Spike and Cadance must be careful not to reveal their relationship to any pony. But Spike wants more. He wants what Shining Armor had. Watch as the relationship develops in secret until something happens that will force them to bring their relationship to light. Prequel link: http://www.fimfiction.net/story/152392/a-royal-loss

This story starts with a battle in which Shining Armor dies. Cadance must learn to survive as well as keep the kingdom in one piece. Will she be able to do that? Or will depression bring the Empire into ruins and dismay. Luckily Spike is there to help her out. Let's see how The Crystal Empire will stand the test of a tragety of this magnitude.