Brow furrowing in confusion he opens the lid and notices a piece of paper inside. He pulls out the paper, it's a note from Reetro.

-Dungeon, Midnight tonight, Reeetro- Is all it says. His brow furrows in confusion even more before he relents walking back to his hut. He throws the paper in the furnace before sitting down, a worried look etched onto his face.

…..............................................................................................................................

The clock strikes midnight, as Firecraft makes his way into the dungeon, carrying a bag of tools with him and some nails in a pouch. He can't help wondering what the hell is going on.

A guard stops him at the entrance to the stairs, asking him to state his business.

“A got called to come and check out the locks on the cells.” He states with a blank expression.

“In the middle of the night?” The guard asks skeptically.

“Eye, ya want me to make sure that the prisoners stay in there cells? Or do you want ta explain to her highness why they've escaped?” He glares. The guard simply nods letting him through.

He wanders down, looking around, before the sight of a hoof waving through the bars gets his attention. He trots over noticing Reeetro. Giving him a stern glare before speaking.

“Eye now, what the hell-” He starts before being shushed by Reeetro who points towards the end of the room. Firecraft follows his hoof, his gaze landing on the sleeping guard at the end of the hall. He turns his attention back towards Reeetro, continuing in a hushed whisper.

“What in the hay is going on Reeetro? Why are you in jail?” The fire maned stallion asks. Reeetro shakes his head before speaking up.

“We don't have a lot of time. Something's happened to Princess Cadance.” He whispers stealing glances towards the sleeping guard.

“Eye, the Princess? What's happened?” He asks worriedly.

“I'm not sure, the day before Twilight Sparkle left she just seemed to change completely. Princess Celestia refuses to see reason and Spark and Reaper are missing.” He says in a painful voice.

“Missin? Are ya sure?” He asks, even more worriedly. Reeetro nods.

“A week after Cadance's sudden change, she claimed that Reaper attacked her, and threw him in here. Spark helped him escape and they went on the run for about a year. They were captured and brought down here but.....” Reeetro trails off.

“But?” Firecraft nudges.

“They- They didn't look right. They had bright green glowing eyes, I think they were imposters.” He says worriedly as the guard shifting in the corner causes them both to freeze They both release a sigh of relief as he continues to snore.

“I think something bad is going to happen Firecraft. Something soon.” He whispers with a pained expression.

“What do ya want me ta do?” He asks with a determined look.

“You need to find Spark and Reaper. The real Spark and Reaper.” He glances back towards the sleeping guard.

“Any idea where ta look?” He pleads.

“I heard rumours that ponies have been sneaking off towards the castles catacombs. I think that would be the best place to start.” He says, he freezes as the guards snoring appears to stop and he begins to shift in his chair.

“Hurry!” He pushes Firecraft towards the exit, motioning for him to leave. Firecraft nods before turning to leave.

“Firecraft wait!” Reeetro stops him halfway down the hallway. Firecraft turns around.

“Find Nebula! I don't know what you're going to find but it won't be good! Take back-up!” He pleads. Firecraft just nods before bolting out back up the stairs.

“Wha- Who goes there?!” The guard yells, suddenly jerking awake. He stand up groggily and begins to walk down the hallway, past the cells.

He passes the body of Reeetro, feigning sleep.

Reeetro breaths steadily, hoping for a miricle.

…................................................................................................................................

Star Nebula was passed out at his desk surround by a pile of books when the sound of a door being kicked open causes him to jolt awake, hooves swinging wildly in the air before falling to the floor.

“Nebula!” The frantic voice of Firecraft can be heard.

“Wha-Who-” Nebula jolts up from the floor, straightening his glasses. “Firecraft?” He quints trying to focus. “What brings you here?” He asks yawning before turning to look at his clock. “In the middle of the night, shoot.” He states clearly displeased with himself over falling asleep at his desk.

“Never mind that, we need to move!” Firecraft yells before rushing around his room seemingly looking for supplies.

“What? Can't it wait till morning?” He yawns, amused at the stallions antics.

“We don't have time!” He yells throwing a bag towards Nebula, the satchel hitting him square in the muzzle. “Pack all yer magicky shite, we need to move!” He says quickly.

“Magicky sh-” Nebula shakes his head at the audacity. “Slow down, what's going on?” He questions, no longer amused by the stallions antics.

“I'll explain on the way, but you an me need to go back ta ma hut to grab some weapons and leave now.” He says grabbing a large satchel for himself.

“Weapons?” Nebula's eyes go wide. “Why do we need weapons?” He asks worriedly. Pulling on the satchel before following a frantic Firecraft out of the study.

“I'll explain on the way!” He yells as he takes off into a gallop. Nebula following closely behind.

….........................................................................................................................

They arrive at Firecrafts hut as he begins pulling random weapons off the wall assessing their durability while Nebula stands in the doorway looking worried.

“So let me get this straight?” He asks suspiciously. “You want to go gallivanting into the the restricted catacombs in the middle of the night? On the seemingly wild allegations of Reeetro who tells you ominously that something is going to happen but have no idea what? He states disbelievingly.

“Look eye know it sounds mad, but eye don't understand how Reeetro of all ponies could end up in jail. He's got a cleaner record than anypony here. It don't make no sense.” He states strapping a large sword onto his back.

“I have to agree with you on that.” Nebula ponders, tapping his chin. “But of all the times for him to claim a threat is had to be today?” He sighs. “Princess Celestia is going to be furious if I don't show up tomorrow.” He huffs.

“Why? What's so important about tomorrow?” Firecraft asks, pulling sheild out from a box in the corner of his room before also strapping it onto his back.

“Um..... The wedding?” Nebula states obviously.

“What wedding?” Firecraft looks towards with with confusion.

“Shining Armours and Princess Cadance's wedding?” He states worriedly.

“Shining and what?! When the fuck did that happen?” He yells, surprised at the information.

“About six months ago?” Nebula tilts his head, straightening his glasses. “Everypony in the castle received an invitation.” He glances around the room. Taking note of the mess, he walks over towards an unopened pile of letters on a chair in the corner, flicking through them with his magic before releasing a hum as he find what he's looking for.

“See?” He states disapprovingly. Showing Firecraft the sealed letter, he's obviously neglected reading.

“Eye, fuck me am useless.” He mumbles. “Doesn't matter, this is more important.” He says pulling a helmet off a mannequin and placing it on his head.

“Indeed.” Nebula hums.

“Look we need ta go now, I've got a bad feeling about this.” He states rushing out the door and begins galloping towards the castle, towards the entrance to the catacombs.

“So do I.” Nebula whispers, shaking his head, before following after Firecraft.

….........................................................................................................................

In the faint glow of candle light, in a tower high above. The faint smirking lips of a Pink Alicorn can be made out. Watching as one large red stallion and one small purple one gallop across the large open field leading towards the castle.

“What do you want us to do?” The sound of two hissing voices can be heard.

The lips curl up into a smile, fangs emerging.

“Follow them.” The lips say before breaking out into a cackle.

Come Back, I Still Need You.

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“Ughh my head...” The voice of a mare can be heard. “I think I'm gonna be sick.” She says rubbing her head with a hoof. She blinks her eyes slowly as she gazes around at the stone walls running high into the ceiling. She notices a green, cocoon like structure hanging from the top.

She looks down to notice she's sitting in a puddle of slime like substance.

“What in the hay-” She asks to empty room, shaking her hoof to get rid of the gross residue. A shuffling sound behind her causes her to freeze. She turns around slowly, her eyes going wide at the site of a black and grey stallion, covered in the same green slime, with his back turned, groaning silently on the floor.

“Reaper!” The voice calls. She pulls herself up slowly staggering towards the the stallion on the floor. She falls on top of him, using her hooves and wings to pull him over, the slime causing her to slip several times, She stays determined, using all her might, she manages to pull Reaper onto his back, grunting as she does so.

She looks into the closed eyes, gently tapping him.

“Reaper.” She pleads. “It's me, Spark, wake up, please.” Spark begs.

Slowly the stallions eyes flutter open, holding an unfocused gaze, before nodding and closing them again.

“No, no, no.” Spark says with panic. “Ya need to stay awake, come on big guy.” She grunts, pulling Reaper into a sitting poison.

“Alright, we need to find a way out of here.” She says quickly, looking around the cave walls, scanning for an exit. She feels a tap on her shoulder, she looks down towards Reaper who's just staring ahead.

“What? What is it?” She asks franticly. He raises a hoof weakly, pointing straight ahead. She follows his gaze as her eyes freeze in shock.

A large green gem on the wall displays the image of weak, tattered looking pink pony, tears falling from her eyes into the stone below.

“Princess...........” Spark whispers in disbelief. “Princess Cadance!” She cries.

She watches, as the ponies ears prick up and she slowly turns her head towards the gem. He eyes go wide in shock as her muzzle breaks out into a weak smile.

“Spark! Reaper!” Cadance cries.

…..................................................................................................................................

Celestia wore a sorrowful expression as she gazed down at the events below her.

Ponies bustling to get decorations up, florists rushing to and from flowers sets to ensure their perfection and hoof-maidens and butler-colts rushing to set up tables and silver ware in a frantic manor. All preparing for one things.

Cadance's and Shining's wedding.

It should be a happy occasion.

So why does Celestia feel so racked with guilt?

Maybe because in the last two years she'd lost so much. Three of her most loyal subjects, the trust of her most faithful student, the closeness she once had with Cadance.

Her thoughts lingers on, as she stares emptily towards the scene below her, watching as it grows ever more busy. She barley registers a wing being placed softly on her shoulder.

“Sister?” A voice calls, causing her to jump. Her head spins around as she glances down towards the worried face of her sister, Luna.

“Art thou alright?” Luna asks, voice filled with worry. Celestia just nods her head, offering a weak smile.

“I am fine, do not worry.” She continues to give a weak smile. Luna furrows her brows, not looking convinced. She continues to hold her wing to her sister, looking into her eyes.

“Does not feel that way.” She gives her, her own weak smile. “Since my return my powers have slowly been coming back to me, but we cannot read minds dear sister. Pray tell? What has you so distraught?” Luna begs. Watching as her sister lowers head in defeat.

“I'm worried about tomorrow.” She says glumly.

“For our nieces and her suitors wedding?” Luna flicks her ear as Celestia just nods. “But tis a joyce occasion. We thought you would be overwhelmed over such a monumental feat.” Luna watches as her sister takes a deep breath.

“I am.” Celestia mumbles, watching the chaos continue below.

“Does not seem like it.” Luna states softly, looking down towards her sisters exhausted expression.

“I don't know Luna. I just don't feel right about everything that's happened.” She lifts her head, turning towards her sister with a pained expression.

“Spending this last century without you has been a struggle all on it's own, but the past two decades have been exceptionally hard.” She says, tears filling her eyes.

“Because of young Twilight?” Luna offers, Celestia just nods her head.

“I destroyed her trust in me. Watched as Cadance fell into a darkness I couldn't pull her out of, and betrayed three ponies that cared so deeply for her. Discarded them like they were nothing.” She chokes as a lone tear falls free.

“I feel so lost. Everything about this feels wrong but I can't find it in my heart to question it, when things are finally starting to return to normal.” She sniffles, as Luna pulls her in for a hug.

“Don't cry dear sister.” Luna soothes, as she rubs Celestia's back with her wings.

“What do I do Luna? Celestia begs through tears.

“We are not sure dear sister.” Luna admits. “We haven't had the privilege of watching Twilight and Cadance grow as you have. We can not question the actions of these ponies you speak so remorsefully of, but if this truly bothers you. Perhaps a word with our niece is what will clear your doubt?” Luna suggests, leaning back to wipe the tears from her sister eyes, watching the tired teal orbs. Celestia nods, releasing a huff.

“Perhaps you are right Luna.” Celestia concedes, walking off towards Cadance's chambers.

….........................................................................................................................

“Princess, are you okay?!” Spark yells towards the green gem. She struggles to stand but manages, slipping slightly on the slime, limping towards the wall placing a hoof on the gem, testing it's realness. Cadance just shakes her head.

“No, what's going on! Where is everypony?!” Cadance pleads. Spark just gazes painfully.

“I don't know princess! The last we saw of anypony Celestia had branded us as traitors!” Spark shakes her head in anger at the memory, tears begin to well in her eyes.

“What?” Cadance breathes, ears falling flat against her head. Spark just gazes at her, pleading.

“Please princess, tell me that wasn't you?” She begs. Cadance just shakes her head, digging her hooves into the ground trying to pull herself closer to the gem.

“It wasn't me Spark, it's Queen Chrysalis. She's a changeling. She's taken my place to try and drain all the love from everypony in the castle and to overthrow Equestria.” She shakes her head, hoping that Spark believes her.

“I thought so.” Spark mumbles looking around the cave. “She attacked Reaper when he realised that you weren't yourself and threw him in jail. I broke him out and Celestia branded us as traitors. We ran for months to regroup but they caught us. We failed you.” Spark closes her eyes in pain, hitting her hoof to the gem, causing it to ring out to the empty cave.

“No Spark. I failed you.” Cadance tears up. “If I hadn't been so weak, maybe, I could of stopped this.” Cadance digs her hoof into the soil below.

“You never failed us, Cadance.” Spark gives her a grateful look and a weak smile, before groaning and falling to the floor. Cadance's ear shoot up, a fearful look on her face.

“Spark! Are you okay?!” Cadance calls. Spark just nods weakly, eyes closed.

“I'm fine.” She huffs. “I'm just weak, like all of my energies been zapped.” She groans, cracking open an eye and looking towards Cadance.

“We need to find a way out of here.” She says firmly, forcing herself to stand.

“It's useless.” Cadance shakes her head, as tears fall from her eyes. “I have no strength. I haven't been able to use my magic down here.” She cries. “We're trapped.” She says helplessly.

“There's always a way.” Spark grunts walking weakly towards a wall, trying to push a stone loose.

“Spark stop, it's useless.” Cadance begs, watching the pegasuses weak attempts to escape.

“I'd listen to her if I were you.” A menacing voice echoes throughout the cave, causing all three ponies to freeze.

…..........................................................................................................................

Celestia takes a deep breath before knocking on Cadance's chamber door.

“Come in!” A voice chirps from within. Celestia takes another steady breath before stepping inside, shutting the door behind her.

She's greeted by the sight of Cadance standing in front of her mirror, holding up her wedding dress and humming to herself. Her eyes go wide as she notices Celestia through her mirror.

“Auntie!” She smiles brightly, turning around. “Doesn't this dress just look beautiful?” Cadance twirls in a circle, hugging the dress to her chest. Celestia gives her a weary smile.

“It does.” She says softy. Cadance stops spinning, turning to give a worried look to Celestia.

“You don't like it, do you?” She pouts, ears falling in hurt. Celestia shakes her head softly.

“I do.” She gives her a stronger smile. “I just came here to check up on you, make sure you weren't getting cold hooves.” She takes a small step forward, watching her expressions. Cadance bites her lip and looks towards the ground with a worried look.

“I thought I was.” She stares aimlessly at the carpet. “But I've spent so long being unsure, so long dwelling in the past, that I never thought I could ever be happy again, but I am.” She lifts her head to give Celestia a hopeful smile. “I think- I think come tomorrow. I'll finally be able to let go.” She says as tears fill her eyes.

Celestia just looks on, watching her nieces eyes. Watching how hopeful they seem. For the first time, in a long time. She looks truly happy. Can she really force herself to destroy that? Bring up old wounds that could send her spiralling back down? She watches her hopeful expression and realises she can't.

She can't bring herself to do it.

So she doesn't.

She lowers her head, holding back tears. She lifts her head offering her a genuine smile.

“Then I'll see you tomorrow.” She says warmly, watching as Cadance smiles brightly, picking up her dress and continuing to twirl. Celestia turns around and heads out the door, shutting it behind her.

She stands outside the room, closing her eyes and taking a deep breath.

She opens them, gaze determined and proceeds to walk down the hall to her own chambers.

Cadance was happy. That was all that mattered.

….............................................................................................................................

“Spark stop, it's useless.” Cadance begs, watching the pegasus's weak attempts to escape.

“I'd listen to her if I were you.” A menacing voice echoes throughout the cave, causing all three ponies to freeze.

The cave begins to light up, as several green gems start glowing around the walls, projecting Chrysalis real face. Cadance looks around in horror, while Spark and Reaper attempt to get into a battle stance but failing.

“Oh, save your strength.” Chrysalis taunts. “You're no threat to me in this state.” She leans in, her fangs shimmering with a green venom.

“Come say that to my face coward!” Spark challenges, despite closing one eye in pain.

“I must say, I'm impressed.” Chrysalis muses. “Not only did you two see through my guise. You're also still managing to stand after being drained in my cocoons for over a year. Well done.” Chrysalis slowly claps, is mock praise.

“A year? Drained?” Spark questions in shock, finally falling to the floor grunting.

“Yes. You see, extracting the love from a pony though bite does well to feed us for a couple of days, but extracting it through a cocoon allows us to gather ten times as much and it can be transported. The cocoons can keep ponies for as long as they have love in their hearts, so you two must really care for someponies ” She cackles through the gems. “ You've done a fine job of giving us a few weeks worth of love.” She grins.

“So take it and leave.” Spark seethes through gritted teeth.

“Oh my poor, little, pony.” Chrysalis lowers her ears, shaking her head in a pout. “One pony cocoon, is the equivalent to four weeks of food.” She leans in closer. “Per, changeling.” All three ponies eyes go wide, as Chrysalis continues. “All you've done is ensure that two of them don't starve in the coming month. No, I need something.” She taps her chin before giving an evil grin. “A little more substantial, like, an entire kingdom perhaps.” She says releasing a cackle.

“So take us, and let the princess go!” Spark pleads, already knowing it will go in vain.

“And what do you have to offer, huh?” Chrysalis tilts her head in questioning. “My cocoons have already sucked you dry, and it will be weeks before you can be harvested again.” She chuckles.

“Then why keep us alive?” Spark asks with a defiant voice.

“Because once I take control of this kingdom. I'm going to need what you call, cattle.” She chuckles. Spark just releases a growl.

“Save that energy. I'll be back to take it soon enough.” Chrysalis smirks. “But right now, I have a wedding to plan.” She gives the ponies a farewell wave. “Ta-ta.” She says before all the lights of the gems, baring Cadance's go out.

“Wedding?” Spark asks confused. She turns towards Cadance, worry etched onto her face, before asking; “Cadance? What wedding?”

She watches in terror as Cadance just screams.

Let Me Take Your Hoof, I'll Make It Right.

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'It doesn't makes sense.' Twilight thinks as she stares emptily out the train window watching the trees and sky fly past.

Ever since she had spoke to Celestia, she had almost removed herself from her life completely. Only writing to her friendship reports, and nothing else. She needed to clear her head. She'd drown herself in her new friends, her hundreds of books. Just trying to make sense of all these emotions.

She wasn't sure what to think to be honest. She could understand why Celestia had done what she had done.

After saving her friends and all of Equestria from Discord, after marching to Canterlot, demanding answers from Celestia. She ended up locking herself away for month, reliving those horrid memories over and over again.

She woke up in colds sweat, clutching at the burning feeling in her side. Looking down to find nothing. She'd wince sitting down on a chair and grimacing at the memory of that young colt touching her. She'd suddenly hyperventilate as her lungs contracted feeling like her chest was being kicked in. The event had long since passed, but the memories were fresh.

Looking back, maybe Celestia had done the right thing. What kind of mare would she have turned into if she had kept her memories? Would she be even more secluded and reserved than she already was? Would she have refused to oversee the 'Summer Sun Celebration?' meaning she would of never met her friends? Never stopped Nightmare Moon?

Did her lack of knowing save Equestria?

She shakes her head at the thought. 'Maybe it had been the best thing to do, but it was still wrong.' She reflects. Her thoughts drift back to the castle. Thinking how everything made so much sense now. She wonders how they had all dealt with it.

How they'd all managed to keep it hidden and not break down. She chuckles at the thought.

No. They had broken down. Celestia was watchful. Cadance was broken and Shining couldn't look her in the eye for too long.

She hadn't really spoken to her brother since she left. She was sad at the thought. Wishing she'd spent more time trying to help him, but she hadn't.

And now he was marrying somepony that she didn't even know. In only a couple of years he'd found somepony to replace her, but she could understand. They used to tell each other everything, but obviously this was something he couldn't tell her. Something he could never tell her.

How do you look into your baby sisters eyes and tell her she was sexually assaulted and physically beaten when she was four and had her memories erased? You can't. You don't.

It made sense why he would choose to seek comfort in another, but who was this 'Mi Amore Cadenza?' She thinks before her thoughts are interrupted.

“Why the long face sugarcube?” She hears the worried sound of Applejack's voice behind her.

“I'm just thinking about Shining Armour.” She half lies. Truth be told she was thinking about all of them.

“Ever since I moved to pony ville, we've been seeing each other less and less, and now that he's starting a new family with this princess Mi Amore Cal-what's her name. We'll probably never see each other.” She huff resting her chin on the windowsill, looking out towards the moving landscape.
“Come on now, you're his sister, he'll always have time for you.” Applejack says in sweet voice trying to reassure her. Twilight can feel her hairs stand on end in jealously.

“Couldn't seem to make time to tell me he was getting married.” She says in a bitter voice before shutting the blind and curling up on the seat. She waited, listening to Applejacks hoof steps disappear to the end of the carriage.

Twilight blinked the away the tears in her eyes. She couldn't stop thinking. Thinking about Celestia, about Shining, about Cadance.

Especially Cadance.

She nudged her head into the seat, willing the thoughts to go away, as she forced herself into a fitful sleep. She'd be in Canterlot soon.

Hopefully, she'd find more answers.

…................................................................................................................................................

Cadance.
It had been Cadance all along.

How could she be so stupid.

'Princess Mi Amore Cadenza, it was so obvious!' Twilight's mind screams.

Shining was marrying Cadance. Twilight couldn't help the sinking feeling in her stomach. Couldn't stop the spikes of jealousy rushing through her heart.

Twilight shook her head, wishing the thoughts away. She thought back to her youth. To the days where her and Cadance were rebuilding their friendship. She'd watched as Cadance would give her a weak smile, look at her with sad eyes. She knew she was hiding something, but it never felt wrong.
Cadance had always looked at her with such pure love and devotion. That it made the secrets feel like second nature. Cadance was always kind, loving and caring, even when she looked like she was in so much pain.

That's probably why, it was so easy to fall in love with her.

Twilight had been shocked at first, blamed it on curiosity. But as the years went past it felt more like truth everyday. Every moment they spent together felt like specs of gold in an hourglass of sand. She always felt so loved, so cared for, so happy. She'd realised that she wanted to do the same for Cadance. So she studied psychology, read as many romance novels as she could get her hooves on and waited for Cadance to confide in her. She knew she was young and she knew that nothing would probably ever come of it. She was sure that it would go away.

But when she found out her and Shining were engaged?

It brought all of those feelings back to the surface. She could feel the million things she wanted to say bubble in her throat like bile. She bit it down, gritting her teeth at the sour taste. She couldn't do this now. Not when, in twenty four hours time, when she would marrying her brother.

But something seemed wrong. Cadance was acting like she didn't know her. She'd dismissed her like like she was nothing. Celestia had made her out to be this broken mess, her last memoires of Cadance were a pained look and weak smile.

Why now, was she suddenly holding her head high?

Why did she look at Twilight with such a hollow gaze?

It didn't make sense, none of it did.

And Twilight was determined to find out why.

…........................................................................................................................

“Which way do we go now?” Firecraft swifly moves a torch around, looking between three tunnels in the cave. They'd been down here for hours, without any success. Time was running out.

“Um.....I think the left one?” Nebula squints at map turning it upside down.

“Ya think? Or ya know?” Firecraft gives him an annoyed look, watching Nebula continue to fiddle with the piece of paper.

“I think.” Nebula sighs. “I study magical history and spell incantations, I'm not a navigator.” He states in frustration. Seemly lost to the map before him. He takes a couple steps forward before Firecraft holdd out his hoof, stopping him.

“Hold up a sec.” Firecraft says, turning around, listening to the faint sound of buzzing coming from the end of the tunnel.

“What is it?” Nebula gulps. “Do you see something?” He asks, following Firecrafts gaze. They both just stare into the darkness for a long moment. Holding their breaths. The buzzing gets louder as Firecraft squint even more. His eyes widen in shock at the sight. He turns around quickly shoving Nebula ahead of him.

“Move yer ass, now!” He screams before bolting off towards the left tunnel.

“Why?! What is it?!”Nebula asks franticly, daring to glance back. His eyes go wide in shock as he notices the six black bug like creatures head straight towards them. “Firecraft what the hay is going on?!” He screams, picking up the pace. “What are changeling's doing in the castle!?” He begs, turning his attention to the galloping stallion next to him.

“Eye've no idea, but I guess Reeetro was right!” He turns towards Nebula, a smile on his face.

“I didn't think he meant an invasion!” Nebula panics, not understanding Firecrafts reaction.

“Eye, a hope you're good with that magik of yours!” He chides before running towards a wall, jumping against it, and rebounding back towards the incoming threat.

“Firecraft!” Nebula screams, skidding to a halt, before beginning to charge up a protection spell.

“Because the battle for the kingdom has begun!” Firecrafty roars, drawing his sword ready to fight to the death.

…....................................................................................................................................

Twilight groaned.

She clutched her head in pain and shivered as a cold rush of wind ran through her. She dug her hoof into the ground, feeling the hard surface, before charging her horn up to admit a soft purple light. She took a took around noticing the large barren caves before daring to call out.

“Hello?” She called out. Feeling unease settle into her stomach. She forced herself onto her hooves, staining at the ache in her body. She began walking down one of the tunnels, determined to find a way out.

“It was so obvious.” She muttered to herself in disbelief. “I knew that couldn't of been Cadance.” She thinks out loud, shining her horn down the ever darkening tunnels.

“Her smile was so fake.” Twilight shakes her head, willing tears to go away. Remembering the green ring of fire and then, nothing.

“Why?” Twilight whispers as she stops to take a breath. “Why did no pony believe me?” She says blinking rapidly, clenching her eyes shut at the thought of her friends betrayal.

“No.” She whispers. “You can't give up.” She huffs, putting on a determined face. “I need to find a way out of here.” She looks around the cave walls, hope they'd provide the answer. At no sigh of light she continued walking forward. Calling out again.

“Hello?” Her voice ring through the gave. No answer.

“Is anypony there?” She asks, her voice echoing off the walls.

She looks around worriedly before colliding head first into a wall. Shaking her head she's startled at her own reflection. She gazes for a moment before the sound of cackling causes her to back away in fear.

“Where am I?” She asks before a green shimmer causes her to quickly shut her eyes, as a voice begins to taunt.

“The catacombs beneath Canterlot. A final resting place for those ponies who gave their lives for there kingdom.” The hollow voice states, turning around Twilight notices the evil face of Cadance. “And now, your prison.” She chuckles.

“Help! Help!” Twilight calls running off towards the other end of the cave.

“Ha ha, it's no use.” Cadance taunts. “Nopony can hear you, and nopony will ever think to look for you either.” Cadance laughs. Twilight looks on in horror, as her face shifts from gem to gem. “Most ponies have forgotten these caves even exist, which is why they are the ideal place to keep the ones who try to interfere with my plans.” Cadance smiles wickedly down towards Twilight before erupting into a heavy laughter.

“Plans? What plans?” Twilight asks with terror in her heart.

“The plans I have for your kingdom of course.” She smirks. “I must say, I'm a little disappointed that your the cause for all of Cadance's pain. So pathetic.” She chuckles.

Twilight's eyes go wide, before her face morphs in to an angry expression. She steps forward puffing her chest out, her horn charging with a purple aura.

“What have you done to her!” She spits angrily, charging up a spell. Cadance's eyes go wide as a smirk erupts on her face.

“Catch me to find out.” She chuckles before fading from the gem. Causing Twilight to see reflections.

She turned around with an angry expression. Watching as Cadance reappeared on a gem, the other side of the room. Twilight charged a spell, shooting it off towards the gem causing it reflect and bounce around the room, her narrowly dodging it.

She begins to charge up several other spells, firing them off, one by one towards the gems that Cadance appeared on. Shattering them to pieces. Until she charged a large spell, blasting it off towards the wall, demolishing it entirely. She waited for the rubble to disperse before her eyes widened in shock at the sight.

A tattered pink mare was gazing back at her tears burning in her eyes.

“Cadance....” Twilight whispered in disbelief.

“Twlight....” Cadance looked on in both relief and horror.

I Swear To Love You, All My Life.

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“Cadance!” Twilight screams with joy as she rushes over, tackling the mare into a hug. “You're alive.” She cries with tears of joy, clutching the mare tighter, nuzzling into her. Cadance just nuzzles back, breathing in her scent. 'Oh how she'd missed her.' She chokes out a sob.

Twilight pulls back watching the pained expression on her face before a voice interrupts them.

“Miss Twilight!” Twilight looks over in shock to notice Sergeant Spark looking at her through a green gem.

“Spark!” She calls. Noticing Reaper sitting on the ground behind her, one eye closed in pain, but he was smiling gratefully towards her. “Reaper!” She calls with joy. “Are you okay?!” She asks, watching as the mare nods her head.

“We are fine, you need to take Cadance and get out of here! Stop Chrysalis!” She calls. Cadance just shakes her head refusing.

“No, what about you?!” She pleads, terrified at the thought of leaving them here.

“We'll be fine!” Spark yells, turning to look at Reaper who merely nods. “We'll find a way out, go, now!” She begs before the gem suddenly goes dark.

Twilight watches with panic before looking back towards Cadance. Noting how weak she looks.

“We need to go, can you stand?” She asks, Cadance just nods, before grunting and struggling to her hooves. Twilight helps her up before they both run off down one of the tunnels.

“We have to stop her!” Twilight yells, preparing to enter the fray, once again.

…............................................................................................................................

“Piss off ya pest.” Firecraft yells before turning to smash the hilt of his sword into the side of a changeling's head, knocking it out cold. He looks on in amazement and releases a triumphant call as five changeling's lay on the floor before him.

“Eye, take that ya bastards!” Firecraft cheers before turning back towards Nebula who's visibly shaking. “Mighty fine aim you've got there.” Firecraft grins, watching the horrid expression form on Nebula's face.

“I missed twenty times!” He cries, still shaken.

“Eye, but ya tried.” He smirks, as Nebula just shakes his head.

“We need to get out of here. There's probably more that are going to come.” He stops shaking, steadying his nerves, before fixing his glasses.

“Not witout Spark.” He gives him a stern glare. Nebula looks up pleading.

“Firecraft! We don't even know if they're down here! This could of been a trap for all we know.” Nebula pleads.

“Reeetro woudnt do that.” He gives him a glare before strutting past him to continue his journey into the caves.

“I know he wouldn't.” Nebula concedes. “But we have no idea what's going on? We need to get reinforcements!” He begs, hoping the fire maned stallion would see reason.

“How do we know the castle ain't already been overrun!” He shoots back. “Spark and Reaper are good fighters. If'n anything, we're gonna need all the elp we can get.” He huffs continuing to walk.

“Assuming their alive?” Nebula says in a worried tone. “And even if they are, how are we going to find them? It's not like they'll magically appear-” Nebula gets interrupted by Firecraft shoving him out the way, brandishing his sword. As a changeling jumps out from the shadows, slamming into Firecraft, pushing him back against the wall.

“A lit'le help!” Firecraft grunts holding back the hungry changeling's fangs with his blade.

Nebula panics before charging a spell and firing it with his eyes closed towards the two. It hits the the changeling's back before exploding, sending Firecraft smashing through the cave wall.

He lands with a grunt, eyes closed in pain.

“Fuk me, that hurt.” He groans. He freezes at the sound of a female voice calling.

“Firecraft!” He opens his eyes, staring ahead as his vision focuses, where they land upon a teary eye filled Spark.

He smiles, groaning as he shifts round to look at her properly.

“Well aren't you a sight fer sore eyes.” He smiles.

…................................................................................................................................

Celestia looks on with a sad smile, watching all the ponies with big grins on their faces, shuffling their hooves in excitement. She wants to be happy, but she can't help the pang of guilt residing in her heart.

'They should be here.' She thinks looking across to the empty seats. 'They should all be here.' She sniffs forcing the tears to remain.

She takes a deep breath before speaking.

“Princess Cadance and Shining Armour, it is my great pleasure to pronouce you-” Celestia's eyes fling open as the doors to the wedding hall fly open.

“Stop!” A voice calls out. Celestia stares is shock as Twilight begins to trot down the carpet way.

“Why does she have to ruin my special day.” Cadance cries. Celestia gives her niece a worried glance before turning her attention back towards Twilight.

“Because you're an imposter.” The sound of a weak voice can be heard. Celestia's eyes go wide as the entire room gasps, as a small, weak, pink Alicorn limps into the room.

Celestia feels her eyes shrink to the size of pin pricks as she gapes at the sight before her.

“How did you escape!” Celestia's head turns to quickly watch the burning gaze of Cadance bore through the two.

“It's over Chrysalis!” Twilight yells taking on a defensive stance.

Celestia watches with horror as Cadance begins to cackle.

“We'll see about that.” She states, before erupting into a flash of green fire. Celestia's blinded momentarily before blinding rapidly. She opens her eyes to the horror before her. The large black creature with dripping fangs. Her eyes widen in remorse.

'I've been such a fool.' She thinks, watching as the creature takes a step towards her student and niece.

“I must say my little ponies, I'm impressed.” Chrysalis chuckles. “I never once thought you'd be able to escape that god forsaken place, but it seems I was mistaken.” She stops just in front of Twilight. Celestia can only look on is despair, unable to do anything.

“But you're far too late.” Chrysalis hisses. “Shining Armour has provided me with more than enough love to overthrow your entire kingdom! You have failed!” Chrysalis laugh echoes through the room.

“Not yet you haven't!” Twilight yells before charging up a spell. Celestia watches in horror as Twilight fires a spell the chrysalis easily deflect. Sending it flying out the window, smashing the glass. Before turn back towards Twilight.

“Nice try.” She chuckles before turning around and crouching. “But not good enough.” She growls before kicking out her back legs, straight into Twilight, sending her flying.

“Twilight!” She hears Cadance call rushing over towards her. “Are you okay?” She asks worriedly. Twilight groans, nodding, eyes clenched in pain before cracking one open to look at Chrysalis who merely cackles.

“Equestria's greatest hope....” She taunts. “Ready to die.” She begins charging up her horn.

“NO!” Celestia booms. Chrysalis turns her attention towards the monarch. Celestia begins to step forward, seething with anger, eyes brimming with tears.

“I will not let you take anything else!” She cries, charging up her horn. Chrysalis just laughs.

“Oh, poor Celestia. They're already gone. You gave them to me, traded them away for a little comfort!” She laughs charging up her own horn. “You betrayed them! You've lost!” She says firing a jet of green towards Celestia.

“I haven't lost yet.” She seethes before firing a spell of her own.

The room gasps as the two beams clash, watches in terror as the green beam of magic gains the upper hoof, and hope is lost, as it reaches Celestia's horn. Her tiara flying off of her head as she crashes to the floor.

“Princess Celestia!” Twilight screams.

Celestia's eyes flicker open, as she shift her head painfully towards a triumphant Chrysalis.

“Game over.” She begins laughing evilly. Celestia stares to steal a glance from the end of the hall. Watches as Twilight and Cadance stare at her in horror.

“I'm sorry Cadance.” She whispers, tears falling from her eyes.

The sound of laughing echoes through the room.

The war was lost.

Hold On, I Still Need You.

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“Which is the way out!” Spark yells down one of the tunnels.

“I don't know!” Nebula screams, frustrated at the confusion map in his magical grasp.

“Try left!” Firecraft yells before all of them skid to make the diversion.

They stop dead in their tracks at the site before them.

As dozens of changeling's surround the exit to the catacombs, all wearing hungry expressions and hissing.

The quartet stared in shock at the sight before them, offering each other weak glances.

“What do we do?” Nebula looks towards Firecraft, hopelessness painted onto his face.

Firecraft simply huffs, taking a step forward, and drawing his sword.

“We fight to the end.” He says mournfully, before charging. Spark turns towards Reaper, offering him a broken smile.

“It's been an honnor Reaper.” She says, a single tear falling free. He gives her a solemn look and nods. They both gain a look of determination before charging.

Nebula simply closes his eyes, taking a deep breath.

“Celestia have mercy.” He breathes before charging his horn and running with his fellow friends towards their doom.

….......................................................................................................................................

The sound of a door being slammed wide open causes Reeetro to jump in his cell.

He watches as several changeling's barge into the dungeon and begin stalking towards him. He gives them a defiant look before closing his eyes.

“Cadance be safe.” He pleads, as the hissing gets closer.

…...............................................................................................................................

“Now that the pests have been taken care of.” Chrysalis hisses. Stomping away from a floored Celestia and towards an injured Twilight.

“Let's move on the the main course.” Chrysalis taunts, before Cadance steps in front of her.

“You will not touch her!” She cries, eyes filled with passion. Chrysalis just laughs.

“And what are you going to do about it, little pony!” She hisses. “You're weak, you have no strength left! What makes you think that you can defy me!” She towers above Cadance prepared to send the small pony to her grave.

Cadance stares at her eyes filled with pure passion.

“Because I love her.” She says firmly. Earning several gasps from the entire room, including Celestia.

“And you will not hurt her, ever again.” Her eyes begin to glow a bright white, her horn admitting a powerful glow. Chrysalis watches in terror as Cadance's whole body erupts in a giant flash.

Sending her and all the changeling's, hurtling towards the horizon.

…...................................................................................................................................

Firecraft prepares to sling down his weapon before a loud booming sound echos through the caves. He watches in confusion as the several dozen changeling's fly are throw back towards the exit, disappearing entirely.

“What?” Nebula breathes confused. “What happened?” He looks towards Spark and Reaper who have the same confused expressions. Firecraft just breaks out into a smile.

“Eye....... Eye think we just won?” He feels a tear in his eye.

The four of them cry out in glee.

….................................................................................................................................

Reeetro sits defiantly as the hissing gets closer. Prepared to meet his end.

His eyes fling open at the sudden noise, he watches as all of the changeling's are blasted through the walls, out of the castle.

He looks on in bewilderment. A smile smile quickly adorns his face.

The battle was over.

The war had been won.

….........................................................................................................................

Princess Luna was sound asleep until the large bang had woke her up. She looked outside groggily, watching as a pink shield flew through the sky.

She grumbled in confusion before slamming her head back towards her pillow, falling asleep instantly.

….....................................................................................................................

Cadance collapses onto the tiled floor, huffing heavily.

“Cadance!” She hears Twilight cal;, as she rushes towards her. Cadance just flinches, recoiling as Twilight puts a hoof on her shoulder.

“Don't.” She begs. “Please.” She whispers, tears falling from her eyes as she forces herself to stand, wobbling as she does so.

“Cadance..........” Twilight recoils. Ears falling flat against her head in hurt.

Cadance backs away. Slowly edging herself out of the room. Glancing between the hurt expressions of Shining, Celestia and Twilight. Her gazes lingers on Twilight, gazing deeply into her violet eyes.

“I'm sorry.....” She whispers, before turning around and bolting off into a run in the directions of her chambers.

“Cadance!” She hears the pleading voice of Twilight. Fade into the distance.

She ran, it was all she knew how to do anymore

….......................................................................................................................

“I'm sorry Twilight.” Cadance's face burns with shame.

“It that really the reason you stopped seeing me?” Twilight asks, voice full of hurt. Cadance just nods her head in sorrow.

“You were young, I couldn't.” Cadance dares to gaze towards her.

“I'm not young anymore.” She huffs. Cadance just chokes out a laugh.

“Compared to me you are.” She smiles brokenly. “I'm sorry I abandoned you, I thought, if I stayed away, then you'd find somepony else who could be there for you. Somepony that wasn't broken.” She looks towards the floor, before she feels a hoof placed gently under her chin. She breaths looking up, Twilight giving her a soft gaze.

“Yes Cadance, you are broken.” Twilight smiles. “But so am I.” She says with tearful eyes. “I've spent so long. So long wonder why I wasn't good enough. Wondering why everypony couldn't look me in the eye. I felt so alone, so abandoned, but I now see why.” She looks at Cadance with loving gaze.

“Everything you did was to protect me. Every time you looked at me I felt loved and cared for.” Her ear flicks. “Which is why I know.....” She gives her a determined look. “That I could never love anypony more than you.” She smiles brightly before leaning in for a kiss.

Cadance's eyes flutter shut as Twilight's lips connect with hers. She smiles, truly smiles.

Wrapping her arms around Twilight, as she leans into the kiss more.

She's never felt so whole. Never felt more love in her life, than right this second.

The need for air becomes apparent as they both separately, light panting. They give each other a loving smile. Purple and violet eyes gazing towards each other adoration.

“We'll heal Cadance, together.” Twilight smiles.

Cadance just nods. Leaning her horn against Twilight's.

A bright smile on her face. A heart once again filled with hope.

They sit like that for a while, basking in the moment of peace, that neither of them noticed the faint glow on Cadance's flank.

As the fractured heart, became whole once again.

Epilogue: A Paper Crown, And A Heart Made Of Glass

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Cadance was happy. Truly happy.

She'd thought a lot about the last three years, about everything that happened.

Things would never be the same. She knew that.

Everypony had been hurt after the incident with Queen Chrysalis, but they were healing.

Cadance remembered every one of them.

Remembered the look on Celestia's face when she'd come to her chambers. How she'd broken down and sobbed, apologizing, begging forgiveness. It had hurt. Cadance couldn't understand how she could have been so blind, couldn't understand how Celestia could have been so easily fooled, but she was patient. She learned to understand. Understand how after watching herself decline for years, how Celestia was so willing to believe the lie. She knew in her heart that Celestia had never been truly convinced. Knew that if she'd just looked hard enough, she would have seen through the mask.

But she also knew Celestia as a pony. A pony who had experienced war, famine, suffering, pain, betrayal and the countless loss of loved ones. A pony who had been through so much tragedy that it was easy to believe the lie.

When her subjects had lost all hope, she would have done anything to stop them from giving up. Just like she'd done for herself.

She remembered Shining. How they'd faced each other with tears in their eyes. They'd sat together for a long time in silence in the gardens.

A place that had once felt warm to both of them, had become a painful reminder of Chrysalis's deeds. That was how it had gone for weeks. They'd bump into each other in the gardens and sit in silence. Knowing that one day, they'd talk again. Shining had been the first to break the silence.

“So? Do I have to give you the big bro talk now that you're dating my little sister?” He'd asked with a goofy smile. Cadance just teared up, bursting out in laughter. Real laughter. Something she'd not felt for a long time.

They talked, and talked. Shining apologised for not being able to see it, but she forgave him. Cadance apologized for years of mind control, but he didn't blame her. They apologized and talked and sat in the gardens. Waiting, as the friendship and hope returned.

She remembered Reeetro. rushing to the dungeon to release him. He'd cried, praising the stars that she was safe. She went back onto medication for a while. Making sure to go see him three times a week. They'd have tea and talk.

For the first few months she could sense his bitterness. His anger towards Celestia. She had apologised. To everypony, but Reeetro could still feel the sting. He'd told her, that he didn't believe it, that it didn't make sense. He'd apologised profusely for not doing more. For hiding in the shadows like a coward. She simply smiled at him. Telling him that he'd done more than enough. He'd thanked her, and they continued to heal.

She remembered Firecraft and Nebula, how Reeetro had told her that they'd galloped off on a rescue mission, at the moments notice. She smiled at the thought, knowing that even when she'd been trapped down that cave for two years, Chrysalis taking over her life. That there were still ponies that had fought for her without question.

She remembered Reaper. Remembered the long recovery he'd had to go through. The several months on the run, little food and no sleep had been harsh enough. The fourteen months spent in Chrysalis's love cocoon, a near death sentence, but wearing the inhibitor ring for two years had caused severe damage to his horn. The restricting metal had caused fractures which had made his spells ineffective and caused pain for him when he tried to cast them. He had to go for intense therapy for a year before he was back to full strength.

The saddest thing was that he'd almost excepted it. Saying that he deserved it for what he'd done to those foals. Cadance had convinced him that he was wrong. That his years of loyal service, protecting their kingdom, nearly dying to prove her innocence was payment enough. He'd relented. Even going as far as to study with Twilight how to cast basic spells again. He'd told her what he'd done. She'd been shocked at first but she forgave him, knowing that he'd done it too protect her.

She remembered Spark. Remembered her, Firecraft, Nebula and Reaper stumbling out of the catacombs, collapsing to the floor in exhaustion. Remembered watching her sleep for an entire week, worried she might never wake up.

She had been the most hurt. She'd nearly resigned. Nearly. Cadance had watched her scream at Celestia, tears pouring down her face, the look of pain and betrayal burned in her eyes. She'd been so angry. Angry that Celestia had branded her a traitor. Celestia had apologised, over and over, cried hugging Spark to her chest. Cadance watched as Spark feebly swung her hooves at Celestia, but Celestia held on.

She'd disappeared for month. Not physically, but mentally. She'd took to night shifts, wanting to bask the isolation as she sorted out her thoughts. She came back. Her and Celestia had spoken long and hard. She'd forgiven her, and the two rekindled their friendship.

Cadance thought about a lot of things, but mostly?

She thought about Twilight.

She'd remembered her the most. All the years of pain and guilt that she'd felt because of her. All the late nights of talking about years they'd spent apart. All the adventures that she'd gone on with her friends. All the painful memories that brought tears to bother their eyes. The painful loneliness as Twilight would return to Ponyville to live with her friends.

She'd remembered the struggles, but she remembered all the love as well.

The excitement she would feel knowing that Twilight would be coming to spend the week with her. The peacefulness she felt when they would sit on the balcony and talk for hours on end. The amusement when she'd tried teaching Twilight how to sow, and blushes she received when she'd kiss her hoof after she'd pricked it. The joy when Twilight found a new book and they'd spend the night reading it together before falling asleep in each others hooves.

And the pure love and devotion in her eyes when she'd asked her to marry her. The overwhelming happiness when she'd said yes.

Cadance thought about her life. How much struggle and pain it had been filled with, but she knew. That with Twilight by he side, she could be strong.

Cadance stares into the mirrors, admiring the wedding dress that had been so delicately made. She smiles softly at the sight. A knock breaks her out of her thoughts.

“Come in.” She calls, as she begins fidgeting with the flower braid on her head.

“Cadance?” The soft voice of Celestia is heard as she steps into the room. “Are you ready?” She asks with a warm smile.

Cadance takes a deep breath before turning her attention away from the mirror towards Celestia giving her a faint nod and nervous smile.

…...........................................................................................................................

Cadance shuffled around nervously standing at the alter. Her eyes locked worriedly on the large doors at the end of the room. She began hyperventilating, taking quick, panicked breaths.

“Don't worry Cadance.” Cadance turns her attention towards her Auntie. “She'll be here.” Celestia gives her an encouraging smile. Cadance just nods, but it does little to squash the bubbling fear. Cadance's eyes glance back around, turning her attention to her left. She gives a sigh of relief and a warm smile at the sight of Reeetro, Spark, Firecraft, Shining and Reaper, all smiling at her with joy.

Her ears stand on end and her head shoots up at the sound of music beginning to play. She watches with hopeful eyes as the doors swing open and he breath hitches at the sight.

Twilight was wearing a white drape with red trimmings, her mane pulled up into a tight bun and circlet of red and white roses place on top of her head.

She was the most beautiful thing Cadance had ever seen.

She felt her heart swell with excitement as she watched Twilight walk down aisle with a bashful look on her face, hiding her smile with her bouquet. Cadance looked on in amazement as Celestia smiled proudly.

Firecraft leans down towards spark. “So?” He whispers. “When are you an me gonna tie the knot then?” He winks, watching as she turns her head towards him, giving him a playful glare.

“Never.” She says flatly, with a smirk on her lips. Firecraft just grins, lowering his head down towards her stomach, giving the obvious bump a nuzzle.

“An what does little one think?” He straightens up giving her a wink. She just rolls her eyes, shushing him. As Twilight reaches the alter.

“Fillies and Gentlecolts.” Celestia's voice begins. The room going quiet, before she continues. “We are gather here today, to join these two beautiful mares in matrimony.” She smiles looking towards Cadance.

“Cadance, do you take this mare to be your wife, to live together in matrimony, to love her, honour her, cherish her, in sickness and in health till death do you part?” She smiles.

“I do.” Cadance smiles warmly. Celestia turns to Twilight.

“Twilight, do you take this mare to be your wife, to live together in matrimony, to love her, honour her, cherish her, in sickness and in health till death do you part?” She watches as her student beams.

“I do.” Twilight says furiously nodding her head.

“Then by the power in vested in me, it is my great honour to pronounce you, wife and wife.” She beams proudly. “You may now kiss the bride.” The sounds of applause ripple through the room as both Twilight and Cadance lean in for a kiss.

“Go on lass!” Firecraft jeers causing Spark to kick him in the hind leg, making him wince. Celestia simply laughs, amused by the stallions antics.

The crowd keeps cheering, long into the night, as good drinks, food, music and company fill the warm spring evening.

Twilight and Cadance bask in the afterglow, opting to spend a few moments peace of together in the gardens before rushing away on their honeymoon.

They looked up towards the sky alive with stars and the faint glow of the moon. They gazed for a long time, feeling a sense of comfort wash over them.

They turned to look at each other, watching the love and happiness flicker like diamonds in there eyes.

Twilight gives Cadance a deep kiss before whispering.

“Think we have time?” She raises an eyebrow seductively towards her new wife who just smirks, nodding in return.

“Race you.” Cadance states before bolting up and running off in the direction of her chambers.

Celestia watches with a peaceful expression from her balcony, as the two newly wed mares bolt across the garden giggling and trying to out do one another.

Celestia hears the faint sound of her door opening and closing.

“Everything all right dear sister?” The soft voice of Luna could be heard.

“Yes Luna.” Celestia answers honestly. “All is well.” She smiles, staring off towards the night sky.

All was well.

EveryPony Breaks Like Glass

by OnTheTrot

Loving And Fighting. Accusing, Denying.

I Can't Imagine A World With You Gone.

The Joy And The Chaos, The Demons We're Made Of.

I'd Be So Lost If You Left Me Alone.

You Locked Yourself In Your Bedroom.

Lying On The Floor When I Break Through.

I Pull You In To Feel Your Heartbeat.

Can You Hear Me Screaming, "Please Don't Leave Me!"

Long Endless Flyways, You're Silent Beside Me.

Trapped In A Nightmare, I Can't Escape From.

Helplessly Praying, The Light Isn't Fading.

Hiding The Shock And The Chill In My Bones.

They Took You Away On A Table. (NSFW.)

I Pace Back And Forth As You Lay Still.

They Pull You In To Feel Your Heartbeat.

Can't You Hear Me Screaming, "Please Don't Leave Me!"

I Don't Wanna Let Go, I Know I'm Not That Strong.

I Just Wanna Hear You, Saying Baby, Let's Go Home.

Yeah Let's Go Home, I Just Wanna Take You Home.

Hold On, I Still Want You.

Come Back, I Still Need You.

Let Me Take Your Hoof, I'll Make It Right.

I Swear To Love You, All My Life.

Hold On, I Still Need You.

Epilogue: A Paper Crown, And A Heart Made Of Glass