Prologue

“Company…attenshun!”

Captain Shining Armor gazed at the neat rows of armor cladded ponies, inspecting them one by one as his eyes meticulously passed each pony. Stoic, responsive, and alert looking, the recruits gathered in front of him were an impressive sight. If only all recruits were as easy to train as them… Shining Armor thought. They were only a week into training, yet they snap into attention as if they had been in service of the Royal Guard for years.

Trotting down the line of recruits, Shining Armor was joined by Lieutenant Silver Shield, who proudly trotted beside him.

“Well-drilled aren’t they?” Silver Shield asked. “These fellows over here, they learn fast. You tell them to do one thing and next thing you know they’ve already mastered it. It’s as if they were born to be members of the Royal Guard.”

Grinning at the thought, Shining Armor gently nodded his head, knowing that it was partly true. Most of the recruits who joined the Royal Guard had some kind of talent that linked them to military life. Gifted with a cutie mark that represented some form of honor, duty, or courage, these ponies often find no better profession than the noble guard of Equestrian royalty. With talents that only seem to benefit and flourish in the Royal Guard, it was an obvious choice to these ponies on what career they should choose.

And to the ponies who were gathered here today, many could say that they made the right one. Watching them as they passed by, Shining Armor couldn’t help but remember the days where he and Silver Shield were in those recruit’s place, standing at attention as their commanding officer inspected them under the burning heat of the parade ground. To say that he wasn’t nervous during those times would mark him as a liar, because despite the fact his cutie mark told him that this was the place where he was supposed to be, the chances of making a mistake still lingered in his mind.

If you were a new recruit in the guard there was always this fear of failing, the feeling of disgracing not only yourself but those around you. Shining Armor had learned that as a recruit and knowing this, he always made sure that everything was up to shape and that if there was a mistake it should be small enough so that nopony would notice it.

Now, as he stood before these guards in training, he believed the same sense had been instilled within the new recruits. Like recruits before them and after them, they will undergo the same old tradition that the guard has brought for centuries.

“You did an excellent job training them, Silver Shield.” Shining Armor said.

“Why, it was no problem, sir. Like I said, it was mostly the recruit’s doing. I’m just here to teach, they’re here to perform.” Silver Shield said, gesturing towards the neatly lines ponies. “Give me recruits like these in the next batch and we’ll soon have the best generation of Royal Guards in Equestrian history.”

“Although that’s nice to here, I am sad to say that this will be the last batch of recruits for the year.”

“Last batch of recruits?” Silver Shield exclaimed in shock, staring at Shining Armor, who only nodded gravely. “But, the year is barely over. I think we’ll be able to raise three more companies before the year ends. Why stop now?”

“The usual problem, my friend, bureaucracy.” Shining Armor stated.

“Typical.” Silver Shield spat. “Well, can’t we just send an appeal to the Princess for the creation of another battalion to increase our ranks? Surely she can convince the nobles, right?”

Shining Armor shook his head in disappointment. “Come on, Silver Shield, you and I both know that Princess Celestia will never approve of our request for a third Royal Guard battalion. She may be the highest authority in the land, but she still needs the approval of those nobles in parliament for almost everything she does. And I doubt it that the nobles would agree to spending more of the budget on the Royal Guard. She already had enough trouble convincing the nobles to fund our second battalion, and that was when the treat of Nightmare Moon escaping her dungeon prison was at its height.”

“Damn nobles don’t even trust the Princess. She can’t even do anything, legislative wise, without the nobles complaining and whining.”

“That’s just how the politics works, Silver Shield. That’s why we signed up for the Royal Guard, to try and get away from all of that.” Shining Armor said sympathetically.

A part of a non-prominent yet noble family, Shining Armor, like many before him, would have been destined to play a part in politics, as it was common practice for Caterlot nobles to have a member of the family play politics. But barely able to stand the snub attitude of most nobles and knowing that his destiny wasn’t there, he immediately diverted from the path and joined the Royal Guard instead.

It was a good thing his family wasn’t like those snub nobles, for they were far more understand and considerate of his decision. They had supported him all the way, accepting the idea that he didn’t go into politics. Too bad he didn’t realize back then that politics was what hindered and kept a leash on the Royal Guard.

Silver Shield let out a chuckle as heard that. “Yeah, well too bad it’s starting to catch up on us. Who knew that there would be so much politics behind the Royal Guard?”

“Certainly not me when I joined the Guard. I only saw it all when I was promoted Captain of the Guard, where I finally saw the stocks of paper work that kept the Guard together.”

Reaching the edge of the line and glancing back at the formation of ponies, he gave them a satisfactory nod before returning his attention to Silver Shield.

“Everything is in excellent order.” He said, returning to the formality of the military. “You may now dismiss the company, Lieutenant.”

“Very well, sir.” Silver Shield said with a nod. Turning towards a nearby NCO, he gave him a stern look and gave the order. “Sergeant Major, you may now dismiss the men.”

“Yes, sir!” The ragged NCO said, giving a crisp salute before turning around to face the company.

“Company…dismissed!”

The recruits before them soon dispersed from their formation and made their way back towards their barracks, where Shining Armor was sure they would be ordered to clean their armor till it was reflecting like a mirror.

Gazing at the retreating recruits one last time before turning his attention to Silver Shield, Shining Armor patted him on the back as he gave him a broad smile.

“They may be the last batch for the year, but I’m going to make sure that they’ll be the best company the guard has ever laid eyes on.” Silver Shield said.

“Yeah, they’re not bad, and I’m sure you’ll be able to kick them to be the greatest.” He said, shaking his head, knowing that the low numbers within the Guard has always been a big problem in recent years.

“You know, the nobles are throwing us a ball later tonight.” Shining Armor told Silver Shield. “It’s in honor of the Royal Guards founding anniversary, all officers and a select number of Guards are invited. But I think it would be perfect to invite these young recruits as our guards for the castle tonight.”

“Good idea, sir. They’ll probably consider it an honor to be on guard duty for such a prestigious event.”

“Alright then, schedule them for guard duty tonight. They’ll be placed on guard duty, securing the premises, while A Company from the 1^st Battalion will act as the honor guard.”

“Very well, sir. I’ll right down the orders immediately and have it distributed right now.” Silver Shield said, saluting Shining Armor, who quickly returned the gesture.

As he did an about face and began heading towards his office, Shining Armor could easily hear Silver Shield as he remarked:

“A ball for the guard, ha! They can’t afford to fund another battalion, but they sure can spend money for a party.”

“Announcing the presence of Her Royal Majesty Princess Celestia!” Called out the Guard posted at the ballroom’s grand entrance.

Bringing his attention towards the main entrance, Shining Armor looked up to catch a glance of Princess Celestia, ruler of the Kingdom of Equestria, as she entered the brightly lit room and greeted those before her. Adorned in a beautiful rose colored dress and moving elegantly with her colorful flowing mane, the Princess gave warm smiles and gentle nods to those who met her, as she made her way through the room, greeting Royal Guard members and political guess.

“Oh, isn’t Aunty Celestia so beautiful in that dress?” Cadence asked, smiling as she watched her aunt navigate her way through the room of adoring ponies.

Looking towards his wife and giving her a smile, Shining Armor nodded his head in agreement. “Yes, she is quite pretty in it.” He admitted, although he knew that it was an understatement for she was gorgeous in her plain rose colored dress.

Princess Celestia always looked magnificent, no matter where she goes. Being in the Royal Guard for nearly eight years and having escorted the Princess many times before, Shining Armor was always amazed at how pleasant Princess Celestia always looked, no matter how simple she presented herself.

Maybe it was because of her magic or maybe it was because she was just created beautiful, an answer to that, Shining Armor did not know. But what he did know was that Princess Celestia was the perfect embodiment of pure of grace and beauty. It was no question why so many ponies looked up to her and adore her.

“Even prettier than me?” Cadence asked, raising an eyebrow tilting her head as she stared at her husband.

“Well of course not.” He said, smiling as he began nuzzling her. “You’re the prettiest mare I know, toping all the other mares in Equestria.”

“Always the charmer, aren’t you.” She said, smiling at him.

“Hey, I’m just stating facts.”

“Oh, you…” She said, lightly tapping him as she giggled.

The two were still quietly fooling around when Princess Celestia trotted before them and greeted them with a genuine smile. In response, Shining Armor gave a firm salute, while Cadence replied with her own genuine greeting.

“It is always nice to see you, Captain Armor.” Celestia said pleasantly.

Despite the fact that they were now relatives, the two still acted in a formal and professional manner when in public, in hopes of avoiding any sign of favoritism and controversy. It was only when in private did they remove all formality and talked to each other as family and friends. Both he and the Princess didn’t mind and well understood this small barrier between them, knowing that it was formality that made the upper class ponies of Canterlot, a trade that they have gotten used to over the years.

“And you too, Princess.” Shining Armor replied, a smile still on his face.

“So, Captain, how are you enjoying the party so far?” Celestia inquired; looking at him with the same face he gave all her guess.

As for tradition, it was common for Princess Celestia to throw a ball for the Royal Guard, to honor her loyal soldiers. Throwing a ball in its founding anniversary, she invited all the Guard’s officers and some prominent members to enjoy all that she could offer them. From entertainment to food, it was all there.

But for Shining Armor, occasions like this seemed bland. Despite this being a celebration for the Royal Guard, the event seemed more like a time for ponies to mingle, as the invited political guess tried to further their influence by befriending high ranking officers of the Guard. All in all, the ball to him was nothing more than an event where he would munch on the food and mingle with fellow officers. But he didn’t let any of that negative thinking show, as he gave the Princess a warm smile, pretending that the party was the highlight of the year.

“It’s splendid as usual.” Shining Armor said, then, glancing towards the long table pilled with food, he gave an even bigger smile. “And the food is even better than before.”

“I am glad to hear that.” Celestia said, nodding contently. “I’ll be sure to inform Chef Olive that you are enjoying his dishes.”

The three soon went into a series of light talk, enjoying each other’s company as the Princess obviously devoted a significant amount of time to talk to them. Shining Armor smiled inwardly when he noticed this, for he knew all too well that her patience for nobles was, although tolerant, was not too long. With a room mixed with Royal Guard members and nobles from the parliament, it was clear that the Princess preferred to join company with the Guards than with the nobles.

Talking for a good few minutes, the three enjoyed each other’s presence when suddenly a fourth pony trotted by to join them.

“Good evening, your highness.” The pony, a cream colored unicorn, said bowing towards Celestia. Raising himself up, he then turned to face Shining Armor and Cadence. “And to you too, Princess Cadence and Honorable Captain Armor. Or should I say, Colonel Armor? You know, I never quite understood how this two rank system the Guard gives its commander works.”

Shining Armor gave a polite smile towards the pony, knowing that the two rank system confused many ponies, especially civilians. As the captain of the guard, he held the ceremonial title of Honorable Captain of the Royal Guard. But as an actual officer, he held the true rank of a colonel, commanding both the 1^st and, the new, 2^nd Battalion of the Royal Guard’s one and only regiment.

“Either one would do, Lord Plenum. It’s just a matter of preference.” Shining armor told Rector Plenum, Equestria’s head of parliament.

Although not as powerful as the princess, the prime minister still held a lot of power and influence in the government. The Equestrian parliament was a crucial institution within the government, as the Princess needed the approval of two-thirds majority of the parliament to enact her decrees. Although there are some excemptions to the rule, the Princess basically still needed the approval of the parliament before anything becamse a law. But the same thing worked in reverse, for any law parliament wanted to enact had to be approved by the Princess herself. With such powers and control over the government, it was good to be on top, and as head of the parliament, Lord Plenum was in the highest position anypony can get in the parliament.

“Ah, I see. Then I shall choose Colonel Armor, if you don’t mind, for it seems simpler, don’t you think?”

“Yes, sir.” Shining Armor said in another polite tone.

Rector Plenum held his smile as he looked at Shining Armor, before turning his attention to Princess Celestia, who held a calm smile but gave the influential unicorn a weary gaze.

“Now, Princess Celestia, I know that this is a fine evening, but may I borrow a couple minutes of your time? I’ll be sure to make it quick, so that I wouldn’t disturb you for too long.”

Shining Armor knew the look plastered on Celestia’s face and was sure that she was going to reject the offer and tell him that he should set the conversation at a better time. But as he gazed at the Princess, he saw a quick flash of disappointment and it was soon clear that she would relent to the offer. Both Shining Armor and Celestia knew that if she had rejected his offer for a quick word, he would have constantly bombarded her and continued to insist till she accepted. So no matter what she said, she would still end up convering on what Rector Plenum wanted to talk about.

“Alright, Prime Minister Plenum, I’ll listen to what you have to say.” Celestia said, with a hint of a sigh in her voice.

“Excellent!” Rector Plenum said with a smile. Then, he returned his attention to both Shining Armor and Cadence. “Now, if you two excuse us, we shall be having a small chat with matters that you shouldn’t concern yourselves in this fine night. It is a time for you and your guard-“ He continued ,regarding Shining Armor. “-to enjoy the ball, not busy yourself with our political talks. So once more, good evening to you, Colonel Armor and you Princess Cadence.”

With that, the two trotted off and away from them.

“You know, I always feel sorry for Aunty Celestia when things like this happen. With all the nobles and politicians pestering her all the time, she must have a headache constantly battering her.”

“Yeah, I think they’re getting worse every year.” Shining Armor said, nodding sympathetically.

The party went on with Celestia’s absence, as Guard officers and members talked in small groups, sharing experiences and recollecting old times. While roaming around with Cadence inside the large ball room, Shining Armor found himself in the presence of old friends, from officers he graduated with in the Royal Guard’s Officer Academy to ponies who served under his command. But during that night, there was no other pony he was gladder to see than an old yet though looking Earth Pony sergeant who looked at him with a small grin as the two approached each other.

“Sgt. Pike, long time no see!” Shining Armor exclaimed, grasping the large earth pony with a firm hug.

“Ay, laddy, it’s been a long time indeed.” Pike said, pulling away from the hug. Dressed in old an red tunic uniform and bearing medals all over it, Pike looked like an intimidating pony, especially when mixed with his large and powerful figure. But Shining Armor knew better that to trust looks alone, for deep inside he knew Pike to be a gently and caring pony.

Glancing towards Cadence, Pike gave her a polite greeting by giving her a stiff bow and a warm greeting.

“A pleasant evening to you, Princess Cadence.” He said.

“A pleasant evening to you too, Sgt. Pike.”

“Please, madam, just call me Mr. Pike. I am already retired from service and bare no more rank.”

“Yes, but you’ll always be Sgt. Pike to me.” Shining Armor said..

Chuckling, Pike shook his head and stared at Shining Armor. “Look at you now-“ He said. “-a fine officer and not that just, the Captain of the Guard!”

“And that’s all because of you.” Shining Armor stated, remembering the old days when Sgt. Pike was his ever patient mentor who taught him the ropes in the Royal Guard. Despite learning a lot at the Officer’s Academy, it was still through Sgt. Pike did Shining Armor ease himself into his command. With the earth pony’s advice and firm enforcement of orders, Shining Armor was able to take control of his first command, as well as learn from the veteran sergeant.

“So, what bring you here anyways? Last time I checked, you hated all of this fancy pish posh parties.” Shining Armor asked, grinning as he started at Pike, who was just shaking his head.

“Hate them I do.” Pike said. “Just look at this! Useless waste of tax payer’s money. But if it entertains you officers, then I guess it isn’t a total waste. Anyways, as to why I’m here, well, I guess I decided to give you chaps one last visit. See how things are going on and what you all are up to while I still can.

“What do you mean by ‘while I still can’?” Shining Armor asked, giving him a quizzical look.

“Oh, it’s just the old soldier’s gut telling me that-“ He paused, unsure how to continue. “-that somehow, I won’t be able to attend this and see you all here in the future.”

Shining Armor stared at him for a while, quiet from those words he said. What was he talking about? He thought. He couldn’t be saying that he’s getting old or sick and is spending as much time with his old comrades… No! He may be old, but he isn’t that old. And besides, he looks to healthy to be carrying some kind of disease. So what’s bugging him?

After a moment or two, he shook his head, wanting to change the mood into something more cheerful. “Nonsense, you’ll have plenty of time to visit is in the future. You better have somepony check that gut of yours, since I think it’s getting a little rusty. I can’t say I can blame it though, seeing that your new civilian life has been leaving it idle. Speaking about civilian life, how’s it treating you?”

“It’s good, but boring.” Pike admitted, quick to accept the change of topic. “Just how I expected civilian life to be.”

Shining Armor chuckled as he heard this from him. “Well, at least it gives you the opportunity to go to the pub without requesting permission.” Shaking his head, he gave another chuckle. “Knowing you, you probably spend your days inside a pub now. No, wait, you probably own a pub and get your drink for free now. With all that bits in your pension, I doubt it if you haven’t done that yet.

“Well, lady, I can’t say you’re not wrong. I may have used some of my bits to open up my own little business, just south from here at Ponyville. A decent place, nice and quiet, yet highly profitable.” He said with a proud smile. “Just let me know if you decided to visit, I’ll treat you to a drink or two.”

Shining Armor smiled as he nodded. “I’ll be sure to send you a letter if do.”

Pike grinned. “Well, now speaking of drinks, do you happen to know where they keep all the nice beverages here? You know what I mean. All this talk is making me mighty thirsty and I can use a nice drink of two.

“It’s right over there, on the other end of the long table.” Shining Armor said, grinning as he pointed out his directions. Oh, you never change, he thought.

“Ah, there it is!” Pike said in a satisfied tone. “And what a fine assortment.” Despite the distance from the table, it was clear that Pike had no trouble seeing the group of bottles displayed on it. “Well, if you two excuse me, I think I’ll get myself acquainted with those fine drinks.”

“Just make sure you don’t get too acquainted. We don’t want you to be the main event of the ball now, do we?”

“Yes, sir. I’ll be sure to stop just before I trip over the edge!” Pike called out with a chuckle, as he quickly trotted away.

“Oh that pony, he will never change at all.” Shining Armor murmured pleasantly.

Turning his attention towards Cadence, he gave his wife an apologetic look. “Sorry about that. We must have bored you with our blabbering.” He said, knowing that she didn’t much have anything to say or do, while they were focused in their conversation.

“No it’s alright.” Cadence reassured. “It was actually interesting listening to you two converse.”

The rest of the night went on fairly normal, with the two enjoying the evening, mingling with others or visiting the catering table. At one point, as Shining Armor was munching on a pastry, when he suddenly noticed a single Guard discretely enter the large room. From all the armor he was wearing, he immediately concluded that it was one of the on duty Guards.

Stopping by the entrance, he saw the Guard gaze around the large room, searching for somepony, before quickly padding towards whomever he found.

“I wonder where the rush is.” Shining Armor mumbled, as the pony disappeared into the crowd.

“Hmm?” Cadence asked from beside him.

“Oh its nothing.” Shining Armor said, shrugging it off. It’s probably nothing. He thought to himself. Maybe some Guard reporting about a minor issue. But despite this reassuring thought, a small feeling inside him was keeping him alert, telling him that there was more to what he just saw.

Only a few moments later, this feeling was immediately proven to be true, for a different armored guardspony approached him and saluted.

“What can I do for you, private?” Shining Armor asked.

“Princess Celestia is requesting your and Princess Cadence’s presence in the Royal Conference room.” The Guard said. “An interesting situation has just developed and she wishes your presence.”

“Aunti Celestia?” Cadence said, a curious look on her face. “Is there something wrong?” She then asked the Guard.

“I do not know, your Highness, I was only told to fetch you two.” The Guard replied.

Nodding in response, Cadence quickly turned her attention towards Shining Armor, who was shaking his head.

“I doubt it if it’s good news.” He told her.

Chapter 1

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The Royal Conference room was large and wide, as expected of any room within the Royal Palace. But unlike the other rooms, this one was plain and bland, with nothing but the long wooden table and chairs inside the white room.

Seated at one end of the table was Princess Celestia, tall with all the poise she had always held. Siting patiently on a chair beside Celestia was Shining Armor, who stared at the seat opposite him, where Lord Rector Plenum sat, his eyes darting from one corner to the other as he waited for the Princess to speak. Beside Shining Armor was Cadence, who was also waiting patiently for Celestia to begin their impromptu meeting.

Giving a quick glance towards the entrance of the room, Shining Armor stared at the thick wooden door that were now locked and protected by two members of the Royal Guard, who were under orders to let nopony disturb them. Although he didn’t doubt the loyalty and training of the Guards before them, it was still nice to have such thick doors that muffled their voice, just in case what was said within the room was not meant to get out.

“You’re all probably wondering why I suddenly summoned you hear.” Celestia began. “Trust me, I would not have disturbed such a wonderful night unless very pressing matters had arrived to me.”

“I’m taking it that you have some bad news for us?” Cadence said.

Celestia nodded gravely, before levitating a scroll that she had laid before her.

“I’m afraid that it is actually worse than that.” She said, as she brought the scroll towards Lord Plenum. “Just a few moments ago I received an urgent message from Colonel Spitfire of the 1^st Aerial Squadron. She reports that just before sunset one of her northerly patrol groups encountered a high resonance of magic at the frozen wastelands between us and Yakyakistan. Upon further investigation, it seems that the patrol had stumbled upon a vast city made out of crystal, in a place where there should be nothing but snow and ice. Surveying the area, the patrol discovered that it was filled with ponies who were littered all over the street, seemingly just waking up, confused, and lost.”

“Wait, did you say a vast city?” Lord Plenum asked. “A vast city that just appeared out of nowhere? How is that even possible?”

“Yes, Prime Minister, a city made out of crystal.” Celestia said with a nod. “As for how it got there, I must admit that it was somewhat my doing.”

“You’re doing?” Cadence asked with a confused look.

“Princess, are you telling us that you summoned an entire city and all its inhabitants into a frozen tundra?”

“No, not exactly like that, Captain.” Celestia said, closing her eyes as if reminiscing something before letting out a long sigh. “You see, many thousands of years ago, even way back before I had to banish Nightmare Moon into the Moon, there used to be a vast, prosperous, and powerful kingdom to the north of Equestria, known as the Crystal Empire. Now, the Crystal Empire may sound like any other place in Equestria, but it holds within itself a powerful magic, which, in the days of old reflected the hope and love of its citizens. However, this all changed when King Sombra took power. So dark was his heart, he managed to corrupt the entire Empire and enslave its citizens, spreading a horrible corruption not only in the Empire, but all across Equestria. So bad the situation was, I was forced to intervene in behalf of all that was good and managed to imprison and exile King Sombra into the darkness where I hoped he would never return. Sadly, he managed to bring a curse upon the Empire and the moment he disappeared, so did the Empire and its ponies. I thought that they would never return, until now.”

“So now that the Empire has returned…” Shining Armor said, giving thought to what he had heard. “…then King Sombra must have returned with it too.”

“Yes, I believe he has.” Celestia simply replied.

“But, your Highness-“ Lord Plenum said, looking away from the scroll he had just read. “…Colonel Spitfire’s report makes no mention of this King Sombra. The only ponies they seem to have found are citizens of the city itself.”

“That may be true, Prime Minister, but trust me, he is there, I can sense his evil even here at Canterlot. He is weak as of now and most likely hasn’t regain most of his magic yet, so this gives us the opportunity to act before all is too late. We must secure the Crystal Empire before King Sombra can set his hooves on it, or else all would be lost and his evil corruption would spread across the land again. Captain, how soon can you send a strong force to Northern Equestria?”

“I can have a company ready to move out within an hour, Princess.” Shining Armor informed her. “But if we need anything bigger it would take a lot more time. The 2^nd Battalion could be up, ready, and on the move within two hours, complete with all their supplies and equipment.”

“How long would it take you to get both battalions of the regiment moving north, Captain?” Celestia inquired, causing shock to everyone in the room as they stared at her widened.

“Both battalions?” Lord Plenum said, letting what he had heard sink in. “Your Highness, I must object! We cannot send both battalions to deal with the problem up north, and leave Canterlot defenseless. We would be vulnerable if that happens!”

“Unfortunately, Prime Minister, it is necessary for us to send a force that large. In fact, I believe even then two battalions is not enough and I would like for the Royal Guard to coordinated with Colonel Spitfire’s Aerial Squadron for a joint operation. Trust me when I say that King Sombra is a difficult pony to deal with and I know he would resort to any force in his hooves to prevent anypony from stopping him.

“But to leave Canterlot defenseless, your Highness? Surely we can spare some Guards to protect the capital?” Lord Plenum continued to push.

Groaning in his mind, Shining Armor couldn’t help but amuse himself with his own thoughts. We wouldn’t be having this problem if you and the other members of parliment just approved the proposal for another Guard’s battalion. Shining Armor thought to himself.

In his own estimates he guessed that Equestria would have needed a total of two regiments, with three battalions each, of Guards. All in all, that would give him not only enough Guards to secure Canterlot, but also the borders of Equstria.

Many times before he had pointed out that the lack of numbers within the Guard prevented them from handling all security threats. But each time he presented his report to them he always got the same reply, telling him that the country had no more bits left in their budget to support another battalion.

“If I may offer my suggestion, Princess…” Shining Armor said, finally speaking up. “…why not call up the Guard’s reserve battalion and place them in charge of the defense of the capital? That way, we may divert the 1^st and 2^nd Battalions to the mission, while still ensuing the safety of the capital.”

“An excellent idea, Captain.” Celestia said with a smile.

“Well, that seems reasonable enough…” Lord Plenum admitted. “...but how long will it take for you to gather all of the reserve battalion?”

“Since this is all happening in such short notice, it would take at least six hours for us to gather and organize the reserve battalion.” Shining Armor stated. “Meanwhile, it would take at least three hours for two active battalions to gather and stock on supplies before leaving for northern Equestria.”

“So that will leave us a three our gap where there would be no active Guard units in the city.” Cadence concluded.

“Sounds risky to me, if you don’t mind me saying.” Lord Plenum said.

“But this is a risk we must take.” Celestia said in a stern tone. “I am sure and confident that the local City Guard can handle any domestic problems within this gap and I doubt that anything bad would happen at all. What is important though is that we act against King Sombra, and we must act fast and with good strength provided by those two Guard battalions.”

“Very well, your Highness.” Lord Plenum said, after giving it some thought. “You are the one who has dealt with this King Sombra before, so I trust your judgement on how to deal with him again.”

“Thank you for your support, Lord Plenum.” Celestia said, before turning her attention both to Shining Armor and Cadence. “Although King Sombra is basically powerless unless he takes hold of the Crystal Empire, he is still a dangerous force to deal with. I believe and sense that he still have enough magic within him to cause great harm. Because of that, I would like it if you two would accompany the force.”

“Us two?” Cadence asked.

“Yes.” Celestia simply replied. “It would be good if the Captain of Guard himself would lead and watch over the operation, and I have no doubt that a skillful officer and powerful unicorn like Shining Armor is highly capable for this mission. And in case things get too intense, the presence of an alicorn would be needed and that alicorn is you, Cadence. You know many spells as well as me and I know that if King Sombra proves too much you can deal with him.”

“Well, that’s a pretty tall order, Princess.” Shining Armor muttered, but gave a confident smile. “But you order, and I obey, my liege.”

“This is certainly sudden and unexpected.” Cadence admitted. “And practically, Auntie, I expected you to be the one who will be accompanying the Guards. But if you believe that I’m capable of doing it, then I won’t question your judgment.”

“Very well then, it is settled.” Celestia said with a smile as she addressed all of them in the room. “Princes Cadence and Shining Armor will lead the two Royal Guard battalions to the north and seize the Crystal Empire and capture or rid of King Sombra.” Turning her attention once more to Cadence and Shining Armor, she gave them both a warm smile.

“The faith of Equestria and the Crystal Empire will be in your hooves now, but I am confident that you two won’t fail.”

“Don’t worry, Princess, us two as a combo are unstoppable.” Shining Armor said with a wink.

“So? What do you think?” Shining Armor asked, as he and Cadence trotted up the stairs and on to the platform. By now, the platform was packed with armored ponies, as some hauled supplies and equipment, while others boarded the various carts on the track. Smiling at the efficiency of the whole system, he couldn’t help but beam in approval at the site of his Guards working smoothly and in good order.

“Hm?” Cadence asked, staring at him as she was snapped away from her distracted thoughts.

“I said…” Shining Armor said, grinning and giving her a knowing look. “…what do you think?”

“Um, about what, Honey?” Cadence asked with a puzzled look.

“Well, about this all.” He said, giving a grand gesture. “I know I’m glad to have you here with me, but aren’t you wondering why Celestia won’t go herself? You’re a powerful Princess, Hon, don’t get me wrong, but if she says Sombra is a powerful as she claims him to be, even in his weakened state, why not go herself?”

Starting at him before sighing, Cadence shook her head in reply.

“I wish I knew an answer to that too, Honey…” She admitted. “I’ve been wondering the same thing too and to be honest, its scaring me.”

“It is?” He said, moving closer to her caringly.

“Yes, it is.” She said with a nod. “It’s just that…Auntie Celestia is this great and powerful leader, and a masterful alicorn too, and I’m…I’m just me, a Princess who’s an expert in love. Now, I’m not trying to down play my role in things, but compared to my Aunt, I’m second class. And now…now I’m going on a mission where I have to fill her role. Those are big horse shoes I have to fill, Shining.”

“Hey, hey now, don’t think like that.” Shining Armor said, placing a gently hoof on her back. “You know that she wouldn’t be sending you if she didn’t believe you’re capable.”

“I know, I know…” She admitted. “But it’s just making me feel nervous, knowing the importance of this mission and the faith she placed on me. It’s scary because I’m afraid I might fail.”

“You won’t fail, honey.” Shining Armor said, nuzzling his wife. “You’re as great as Celestia herself, and you will find a way.” Chuckling, he then shook his head and gave her a wink. “Besides, if things get too crazy you always have the Royal Guard and it’s handsome, Captain to assist you.”

“Always the charmer.” Cadence said, giggling and shaking her head.

Reaching the main coach which will serve as their quarters for the journey, they were immediately met by Lieutenant Colonel Sharp Spear, who both gave them a crisp salute. Behind him, the ponies of the 1^st Battalion, already sporting their winter gear and warm heat winter uniforms, were loading into their assigned coaches.

“Colonel… Your Highness…” He said, as Shining Armor returned the salute while Cadence gave a nod of acknowledgement.

“How are the preparations, Colonel?” Shining Armor asked, before glancing at the Guards working at double time. “I trust that you are on schedule?”

“Yes, sir, on time as always.” Sharp Spear said with a grin. “Me and my 1^st Battalion are never late.”

“Well, that’s always good to hear, Colonel.” Shining Armor said, knowing that it always seemed to be true. “And how about Colonel Broadside, how’s he doing?”

“Oh, you know him, sir…” Sharp Spear said, laughing as he shook his head. “…that brute is having a hard time figuring out which goes where. He and his Battalion are taking up the rear most carts and last time I checked he was just starting to get his companies onboard.”

Although most of what Sharp Spear said was just exaggerated friendly batter, Shining Armor did know that Lieutenant Colonel Broadside did have some problems regarding organization. A brave and more direct pony, Broadside was never a fan when it came to logistics and organization. He can have his battalion moving quick against an enemy’s flank during military maneuvers, but the action of deploying his ponies on board was a different question, which was often solved by shoving as much ponies and material into one cart, until they couldn’t fit anymore, and then doing the same process to next cart until done. Although he excelled in training and leading from the front, he sadly lacked the foresights and skills when it came to more administrative and logistics duties, often leaving such troubles to his staff officers. But having received an emergency order from Shining Armor to move his battalion, and wanting to prove he wasn’t bad in logistics as most officer believed, he sadly decided to handle the work himself.

Shaking his head and sighing, Shining Armor turned towards a pony from his staff, who had been carefully trailing him and Cadence since they left Canterlot Castle.

“Go to Colonel Broadside and inform him that I am respectfully summoning him to battalion commanders meeting, and that he should regulate the task of boarding his battalion on the train to his staff and subordinates.”

With a nod and a salute, Shining Armor watched as the pony trotted away, before turning back towards Sharp Spear, who was giving him a soft smile and curious look.

“So, Colonel, mind filling me in on what’s happening?” He asked. “Because this deployment order was so sudden. Like, orders to move out within three hours? We’ve done that in training, but never in a real life scenario before. So what’s happening? It must be something big.

Typical Sharp Spear, Shining Armor thought, always the thinker.

I’ll explain more later, once Broadside gets here.” He said, deciding to hold back the big news till both his senior commanders were with him. “Now come on, let’s wait for him inside my command coach, it’s starting to get chilly out here.”

“Careful, Colonel, it seems like that cushy job as commander is making you soft.” Sharp Spear said with a grin. “Or is it merely out of concern for her Majesty?”

“Oh, shut up.” He said, pretending to be cross, but actually shaking his head and grinning.

It didn’t take long for Broadside to arrive, and once they were all comfortably sat around a large table in the center of the coach, with a map of northern Equestria sprawled on it, the meeting began. Shining Armor’s first order of business was to explain the situation to his senior officers, essentially relaying to them what information Princess Celestia told them earlier, surprising both Sharp Spear and Broadside of the Crystal Empire’s return, as well as making them realize the threat the unknown King Sombra posed to Equstria.

Always the gentlecolt, he allowed his wife to take the lead during this part, giving her the opportunity to explain the situation and the seriousness of what they were about to face. It also reflected to the two other officer’s that Cadence held an equal position as him in this expedition, reminding them that the alicorn Princess wasn’t just here to observe, but instead she was also here to lead and command.

Once that was done, however, the task of planning a strategy began, and that job had obviously fallen onto him.

“The rail will carry us as far as Northern Point.” Shining Armor said, pointing a hoof on the map. “If we stick close to the schedule, then we should be there by morning. Once there, we would meet up with Colonel Spitfire’s 1^st Aerial Squadron, who have been temporarily attached to us for the operation. I would like to have them take point and I’ll have her teams scout out the area ahead of the force, in case this Sombra wants to play some tricks on us. The rest of the force will move in one column to the Crystal Empire, leaving behind a company at Northern Point to secure our line of communications. Sharp Spear, you’ll be taking up the vanguard, while Broadside, you’ll have the rear. We don’t know what to expect there, but we must be ready for anything and adapt to the situation as it happens. We’ll have another meeting once we get to Northern Point, after we get a feel for our environment and adjust to what information Colonel Spitfire has for us when we arrive. If all things go as planned, however, then we should be able to get to the Empire before noon time tomorrow, and hopefully also before Sombra does. Any questions and concerns?”

There was a short silence, as both senior officers studied the map and reflected on what Shining Armor had said. But it wasn’t long before Sharp Spear spoke up.

“Sir, I know I’m not very much familiar with Northern Point, but from what I heard from the conductor of this line, that place is nothing but the end of the line, with no station or facilities to assist in the unloading of supplies. It’s going to be real though bringing out our equipment, especially the heavy pieces like the cannons, in such a place. It’s going to take up a lot of our time and delay us.”

“Yes, Spear, that crossed my mind too.” Shining Armor admitted. “But there’s really nothing we can do about it. I suggest though that the both of you have the uncirons of your battalions focus on the unloading of equipment. Telekinesis would be really helpful in lifting down the supplies from the coaches. If worst comes to worst, however, we’ll just have to move out without the heavy supplies and equipment. Just so we can be there before noon.”

“Move out into hostile territory without cannons?” Broadside exclaimed, making everypony turn their eyes to him. “Surely you aren’t really considering that, sir?”

“I’m afraid I am, Colonel.” Shining Armor said, gravely nodding. “Speed is the essence here, Broadside.”

For a moment, Broadside stared at Shining Armor with pleading eyes, as if wanting to convince him. But he soon sighed and shook his head, quickly realizing that there was no changing his mind if they really planned on meeting their planned timeline.

“What kind of opposition do we expect on meeting?” He instead asked, and Shining Armor turned to Cadence to allow her to brief them on the little information Spitfire had already given them. It would at least also prevent her from feeling left out as they talked about military matters.

“As of now-“ She began. “-we have heard no reports of King Sombra commanding any army or force. But let’s not make that fool us in taking things easy. From what Princess Celestia has told us, Sombra is a very powerful being, one who is capable of handling things on his own. He wields magic that is so dark and powerful that we must be very careful in fighting him. Whatever happen though, I would be there to support you if there is a fight. I may not be as good as my Auntie Celestia, but she has trained me well enough to deal with whatever he may throw at us.”

“Thank you, Princess.” Broadside said, a grateful expression on his face.

Smiling too, Shining Armor nodded before asking the two for anymore concerns. Once he was sure that there were none, he dismissed them so that they could return to the duty of overseeing the loading of their battalions.

Left alone in the coach, Shining Armor and Cadence sat and waited, enjoying their short moment alone. Soon enough, Shining Armor knew that his staff would barge in, done with the last minutes duties he had assigned them, and ready to prepare the coach into the command center that it would be for the long trip north. After that, there would barely be a moment the two would be alone, until the expedition was over and back at Canterlot.

Sighing and scooting over towards Shining Armor, Cadence rested her head on him, eyes closed and body enjoying his warmth. Wrapping a hoof around her and feeling concerned, he turned his head towards her and kissed her forehead.

“Are you okay, Honey?” He asked.

“Yeah…” She said, eyes still closed. “…just, still feeling a bit anxious.”

He could tell she was still very concerned about the responsibility, despite how lightly she was saying it, and she was probably also bothered that she had to keep up the immaculate image of a princess throughout the entire expedition, with little chance and no time to drop it and relieve herself of the stress of command. He knew the feeling, he experienced it before during the week long military maneuvers, where the stares of his staff and commanders were always on him, giving him no break to relax and feel free from the pressure.

Knowing this, and making good use of their last opportunity alone, Shining Armor immediately pulled her close and kissed her on the forehead once more. “Don’t worry, Cadence, I’m here with you, all the way. No matter what awaits us there, the two of us can handle it together. Besides, we also have the best two battalions of the Royal Guard with us.” He added, slightly puffing out his chest as he felt proud of those under his command.

Cadence giggled at this, and opened her eye just to roll them.

“Well now, aren’t you one modest Captain of the Guard.”

“Hey, it’s hard not to be proud when you know they’re the best.” Shining Armor said with a grin.

Cadence giggled once more, before the smile slowly faded from her face. “Do you think it’s going to be hard?” She then asked, a note of seriousness in her voice. “Do you think this King Sombra is going to put up a hard fight?”

“From what Princess Celestia has told us, I think he is.” Shining Armor admitted.

Cadence nodded, before turning her head to face him, her eyes watery, as he watched her hold back tears. “Just…just promise me to take care of yourself, okay? I know I’ll be there with you, but when things get heated and everything happens fast, I won’t be able to keep an eye on you the entire time. And I know you…you’ll end up doing something heroic…something stupid…something that can end up getting you hurt. It’s part of your duty as a Captain of the Guard, it’s in your nature as yourself. I can sense it; I know you’ll do something like that. So please, promise me that you’ll take care of yourself?”

There was no hesitation within Shining Armor. He immediately kissed her on the lips, letting the kiss last as long as they can, before pulling back and smiling at her.

“I promise.”

Shining Armor's War

by Teal

Prologue

Chapter 1