“Cadance! You're home early,” Shining Armor said, a frown ceasing his features as he descended from his crystal throne to pull his wife into a hug, “Is everything alright with Twilight?”
“Oh, you know how it is. I just couldn't bear to be away from the baby for so long,” she said, returning the hug with a weary smile, “You understand, don't you dear?”
Shining chuckled and nodded. “I only hope that Twily does too.”
“She will some day, I'm sure. Sooner than her big brother would like, too.” She giggled at the sour expression that swept across his face, “So where is the little darling, anyway?”
“She’s in the nursery with her nannies. Sunburst just left for the day. I bet she will be happy to see you, why don't you head over? I'll look after court for the rest of the day.”
“Don't mind if I do,” Cadance said, taking a hesitant step towards one of the side hallways. She’d hardly moved before a great commotion erupted just outside the doors of the great hall.
“Changelings! Hundreds of them!” A guard bellowed between heavy pants, having clearly run without pause from his post, “Attacking the city!”
The throne room suddenly exploded into activity as petitioners cried out in fear, and guards leapt into action. They had been trained for this, and Shining Armor took charge, shouting orders in a voice that brooked no argument. “You, go to the armory, get my armor. You, go to the barracks, I want every guard at the ready,” his voice softened as he turned to his wife, “Can you check on Flurry?”
“I will, don't worry.” Shining Armor paused to share a brief kiss, before darting off to oversee his troops. As he left, Cadance set off at a cheery trot, deeper into the castle to find the nursery.