I'm no Princess...I'm a wreck.by NailahChaptersChapter 1: The Worst NewsChapter 2: Be Strong, My LoveChapter 3: GuiltChapter 4: RegretsChapter 1: The Worst NewsCadence was beyond horrified when a mail pony came to deliver the news to her. She had just put Flurry Heart to bed, she was finally sleeping more, nowadays, which was good for her, and meant she was able to get sleep as well. Though she still felt pretty exhausted with all the stress she had been under. A lot of people thought she had it easy, but there was nothing easy about being a Princess. Just because she was a Princess, didn't mean she lived a worry free life, she was always worrying about her people, worrying about her daughter, and worrying about her husband. She had opened up the letter, started to read, expecting it to be some boring royal news, that Celestia thought she had to have, but no...she wished it would've been boring royal news, when she got to the point of the letter. She had to reread it twice for it to fully sink in, and even then she didn't want to believe it. “Dear Princess Cadence, I hate to be the one to give you this unfornuate news, there was a severe training accident with our royal guards, most of them just had concussions, and minor injuries...but your husband Shining Armor hasn't woken up since the injury. My sister Luna says he's sleeping, but it's like he can't wake up. I have already sent word to Twilight as well, and she is going to reasearch what she can, but right now, we aren't sure if he'll wake up. It's very important for you, to come see him with a clear mind. Your friend, Celestia. How could this have happened? A severe training accident? Shining always had assured her, he'd always come home to her, and now she would have to go to him. She took a deep sigh. Shining Armor would want her to remain strong and viligiant...but how could she be after hearing such news? She extended her hoof up to her chest, letting out a deep breath. She had to remain calm. She couldn't afford to cause panic in her Kingdom. There was no need to worry them with this news, it was bad enough she had to receive it. She had to get out to see him. She would need a sitter for Flurry, as much as she would have liked to take her with her, she knew it was best for her to stay here. Who could she trust to watch over Flurry? Sure, her immediate thought was Twilight, but if she was looking for clues on to what might wake Shining up, she needed her time to dedicate to that. Who else could she trust? Her first thought was someone from the Crystal Empire, and she was beyond certain that the stallion she thought of, would not only take care of Flurry while she was away, but keep the citizens from panicking with alarm as to why their princess suddenly left with no warnings. It would send panic throughout her Kingdom, and that was the last thing she needed to worry about right now. She had to go attend to Shining Armor, and learn if there was anything she could do to help. There had to be something the doctors could do...he couldn't die. She would be nothing without him. He was her rock, her love, her everything, and if she lost him to an accident, she'd never forgive herself for letting him go. She gathered the basic essentials that she'd need for her trip, and then galloped over towards Sunburst's home. She knocked on his door, hoping he was home. She felt like she waited forever when he finally opened the door. “Oh hey there, Princess Cadence, is there something I can do for you? Or is this about the Flurry?” he questioned as he opened up his door to allow her inside so the two could discuss in private. Princess Cadence was in a hurry, to get to Shining Armor as soon as she could, but she made sure that no pony could hear them. “It's complicated...,” she began as she looked towards Sunburst. “I have to take a trip to Canterlot, Shining Armor....he was in an accident and is unconscious. I can't take Flurry with me, it's best for her to stay here in the Empire. I was hoping...you could watch her for me while I'm away. Hopefully, I'll be back in a few days time, but I want to check up on Shining, talk to the doctors, and go see if there's anything that Twilight might be able to do in the aid of his recovery. However...I'm preparing myself for the worst possible outcome...that he may not wake up. I don't even want to think about it, but Sunburst, I need you now more than ever, to be there for Flurry. Promise me.” she begged Sunburst practically in tears. She managed to hold her tears back, but it was very clear how worried she was. The look in her eyes, how her form was so stiff. There was no doubt this was a most pressing matter. “That is complicated.” replied Sunburst softly. He wasn't sure what to think, or even how much help he could be, but if watching Flurry was the best thing he could do, he would at least try. “I can watch Flurry, just be careful.” spoke Sunburst. “I will be.” replied Princess Cadence, then she stood up and left out the door, in a dash. She flew up into the sky, she wasn't going to wait for a train. She had to get there as soon as she could, and flying was the quickest way of getting there. At least the clouds were in her favor today, there was no rain scheduled so it might flight that much easier. It didn't take her long to get to Canterlot, but it felt like it took forever. During the flight there, she had time to think on a lot of things. What would she do when she saw Shining Armor in such a weakened state? Would she be able to hold herself together? How was she going to confront Twilight about this, and the most important question, what were his chances of waking up...she knew very little about comas, but she knew the rate of waking up from them was rare. The mere thought of never hearing his laugh, never seeing his overreaction to weddings, never having Flurry have her father there to walk her down the aisle someday. These weren't thoughts she wanted in her head, but yet, she couldn't stop thinking about the what if's. She had to be strong...he needed her to be strong, even when she felt so weak without him. “Cadence.” spoke Celestia as she landed down near the Canterlot Palace. She was not at all surprised that Celestia was there waiting to greet her. Celestia wrapped her hooves and wings around Cadence. “I'm so sorry about this. It's a terrible burden to all of us.” began Celestia. It was very clear she was keeping a calm and gentle tone. “Don't be sorry, there's nothing you could do. It's up to the medics now. Surely they can do something, can't they?” she questioned, with a somewhat hopeful look in her eyes. Though, in her mind...she knew what Celestia was going to say. “His chances aren't good. I have talked to the doctors and the nurses. His chances are slim of ever waking up from this. It's called a coma, and if we are lucky you being here will be his saving grave. I know, it's not something any of us want to think, but we can't ignore it either. Ultimately, the final decision will rest in your hooves, and your hooves alone. You are more than welcome to see me anytime you wish, for anything you might need. I'm always here.” spoke Celestia holding her close. Cadence sobbed. She had wanted to avoid seeming like a weak and fragile child, but she was horrified, terrified...of losing the man she loved. She sobbed uncontrollably for what seemed to her like an hour, but was really only a few minutes, as her tears dried up in her eyes. She looked up towards Celestia, who looked straight at her, with a most concerned look. How could she possibly understand what she was going through? She didn't have a husband, a child...sure she had a Kingdom but it wasn't the same. She had more burdens then most ponies knew. She was angry. She didn't want to be the one to affected by this, but here she was. She had to see Shining Armor. She thanked Celestia for her concerns and asked to be led to where Shining Armor was being kept. She knew she wouldn't see the Shining Armor that she knew, when the nurses allowed her into the room. Of course, Shining Armor laid there on the hospital bed, unicorn magic keeping him breathing, and alive. It wasn't the same. She walked in, and sat down on the opposite side of the nurse. “How long has he been like this?” she asked the nurse. The nurse looked to her, with a grim expression. “It's almost been twenty four hours, since the accident. So many of us, are so busy taking care of the ones with concussions, and minor injuries that there's not that many of us left, to watch over a patient...that might not ever wake up. I'm sorry. I wish I could do more, than offer my sympathy. Right now, it's all I can do.” replied Nurse Red Heart. “I appriciate that, really I do. If you don't mind, I would like to be alone with my husband.” spoke Princess Cadence as she put her hooves over his. Despite the fact he wasn't able to hear her or see her, her presence was all he needed. She wasn't going to give up. “Of course.” replied Nurse Red Heart as she stood up and gave Princess Cadence and Shining Armor space. Cadence sighed heavily to herself. She looked to Shining Armor and smoothed out the ruffles of his mane. He deserved to at least look like the soldier he was. “My love...I'm here.” she whispered to him. She knew he could hear her, he had to hear her, he just had to wake up....she felt the tears building up in her eyes, but she wouldn't cry. She wouldn't let him see her cry. She decided to stay with him for now. She planned on visiting Twilight and Zecora. She hoped that someday one of them might be able to do something. She only hoped it wasn't too late to save Shining Armor from dying from this. She tried her self breathing treatment to calm her nerves, but it didn't work. She felt so weak. So many ponies, thought she had it so easy, but she had an entire Kingdom to worry about, a child to take care of, and now she had to be strong when Shining Armor couldn't. It was beyond challenging, she felt like it was impossible, but she wouldn't give up, because she knew if the roles were reversed, he would not give up on her. She had to believe that he WOULD wake up. She couldn't waste another second, she had to go to Ponyville to see Twilight. She was honestly surprised Twilight hadn't already been here, but then again, she was a Princess too and was most likely dealing with issues just like she was. She'd understand the pressures of Princesshood, the two connected a lot more since she had known her since she was little. She had been quite the little energtic foal, when she had been her foal sitter. She hoped perhaps that Twilight's knowledge might clear up some things about this coma, that Celestia simply was unable to answer. She leaned down to kiss Shining Armor on the lips, as a single tear escaped her and landed on his cheek. “I will find a way, my love. Please stay with me.” she begged, and with that she stood up and exited the hospital. Chapter 2: Be Strong, My LoveCadence knew if anyone had answers, it would be Twilight, that silly filly always did have a strange fasnication with knowledge. Right now, she was relying on that, it might be the only way to save Shining Armor. She couldn't think like that, but it was hard...to ignore the possiblity of it, and what it would mean, not just for her, but for her people too... She landed down in in front of Twilight's castle. It was eerily quiet in the town, which she wasn't sure was a good sign or a sign of ill will news to come...she prayed for hope and she knew she had to be strong...he would be strong in her hooves. She took a deep heavy breath as she hurried in to find Twilight. She wasn't used to the interior of her castle quite yet, but she knew where the main library was. She rushed in to find Twilight Sparkle running back and forth between three piles of books on the floor, as Spike was seen, gathering more books from the upper bookcases. There was no doubt...she knew. “Cadence!” spoke Twilight. Cadence opened up her arms as Twilight came running over to her. She wrapped her hooves and wings around her in a soft, loving embrace. “I've missed you so much...Twilight. We really need to see each other in less stressful times.” she spoke with a heavy sigh. Twilight looked towards her with a droop of her ears. “I heard about my brother...I've been spending every second I could, trying to find anything that could be of use. Of course my knowledge is vastly limited, I'm not a healer, and who knows if Mage Meadowbrook would even know how to cure this! If there's a cure...He's my brother. How did this happen?” she questioned. She had every right and reason to be upset, just as much as I was saddened, yet horrified at the news. Twilight was probably taking this even harder than me, because she was Shining Armor's little sister. She could only imagine how much stress she was under right now. She had saved Equestria many times, but if she wasn't able to save her brother, Cadence was sure she would think she was a failure. Cadence didn't plan to let her think that, or even want to believe that notion. She shook her head back and forth. No...there was no time to waste. “What books have you looked through? Is there anything I can do to help?” questioned Cadence. Even if it was simply reading, or gathering books like Spike was, or even taking notes. Anything she could do to speed up the process, because if the nurse was indeed right in her own knowledge of comas, Shining Armor didn't have long yet to live, and the only thing tying him to this world right now was the nurse's magic and knowledge of what was going on. “I've poured through most of my collection of medical remedies, and I have yet to find anything that useful. Though, it says here in this book, that there's an old potion that could wake up a comptosed patient, but it's only a fifty fifty shot of it even working, and even then, the only one that knows potion making, is Zecora. Perhaps we should go see her.” suggested Twilight. “A potion? What kind of potion, could have that kind of impact though? I've never even heard of such a thing, myself.” replied Cadence, though in the pit of her stomach, she hoped such a potion did exist, but yet Mage Meadowbrook's book, hasn't lead to any leads as of yet, but perhaps... “Yes, a potion. It looks rather complex though. I certainly wouldn't want to try my hooves at it. I'm no potion expert. I think it may be best for you to go talk to Zecora. I could go with you, but I think my time is best spent here looking for anything that might be helpful.” spoke Twilight with a sad gleam in her hues. Cadence used her magic to look over the book, as Twilight handed it to her. Hmm...it did have potential. Though...she couldn't help but have this sinking feeling, Zecora was good, but was she this good? There was only one way to really know. She had to go see her, even a small glimpse of hope, was worth a look. “Thank you, Twilight. I do hope I can bring back good news with me. Shining Armor is counting on us. Please, don't blame yourself. None of this is our faults, if anyone is to blame...it's me for letting him go.” spoke Cadence trying to hide the tears in her eyes. “Cadence...Shining Armor is my brother, I know him just as well as you too, and I know he wouldn't want this. He wouldn't want you to burden yourself with blame. It was an accident, it could have happened to any pony, even ourselves.” spoke Twilight. Cadence knew Twilight was right, she took a deep breath, lifting her hoof up to her chest, her breathing technique to calm her nerves. She then embraced Twilight in a soft hug. “Thank you, Twilight, I couldn't have asked for a better sister in law.” “You're welcome, now go. We have a lot of work ahead of us.” smiled Twilight. Cadence nodded and made her way out of the castle. She wasn't about to give in to the thought that Zecora could heal him, but she wanted to believe it was possible. She knew Zecora would be able to tell her more about this potion, and if it was real, then they had to make it, Shining Armor needed to live...She needed him, just as he needed her now. She bumped right into Starlight Glimmer on her way out of town. “Oh sorry, exuse me.” spoke Starlight trying to be polite. “Oh no worries dear, I'm in a hurry. You're fine.” spoke Cadence and without another word, she left Ponyville, to head into the Ever free Forest. She never did understand why the ponies of Ponyville feared this place so much. It was a rather adventerous place, sure it seemed scary, but there was more to it than that. It had a certain character, and she did enjoy getting out of the palace, though she had hoped to visit Zecora with more pleasant news, rather than the news she currently had. The fact that Twilight hadn't been able to find anything in her books didn't look good...but Twilight's library was massive, and Twilight was still pouring through her books when she had arrived, so she would keep hope alive. Keep fighting, my love. I'm coming... She knocked on the door, politely with the first few taps, and then tapped a little harder again when she didn't hear an answer. What if she wasn't home? She had to be home. After what seemed to her like a few minutes, Zecora came to the door. “Cadence, you seem troubled, what can I do for you?” she questioned towards her with a concerned look on her face. Of course Zecora allowed her inside. Cadence sat down across from where Zecora had decided to sit, as she took a deep breath, and explained the situation to her of what she had heard, and how that her only hopes, might rest in her making a potion. Zecora took a look at the potion and seemed to mutter to herself, before looking back towards Cadence. “A simple potion may be key, in order to save him indeed, but there is no guartnee of it's success. You really want to try and have me brew it? Know it's history, it may have terrible side effects, be careful of the mixtures you brew for you never quite know what it might do.” spoke Zecora. “I understand, but things are rather dire right now. Please, we have to try, I can't lose him...not when I was just about to tell him...about us...” she whispered to Zecora as she leaned her forehead against hers. “He knows not of our bond, does he?” questioned Zecora, Cadence had mentioned another lover, she hadn't yet said who. Of course Shining Armor only had one question, if he was going to be involved, and of course Cadence said yes, she loved Shining too much, to give him up for a simple one night stand, but it was so much more than that with Zecora. After she had assisted her with Flurry Heart, she began to feel the same way about her, that she did about Shining. Zecora, wrapped her hooves around Cadence, simply holding her against her form. Zecora would do her best, Cadence knew that, but she also knew that it would take a miracle to save Shining Armor, she could only hope for a cure. "Rest now, Cadence, I shall see what I can do, for you." spoke Zecora. Cadence nodded her head, and allowed Zecora to work, she knew she'd just get in the way. Author's Note Duh, duh duh! I hope you guy/gals are enjoying this. I am excited to write this idea now, and yes we are getting into the meat of our plot now. Do you think Shining Armor will live, or is his fate tragic? Let me know what you think. And yes I know it's an odd ship, but hey I was inspired, so I just went with it. xD. Chapter 3: GuiltCadence took a deep breath to herself, a heavy sigh escaping her lips, as she looked up into Zecora's eyes, with a sincere and look of shame, tears running down her cheeks. “Oh, Zecora… why? Why did it have to be him? Is it selfish of me to wish it had been some pony else...” sobbed Cadence as she held around Zecora. She didn't want to move from where she was. She clung to hope, even if he might have already been lost to her. She tried to collect herself trying to hold herself together. She HAD to hold herself together, even if every fiber of her being felt like it was falling apart. Her heart and soul desperately held onto the prospect of Shining Armor living through this tragedy. “Trouble, it seems has its way of finding you. There's no telling, my dear, what you've been through,” spoke Zecora softly, as she stroked her hoof over Cadence's soft flowing tricolor mane. Though the shaman didn't want to say it, she knew that hope was fainting minute by minute. Cadence continued to cling to Zecora, like a foal would to their mother. she just couldn't help it, she needed strength, she needed guidance, but she needed comfort most of all, in such a difficult time. “I feel so lost, Zecora. He's the love of my life, and I can't even help him. How am I ever going to tell him about us. I...” she trailed off meekly. Zecora looked down at Cadence, with a simple sigh, and a shake of her head. “The time will never be right for you to address such a plight.” Hearts don't lie, and neither do I.” whispered Zecora, as she lifted up Cadence's chin, theirs eyes meeting one another. “Love doesn't die, so don't be shy. Take a breath, and see that there is more to this, than meets the eye,” Cadence must have known, that she knew how difficult this was for her. “What do I do? Is there a right thing to do?” asked Cadence, her eyes gleamed with desperation and desire. Anything-something-.that would make her feel better. Zecora knew all sorts of things, brewing difficult potions, living off of the land, giving thoughtful advice to her friend. Maybe the zebra had a solution to this whole mess in which she found herself in. “I hold not the key to the answers you seek, I can only comfort you in a time so bleak” Zecora spoke as she nuzzled Cadence. Cadence closed her eyes and tried to imagine white doves flying in the sky, seeing herself walking on clouds, alongside her love, but as she thought, she could see him galloping ahead of her. He hollered back at her, to catch up, but no matter how felt she flied on, he always seemed to be one step ahead of her, until he disappeared into the clouds. “No!!!! Shining come back!” she shouted putting her hooves up into the air, reaching out for something that simply wasn't there. “Rest now, Princess, you will soon find a way. You have been under so much pressure today.,” whispered Zecora. “I'm sorry Zecora, maybe I should just go,” Cadence broke the embrace, “I’ll just take the potion and be on my way, it might be his only chance.” “There is no need to apologize, my dear. It’s time you made your conscience clear,” Zecora assured her.. “Perhaps, some meditation to start, to fill your soul and ease your heart..” “I'm not sure simple meditation, will help, but I'm willing to try anything at this point,” replied Cadence. “Close your eyes, breath in deep...and breath out any troubles that you may keep.” instructed Zecora. Cadence closed her eyes, focusing on what Zecora had told her. She let all the emotions she was feeling flow out, with slow and steady breaths. The thought of Shining Armor, the thought of losing him, The thought of him never knowing about Zecora, and never being able to share her love with them. She thought of almost everything that could possibly go wrong, losing Shining, her citizens hating her, and Twilight shunning her for her actions, but yet...she still felt her heart weighing on her. She opened her eyes to see Zecora staring back at her. “How do you feel?” she asked. “A little better, but I still feel miserable.” sighed Cadence. She was the Princess of Love, and yet she could do nothing to help the one she loved. Though perhaps her other love could help her. “Help me, Zecora. Please, can you make it go away?” “Troubles are always going to be there, in your path, it's knowing how to deal with them, that makes us all stronger within,” spoke Zecora softly. She was so full of wisdom and understanding. Cadence couldn't help but wish that she could be more like her in that sense. It seemed she was always worrying about one thing after another, and she certainly never thought things would get so drastic. What would make her feel relieved? What could possibly take the pressures away? She thought about it, but the only idea coming to mind, and a rather lewd one at that. She thought of how Shining Armor always teased her, when they were alone, and how he could always ease her mind with a little love of his own. He wasn't here to make her feel better, but Zecora was. Did she even dare ask her such a thing? To have the shaman seduce her just to ease her pain? Even merely thinking about it seemed like an awful thing to do, especially without Shining Armor’s approval, but she didn’t know what else she could do. She needed to ease herself of the stress she was under, it was the only way she was going to get through this. Surely he'd understand, wouldn’t he? She could only hope... “Love me,” she whispered looking at Zecora with deep passion in her hues. Zecora looked into Cadence’s eyes, as she held up a hoof. “Your mind is deeply troubled, I know, but are you sure this is the way you want to go?” “Yes, I need this, please...” she begged,holding her tighter. Zecora bit her lip, hesitantly. She knew where this course of action would take them, and she knew it wasn't a wise decision, but she knew Cadence needed her, and desired comfort. She was the only one who could give it to her now. “Very well, my dear,” she replied she gave a heavy sigh. She kissed Cadence upon her lips, delicately at first; She didn't want her to feel rushed. She was surprised when Cadence suddenly deepened the kiss, her tongue dancing with Zecora’s inside her mouth. The striped mare laid Cadence beneath her, the alicorn spreading out her wings on the soft carpet, as she laid down, wrapped both her hooves around Zecora's neck, and trailed kisses from her lips, to her cheeks, to her ears, and then back down to her lips. “Oh Shining...” she whispered losing herself in the moment. “Cadence...” began Zecora, but then she thought better of it. Maybe it was better for the princess to have the delusion that she was Shining Armor. Zecora then stroked her hooves over Cadence’s mane as she nibbled at her ear-softly. Soft enough to feel pleasure, but not to feel pain. Cadence whimpered against Zecora. “Oh...please more.” she begged. “More, what my dear?” she whispered into the ear, as she licked the inside of it in a teasing fashion. “Love me...” she moaned with a sad look in her eyes. “Please… I need you.” “I will always love you, darling,” replied Zecora. It was difficult to keep her words from rhyming., but if she did, then the illusion would cease to be, Zecora knew she needed to make it feel like she was Shining Armor, even though she knew never would be; she wanted to ease Cadence's worries, even if it was just for a moment. Zecora then held Cadence close as she trailed her kisses down from her ear, to her cheeks, to her lips, and then to her neck. She paused slightly when she got to her neckline, kissing it over and over, taking a pause between each kiss to make her want it all the more. “Mhmm...” whispered Cadence through a few ragged breaths. She couldn't stand this, she wanted her now, “More...” Zecora then pushed her lips to hers in a sensational kiss, while trailing her free hoofalong her delicate fur as she felt down her forelegs. She started at Cadence’s shoulder blade and slowly made her way down to her hoof. She then used the hoof that held her to tease the feathers of her wings, giving each tip a gentle and steady stroke. “Oh!” whimpered Cadence as she looked up at Zecora, “Please, don't tease me love. I need you.” The sensations all along her body, felt just like when Shing made love to her. Zecora couldn't help but smirk softly and nip at Cadence's ears lovingly. She ran her tongue along the inside and then started to trail it down her body, lapping her up with kisses and licks, until at last she found her way to a more delicate spot; her soft,moist womanhood. She moved her tongue swiftly, using it to find her clit and continuing to pleasure her. She could hear Cadence whimpering-moaning for her to just screw her already. Zecora knew this was what she imagined Shining must do when they made love to each other. To love her so much, to give her such a pleasurable experience, lust and love could be combined. Zecora continued to pleasure Cadence for several more minutes before she re-positioned herself on top of the alicorn to try a different approach, she was no stallion, so she didn't have the part that she was sure Cadence always looked forward too, but that didn't mean they still couldn't have some fun. She continued to pleasure her clit , and had one hoof tenderly rubbing her chest in a circular motion. Zecora then moved her other hoof, that had been playing with her wings, down to her flank and squeezed it lovingly, Cadence moaned even more passionately under her loving touch. Zecora then sped up with her licks. She trailed her tongue into her wetness, she could feel the heat pouring off of Cadence's body. Cadence couldn't take much more of it, she could feel the heat embracing her like a soft warm blanket on a cold winter night. She felt like she was on fire, the sweat running down her face as she panted heavily. She could feel it, she was going to lose it. She bit her lip and tried to hold on, just a little longer. “Zecora...please...take me.” begged Cadence her eyes full of passion, lust and longing. She wasn't sure she could hold it in. “I don't have such an ability, I would have to use a potion for such a thing.” replied Zecora. She knew Cadence wanted more, but she wasn't sure what else she could do to give it to her. It occurred to her she did have a few things laying around that were kind of like a stallion's manhood, but it still wasn't the same. Cadence had powerful magic, she could simply allow Zecora to have that part but she was much too lost in an overwhelming sensation to cast any sort of spell. Zecora just decided to be herself;she could never be Shining Armor so there was no sense in trying to be. She snaked her tongue into her, and she could hear Cadence moaning even louder as she twirled it inside of her.She tenderly rubbed her hooves on the princess’s chest, down her stomach, to her thighs and down her legs, and then tenderly played with her tail. Cadence could feel her climax building...she had to let go. She had to let go...then she released her load into Zecora's mouth, and she instantly felt relief. Relief...it was something she hadn't felt in awhile. Things had just been so stressful, but yet she felt relaxed, as she breathed out a soft breath, as Zecora lapped up her juices, and then looked towards her. “Cadence.” she whispered lovingly, “was I of help to you?” she questioned as she nuzzled her neck affectionately. “Of course, Zecora. I love you. I love you just as much as I love him. Oh Shining…” her eyes became wide with realization, “Oh dear. Shining!” she exclaimed, horrified at what she had done. She had cheated on him with another pony without his blessing. She felt her guilt returning to her again.She felt Zecora put a hoof on her shoulder. “If his love for each other is really true, I am certain he will forgive you.” spoke Zecora Cadence knew that she was right, Shining Armor would forgive her, but how could she forgive herself? “Take this, I wish you the best.” offered Zecora quickly brew the potion she had wanted, when she had first stopped by, and then handed it to her cautiously. “Thank you, Zecora, Shining Armor needs me. I'm glad I had a chance to stop by, to speak with you.” spoke Cadence as she nuzzled against Zecora's muzzle passionately. She stood up accepting the potion from her.As Cadence exited Zecora’s and headed back she felt in the back of her mind she knew she was no princess...she was a wreck. She wished she had told him sooner, Shining Armor could have known about her relationship with Zecora, it was supposed to be all of them, and now she had done the unforgivable. She had cheated on him, while he laid on a hospital bed, with his only chances of recovering being a miracle. She hoped she was holding that miracle in her hooves. She wasn't sure she could face him now, but he was her only chance of making it. She sat outside of the Everfree Forest, and sobbed. She had to face it, had to accept that she wasn't as strong as she thought. She imagined the entire Crystal Empire jeering at her, booing and hissing in disapproval. She imagined Twilight at the front of the crowd, a look of disgust upon her face as she shouted alongside the group. Worst of all, she imagined Shining Armor beyond the scene as he walked towards the train station, not looking back once as he dragged his suitcases behind him. How could he ever forgive her? She wanted to believe in miracles, but right now, she wasn't even sure she could believe in herself, she was the Princess of Love, for Celestia’s sakes! Princesses don't cheat, and they surely didn't lie to the ponies they loved. She knew she had to tell him, he had a right to know. Though, she couldn't move from where he sat; she felt like she weighed like a ton of boulders. She had to go to him, had to tell him, but yet...she was terrified of losing him forever. How could she have done this? She sat there alone , afraid, but most of all she longed for her Shining Armor-she needed him, as much as he needed her. She stood up slowly, she wasn't going to give up.. She would go to him, tell him about her and Zecora. and beg his forgiveness when he woke up. She could only hope it wasn't already too late. Author's Note Apologizing for the short chapter but sadly, I got to work today. I will finish this off with one last chapter hopefully by Monday. I hope you are all enjoying this. And be sure to let me know, if you want the "clop" scene extended. I was nervous about writing it. Chapter 4: RegretsCadence arrived back at the hospital, she took a deep breath as she walked in to Shining Armor's room. It was deadly omnious, and eerily silent. Shining Armor laid still on the bed, it almost seemed like he was just sleeping, resting after a long day's work of being a royal guard. She sighed heavily, wishing he was only sleeping. She knew she didn't even deserve forgiveness, she had done something horrible, while he was fighting for his life, so that he could stay with her. She took his hoof into her own as she nuzzled against his muzzle affectionately. She knew it wouldn't be easy, but life never seemed to be easy for her ever since gaining her horn and becoming an alicorn. “Shining...my love. Forgive me. I...I have been so occupied with ruling the empire that I never told you that I was developing feelings for another. I wanted to tell you, really I did. I just...I guess...I was so stressed to get everything right that I didn't really think about it. “Excuse me, Cadence...” spoke a female voice from behind her. Cadence turned to see who it was, but it was just the nurse, Nurse Red Heart. “Yes?” she questioned. “Can I speak to you...in private?” she asked kindly. “Of course. I'll be right back my love. Wait for me.” she pleaded with him, as she kissed him softly, before standing up and walking away from where Shining Armor laid, to speak with Nurse Red Heart. “I'm afraid...I have something to tell you, about Shining Armor.” began Nurse Red Heart. Cadence's eyes widened, ears drooped, she knew this couldn't be anything good, if the nurse was pulling her away from Shining Armor. “Please, I know this must be hard for you to hear, but I cannot lead you astray...he only has a few hours left. Our magic can't sustain him forever. I need to ask you, are you ready to let him go, if it comes to it?” questioned Red Heart. Cadence heard what she had just said, but she didn't want to believe it. She didn't want to accept that the last memory she would have of her love, was how she had betrayed his trust and love with another, just so she could feel relief from all the stress she had been burdened with. Cadence glanced back towards Shining Armor. “I...let me talk to him. Maybe...I can reach through to him. If he has even a slight chance I have to try.” spoke Cadence. “I understand. Just let me know when you are ready. It can be hard I know to see a loved one so close and yet so far.” replied Red Heart. “I will, please we need our space.” spoke Cadence politely. She did her best to not seem rude, considering the circumstances, but this wasn't the news she had been hoping for, praying for, desperate for. Cadence sat back down next to Shining Armor. It was hard to accept, but she knew Red Heart wouldn't lie to her, or sugar coat things. Shining Armor was dying, and what had she done? She had gone and had sex with Zecora just so she could feel relief. She hadn't known what to do, but commiting such an act was unacceptable for any couple, espicially a married couple with children. “Shining Armor...my love. Forgive me...I'm weak. I need you. Please, don't leave me. I never asked for this to happen. I want us to grow old together, to give Flurry a brother or a sister. It can't end this way...Shining Armor, I can't live without you. Please...please wake up.” sobbed Cadence as her tears began to fall upon Shining Armor's cheeks, one by one, as she tried to compose herself. She didn't know what she could do. She wanted so desperately to see him awaken and to bury herself in his warm embrace, begging his forgivenss. She remembered what Nurse Red Heart had told her. He didn't have much time left...he was fading. She was losing him, and no amount of magic or friendship could reach him. She...could do nothing. She felt so utterly defeated and worthless, and a wreck. She had hurt him, without even meaning too. She would be ridden with guilt and shame for the rest of her life, if this was her last memory of him. She knew it was a long shot, but she couldn't help but reach for the potion Zecora had given her. She paused...could she give him something from the very mare that she had betrayed him with? She hesitated...no Zecora wasn't to blame for any of this. This whole mess was her ordeal, and she had to fix it. “Shining Armor...you've always been my rock, my strength. Whenever I felt weak, I knew I could lean on you. Now, I must ask you once more for strength, please love...don't go. I need you. Without you...what am I? I want there to be an us. I want to be able to hear your silly laugh again, to see you and Flurry cheer me up after a tough day. It can't end here. I know I have no right to ask, after what I did...but please...wake up my love. Wake up, and see how much I love you. I won't give up on you, just as you wouldn't give up on me.” sighed Cadence as she let his hoof fall to his side. She sat there in silence. She didn't move from where she was. She could only hope he would wake up. All the while, thoughts clouded her. She was a horrible Princess. Cheating on her husband, betraying his trust. She closed her eyes as she thought of anything she could do to make it up to him. Perhaps, the only way to make it up to him was to finally be able to hold herself together long enough to say goodbye. She didn't want too. She really didn't want too, but the realization of it, was simply tragic. She gave Shining Armor Zecora's potion by mouth, making sure it went down his throat. Now only time would tell if it would work. Hope was fading, her strength all but dimished but she wouldn't give up. She wouldn't stop believing in him, because he could fight this, he fought things way worse before, like Chrysaslis, and even Tirek. He could do this. She just wasnt' sure she could...she needed him. She only hoped he would awaken soon. Author's Note Thanks to everyone for reading this, and thank you for all the support. Be sure to let me know if you'd like to see a bonus chapter or if or if he doesn't wake up. I want to leave it open sided as it could go either way. Wish me luck in the contest!
Chapter 1: The Worst NewsCadence was beyond horrified when a mail pony came to deliver the news to her. She had just put Flurry Heart to bed, she was finally sleeping more, nowadays, which was good for her, and meant she was able to get sleep as well. Though she still felt pretty exhausted with all the stress she had been under. A lot of people thought she had it easy, but there was nothing easy about being a Princess. Just because she was a Princess, didn't mean she lived a worry free life, she was always worrying about her people, worrying about her daughter, and worrying about her husband. She had opened up the letter, started to read, expecting it to be some boring royal news, that Celestia thought she had to have, but no...she wished it would've been boring royal news, when she got to the point of the letter. She had to reread it twice for it to fully sink in, and even then she didn't want to believe it. “Dear Princess Cadence, I hate to be the one to give you this unfornuate news, there was a severe training accident with our royal guards, most of them just had concussions, and minor injuries...but your husband Shining Armor hasn't woken up since the injury. My sister Luna says he's sleeping, but it's like he can't wake up. I have already sent word to Twilight as well, and she is going to reasearch what she can, but right now, we aren't sure if he'll wake up. It's very important for you, to come see him with a clear mind. Your friend, Celestia. How could this have happened? A severe training accident? Shining always had assured her, he'd always come home to her, and now she would have to go to him. She took a deep sigh. Shining Armor would want her to remain strong and viligiant...but how could she be after hearing such news? She extended her hoof up to her chest, letting out a deep breath. She had to remain calm. She couldn't afford to cause panic in her Kingdom. There was no need to worry them with this news, it was bad enough she had to receive it. She had to get out to see him. She would need a sitter for Flurry, as much as she would have liked to take her with her, she knew it was best for her to stay here. Who could she trust to watch over Flurry? Sure, her immediate thought was Twilight, but if she was looking for clues on to what might wake Shining up, she needed her time to dedicate to that. Who else could she trust? Her first thought was someone from the Crystal Empire, and she was beyond certain that the stallion she thought of, would not only take care of Flurry while she was away, but keep the citizens from panicking with alarm as to why their princess suddenly left with no warnings. It would send panic throughout her Kingdom, and that was the last thing she needed to worry about right now. She had to go attend to Shining Armor, and learn if there was anything she could do to help. There had to be something the doctors could do...he couldn't die. She would be nothing without him. He was her rock, her love, her everything, and if she lost him to an accident, she'd never forgive herself for letting him go. She gathered the basic essentials that she'd need for her trip, and then galloped over towards Sunburst's home. She knocked on his door, hoping he was home. She felt like she waited forever when he finally opened the door. “Oh hey there, Princess Cadence, is there something I can do for you? Or is this about the Flurry?” he questioned as he opened up his door to allow her inside so the two could discuss in private. Princess Cadence was in a hurry, to get to Shining Armor as soon as she could, but she made sure that no pony could hear them. “It's complicated...,” she began as she looked towards Sunburst. “I have to take a trip to Canterlot, Shining Armor....he was in an accident and is unconscious. I can't take Flurry with me, it's best for her to stay here in the Empire. I was hoping...you could watch her for me while I'm away. Hopefully, I'll be back in a few days time, but I want to check up on Shining, talk to the doctors, and go see if there's anything that Twilight might be able to do in the aid of his recovery. However...I'm preparing myself for the worst possible outcome...that he may not wake up. I don't even want to think about it, but Sunburst, I need you now more than ever, to be there for Flurry. Promise me.” she begged Sunburst practically in tears. She managed to hold her tears back, but it was very clear how worried she was. The look in her eyes, how her form was so stiff. There was no doubt this was a most pressing matter. “That is complicated.” replied Sunburst softly. He wasn't sure what to think, or even how much help he could be, but if watching Flurry was the best thing he could do, he would at least try. “I can watch Flurry, just be careful.” spoke Sunburst. “I will be.” replied Princess Cadence, then she stood up and left out the door, in a dash. She flew up into the sky, she wasn't going to wait for a train. She had to get there as soon as she could, and flying was the quickest way of getting there. At least the clouds were in her favor today, there was no rain scheduled so it might flight that much easier. It didn't take her long to get to Canterlot, but it felt like it took forever. During the flight there, she had time to think on a lot of things. What would she do when she saw Shining Armor in such a weakened state? Would she be able to hold herself together? How was she going to confront Twilight about this, and the most important question, what were his chances of waking up...she knew very little about comas, but she knew the rate of waking up from them was rare. The mere thought of never hearing his laugh, never seeing his overreaction to weddings, never having Flurry have her father there to walk her down the aisle someday. These weren't thoughts she wanted in her head, but yet, she couldn't stop thinking about the what if's. She had to be strong...he needed her to be strong, even when she felt so weak without him. “Cadence.” spoke Celestia as she landed down near the Canterlot Palace. She was not at all surprised that Celestia was there waiting to greet her. Celestia wrapped her hooves and wings around Cadence. “I'm so sorry about this. It's a terrible burden to all of us.” began Celestia. It was very clear she was keeping a calm and gentle tone. “Don't be sorry, there's nothing you could do. It's up to the medics now. Surely they can do something, can't they?” she questioned, with a somewhat hopeful look in her eyes. Though, in her mind...she knew what Celestia was going to say. “His chances aren't good. I have talked to the doctors and the nurses. His chances are slim of ever waking up from this. It's called a coma, and if we are lucky you being here will be his saving grave. I know, it's not something any of us want to think, but we can't ignore it either. Ultimately, the final decision will rest in your hooves, and your hooves alone. You are more than welcome to see me anytime you wish, for anything you might need. I'm always here.” spoke Celestia holding her close. Cadence sobbed. She had wanted to avoid seeming like a weak and fragile child, but she was horrified, terrified...of losing the man she loved. She sobbed uncontrollably for what seemed to her like an hour, but was really only a few minutes, as her tears dried up in her eyes. She looked up towards Celestia, who looked straight at her, with a most concerned look. How could she possibly understand what she was going through? She didn't have a husband, a child...sure she had a Kingdom but it wasn't the same. She had more burdens then most ponies knew. She was angry. She didn't want to be the one to affected by this, but here she was. She had to see Shining Armor. She thanked Celestia for her concerns and asked to be led to where Shining Armor was being kept. She knew she wouldn't see the Shining Armor that she knew, when the nurses allowed her into the room. Of course, Shining Armor laid there on the hospital bed, unicorn magic keeping him breathing, and alive. It wasn't the same. She walked in, and sat down on the opposite side of the nurse. “How long has he been like this?” she asked the nurse. The nurse looked to her, with a grim expression. “It's almost been twenty four hours, since the accident. So many of us, are so busy taking care of the ones with concussions, and minor injuries that there's not that many of us left, to watch over a patient...that might not ever wake up. I'm sorry. I wish I could do more, than offer my sympathy. Right now, it's all I can do.” replied Nurse Red Heart. “I appriciate that, really I do. If you don't mind, I would like to be alone with my husband.” spoke Princess Cadence as she put her hooves over his. Despite the fact he wasn't able to hear her or see her, her presence was all he needed. She wasn't going to give up. “Of course.” replied Nurse Red Heart as she stood up and gave Princess Cadence and Shining Armor space. Cadence sighed heavily to herself. She looked to Shining Armor and smoothed out the ruffles of his mane. He deserved to at least look like the soldier he was. “My love...I'm here.” she whispered to him. She knew he could hear her, he had to hear her, he just had to wake up....she felt the tears building up in her eyes, but she wouldn't cry. She wouldn't let him see her cry. She decided to stay with him for now. She planned on visiting Twilight and Zecora. She hoped that someday one of them might be able to do something. She only hoped it wasn't too late to save Shining Armor from dying from this. She tried her self breathing treatment to calm her nerves, but it didn't work. She felt so weak. So many ponies, thought she had it so easy, but she had an entire Kingdom to worry about, a child to take care of, and now she had to be strong when Shining Armor couldn't. It was beyond challenging, she felt like it was impossible, but she wouldn't give up, because she knew if the roles were reversed, he would not give up on her. She had to believe that he WOULD wake up. She couldn't waste another second, she had to go to Ponyville to see Twilight. She was honestly surprised Twilight hadn't already been here, but then again, she was a Princess too and was most likely dealing with issues just like she was. She'd understand the pressures of Princesshood, the two connected a lot more since she had known her since she was little. She had been quite the little energtic foal, when she had been her foal sitter. She hoped perhaps that Twilight's knowledge might clear up some things about this coma, that Celestia simply was unable to answer. She leaned down to kiss Shining Armor on the lips, as a single tear escaped her and landed on his cheek. “I will find a way, my love. Please stay with me.” she begged, and with that she stood up and exited the hospital.
Chapter 2: Be Strong, My LoveCadence knew if anyone had answers, it would be Twilight, that silly filly always did have a strange fasnication with knowledge. Right now, she was relying on that, it might be the only way to save Shining Armor. She couldn't think like that, but it was hard...to ignore the possiblity of it, and what it would mean, not just for her, but for her people too... She landed down in in front of Twilight's castle. It was eerily quiet in the town, which she wasn't sure was a good sign or a sign of ill will news to come...she prayed for hope and she knew she had to be strong...he would be strong in her hooves. She took a deep heavy breath as she hurried in to find Twilight. She wasn't used to the interior of her castle quite yet, but she knew where the main library was. She rushed in to find Twilight Sparkle running back and forth between three piles of books on the floor, as Spike was seen, gathering more books from the upper bookcases. There was no doubt...she knew. “Cadence!” spoke Twilight. Cadence opened up her arms as Twilight came running over to her. She wrapped her hooves and wings around her in a soft, loving embrace. “I've missed you so much...Twilight. We really need to see each other in less stressful times.” she spoke with a heavy sigh. Twilight looked towards her with a droop of her ears. “I heard about my brother...I've been spending every second I could, trying to find anything that could be of use. Of course my knowledge is vastly limited, I'm not a healer, and who knows if Mage Meadowbrook would even know how to cure this! If there's a cure...He's my brother. How did this happen?” she questioned. She had every right and reason to be upset, just as much as I was saddened, yet horrified at the news. Twilight was probably taking this even harder than me, because she was Shining Armor's little sister. She could only imagine how much stress she was under right now. She had saved Equestria many times, but if she wasn't able to save her brother, Cadence was sure she would think she was a failure. Cadence didn't plan to let her think that, or even want to believe that notion. She shook her head back and forth. No...there was no time to waste. “What books have you looked through? Is there anything I can do to help?” questioned Cadence. Even if it was simply reading, or gathering books like Spike was, or even taking notes. Anything she could do to speed up the process, because if the nurse was indeed right in her own knowledge of comas, Shining Armor didn't have long yet to live, and the only thing tying him to this world right now was the nurse's magic and knowledge of what was going on. “I've poured through most of my collection of medical remedies, and I have yet to find anything that useful. Though, it says here in this book, that there's an old potion that could wake up a comptosed patient, but it's only a fifty fifty shot of it even working, and even then, the only one that knows potion making, is Zecora. Perhaps we should go see her.” suggested Twilight. “A potion? What kind of potion, could have that kind of impact though? I've never even heard of such a thing, myself.” replied Cadence, though in the pit of her stomach, she hoped such a potion did exist, but yet Mage Meadowbrook's book, hasn't lead to any leads as of yet, but perhaps... “Yes, a potion. It looks rather complex though. I certainly wouldn't want to try my hooves at it. I'm no potion expert. I think it may be best for you to go talk to Zecora. I could go with you, but I think my time is best spent here looking for anything that might be helpful.” spoke Twilight with a sad gleam in her hues. Cadence used her magic to look over the book, as Twilight handed it to her. Hmm...it did have potential. Though...she couldn't help but have this sinking feeling, Zecora was good, but was she this good? There was only one way to really know. She had to go see her, even a small glimpse of hope, was worth a look. “Thank you, Twilight. I do hope I can bring back good news with me. Shining Armor is counting on us. Please, don't blame yourself. None of this is our faults, if anyone is to blame...it's me for letting him go.” spoke Cadence trying to hide the tears in her eyes. “Cadence...Shining Armor is my brother, I know him just as well as you too, and I know he wouldn't want this. He wouldn't want you to burden yourself with blame. It was an accident, it could have happened to any pony, even ourselves.” spoke Twilight. Cadence knew Twilight was right, she took a deep breath, lifting her hoof up to her chest, her breathing technique to calm her nerves. She then embraced Twilight in a soft hug. “Thank you, Twilight, I couldn't have asked for a better sister in law.” “You're welcome, now go. We have a lot of work ahead of us.” smiled Twilight. Cadence nodded and made her way out of the castle. She wasn't about to give in to the thought that Zecora could heal him, but she wanted to believe it was possible. She knew Zecora would be able to tell her more about this potion, and if it was real, then they had to make it, Shining Armor needed to live...She needed him, just as he needed her now. She bumped right into Starlight Glimmer on her way out of town. “Oh sorry, exuse me.” spoke Starlight trying to be polite. “Oh no worries dear, I'm in a hurry. You're fine.” spoke Cadence and without another word, she left Ponyville, to head into the Ever free Forest. She never did understand why the ponies of Ponyville feared this place so much. It was a rather adventerous place, sure it seemed scary, but there was more to it than that. It had a certain character, and she did enjoy getting out of the palace, though she had hoped to visit Zecora with more pleasant news, rather than the news she currently had. The fact that Twilight hadn't been able to find anything in her books didn't look good...but Twilight's library was massive, and Twilight was still pouring through her books when she had arrived, so she would keep hope alive. Keep fighting, my love. I'm coming... She knocked on the door, politely with the first few taps, and then tapped a little harder again when she didn't hear an answer. What if she wasn't home? She had to be home. After what seemed to her like a few minutes, Zecora came to the door. “Cadence, you seem troubled, what can I do for you?” she questioned towards her with a concerned look on her face. Of course Zecora allowed her inside. Cadence sat down across from where Zecora had decided to sit, as she took a deep breath, and explained the situation to her of what she had heard, and how that her only hopes, might rest in her making a potion. Zecora took a look at the potion and seemed to mutter to herself, before looking back towards Cadence. “A simple potion may be key, in order to save him indeed, but there is no guartnee of it's success. You really want to try and have me brew it? Know it's history, it may have terrible side effects, be careful of the mixtures you brew for you never quite know what it might do.” spoke Zecora. “I understand, but things are rather dire right now. Please, we have to try, I can't lose him...not when I was just about to tell him...about us...” she whispered to Zecora as she leaned her forehead against hers. “He knows not of our bond, does he?” questioned Zecora, Cadence had mentioned another lover, she hadn't yet said who. Of course Shining Armor only had one question, if he was going to be involved, and of course Cadence said yes, she loved Shining too much, to give him up for a simple one night stand, but it was so much more than that with Zecora. After she had assisted her with Flurry Heart, she began to feel the same way about her, that she did about Shining. Zecora, wrapped her hooves around Cadence, simply holding her against her form. Zecora would do her best, Cadence knew that, but she also knew that it would take a miracle to save Shining Armor, she could only hope for a cure. "Rest now, Cadence, I shall see what I can do, for you." spoke Zecora. Cadence nodded her head, and allowed Zecora to work, she knew she'd just get in the way. Author's Note Duh, duh duh! I hope you guy/gals are enjoying this. I am excited to write this idea now, and yes we are getting into the meat of our plot now. Do you think Shining Armor will live, or is his fate tragic? Let me know what you think. And yes I know it's an odd ship, but hey I was inspired, so I just went with it. xD.
Chapter 3: GuiltCadence took a deep breath to herself, a heavy sigh escaping her lips, as she looked up into Zecora's eyes, with a sincere and look of shame, tears running down her cheeks. “Oh, Zecora… why? Why did it have to be him? Is it selfish of me to wish it had been some pony else...” sobbed Cadence as she held around Zecora. She didn't want to move from where she was. She clung to hope, even if he might have already been lost to her. She tried to collect herself trying to hold herself together. She HAD to hold herself together, even if every fiber of her being felt like it was falling apart. Her heart and soul desperately held onto the prospect of Shining Armor living through this tragedy. “Trouble, it seems has its way of finding you. There's no telling, my dear, what you've been through,” spoke Zecora softly, as she stroked her hoof over Cadence's soft flowing tricolor mane. Though the shaman didn't want to say it, she knew that hope was fainting minute by minute. Cadence continued to cling to Zecora, like a foal would to their mother. she just couldn't help it, she needed strength, she needed guidance, but she needed comfort most of all, in such a difficult time. “I feel so lost, Zecora. He's the love of my life, and I can't even help him. How am I ever going to tell him about us. I...” she trailed off meekly. Zecora looked down at Cadence, with a simple sigh, and a shake of her head. “The time will never be right for you to address such a plight.” Hearts don't lie, and neither do I.” whispered Zecora, as she lifted up Cadence's chin, theirs eyes meeting one another. “Love doesn't die, so don't be shy. Take a breath, and see that there is more to this, than meets the eye,” Cadence must have known, that she knew how difficult this was for her. “What do I do? Is there a right thing to do?” asked Cadence, her eyes gleamed with desperation and desire. Anything-something-.that would make her feel better. Zecora knew all sorts of things, brewing difficult potions, living off of the land, giving thoughtful advice to her friend. Maybe the zebra had a solution to this whole mess in which she found herself in. “I hold not the key to the answers you seek, I can only comfort you in a time so bleak” Zecora spoke as she nuzzled Cadence. Cadence closed her eyes and tried to imagine white doves flying in the sky, seeing herself walking on clouds, alongside her love, but as she thought, she could see him galloping ahead of her. He hollered back at her, to catch up, but no matter how felt she flied on, he always seemed to be one step ahead of her, until he disappeared into the clouds. “No!!!! Shining come back!” she shouted putting her hooves up into the air, reaching out for something that simply wasn't there. “Rest now, Princess, you will soon find a way. You have been under so much pressure today.,” whispered Zecora. “I'm sorry Zecora, maybe I should just go,” Cadence broke the embrace, “I’ll just take the potion and be on my way, it might be his only chance.” “There is no need to apologize, my dear. It’s time you made your conscience clear,” Zecora assured her.. “Perhaps, some meditation to start, to fill your soul and ease your heart..” “I'm not sure simple meditation, will help, but I'm willing to try anything at this point,” replied Cadence. “Close your eyes, breath in deep...and breath out any troubles that you may keep.” instructed Zecora. Cadence closed her eyes, focusing on what Zecora had told her. She let all the emotions she was feeling flow out, with slow and steady breaths. The thought of Shining Armor, the thought of losing him, The thought of him never knowing about Zecora, and never being able to share her love with them. She thought of almost everything that could possibly go wrong, losing Shining, her citizens hating her, and Twilight shunning her for her actions, but yet...she still felt her heart weighing on her. She opened her eyes to see Zecora staring back at her. “How do you feel?” she asked. “A little better, but I still feel miserable.” sighed Cadence. She was the Princess of Love, and yet she could do nothing to help the one she loved. Though perhaps her other love could help her. “Help me, Zecora. Please, can you make it go away?” “Troubles are always going to be there, in your path, it's knowing how to deal with them, that makes us all stronger within,” spoke Zecora softly. She was so full of wisdom and understanding. Cadence couldn't help but wish that she could be more like her in that sense. It seemed she was always worrying about one thing after another, and she certainly never thought things would get so drastic. What would make her feel relieved? What could possibly take the pressures away? She thought about it, but the only idea coming to mind, and a rather lewd one at that. She thought of how Shining Armor always teased her, when they were alone, and how he could always ease her mind with a little love of his own. He wasn't here to make her feel better, but Zecora was. Did she even dare ask her such a thing? To have the shaman seduce her just to ease her pain? Even merely thinking about it seemed like an awful thing to do, especially without Shining Armor’s approval, but she didn’t know what else she could do. She needed to ease herself of the stress she was under, it was the only way she was going to get through this. Surely he'd understand, wouldn’t he? She could only hope... “Love me,” she whispered looking at Zecora with deep passion in her hues. Zecora looked into Cadence’s eyes, as she held up a hoof. “Your mind is deeply troubled, I know, but are you sure this is the way you want to go?” “Yes, I need this, please...” she begged,holding her tighter. Zecora bit her lip, hesitantly. She knew where this course of action would take them, and she knew it wasn't a wise decision, but she knew Cadence needed her, and desired comfort. She was the only one who could give it to her now. “Very well, my dear,” she replied she gave a heavy sigh. She kissed Cadence upon her lips, delicately at first; She didn't want her to feel rushed. She was surprised when Cadence suddenly deepened the kiss, her tongue dancing with Zecora’s inside her mouth. The striped mare laid Cadence beneath her, the alicorn spreading out her wings on the soft carpet, as she laid down, wrapped both her hooves around Zecora's neck, and trailed kisses from her lips, to her cheeks, to her ears, and then back down to her lips. “Oh Shining...” she whispered losing herself in the moment. “Cadence...” began Zecora, but then she thought better of it. Maybe it was better for the princess to have the delusion that she was Shining Armor. Zecora then stroked her hooves over Cadence’s mane as she nibbled at her ear-softly. Soft enough to feel pleasure, but not to feel pain. Cadence whimpered against Zecora. “Oh...please more.” she begged. “More, what my dear?” she whispered into the ear, as she licked the inside of it in a teasing fashion. “Love me...” she moaned with a sad look in her eyes. “Please… I need you.” “I will always love you, darling,” replied Zecora. It was difficult to keep her words from rhyming., but if she did, then the illusion would cease to be, Zecora knew she needed to make it feel like she was Shining Armor, even though she knew never would be; she wanted to ease Cadence's worries, even if it was just for a moment. Zecora then held Cadence close as she trailed her kisses down from her ear, to her cheeks, to her lips, and then to her neck. She paused slightly when she got to her neckline, kissing it over and over, taking a pause between each kiss to make her want it all the more. “Mhmm...” whispered Cadence through a few ragged breaths. She couldn't stand this, she wanted her now, “More...” Zecora then pushed her lips to hers in a sensational kiss, while trailing her free hoofalong her delicate fur as she felt down her forelegs. She started at Cadence’s shoulder blade and slowly made her way down to her hoof. She then used the hoof that held her to tease the feathers of her wings, giving each tip a gentle and steady stroke. “Oh!” whimpered Cadence as she looked up at Zecora, “Please, don't tease me love. I need you.” The sensations all along her body, felt just like when Shing made love to her. Zecora couldn't help but smirk softly and nip at Cadence's ears lovingly. She ran her tongue along the inside and then started to trail it down her body, lapping her up with kisses and licks, until at last she found her way to a more delicate spot; her soft,moist womanhood. She moved her tongue swiftly, using it to find her clit and continuing to pleasure her. She could hear Cadence whimpering-moaning for her to just screw her already. Zecora knew this was what she imagined Shining must do when they made love to each other. To love her so much, to give her such a pleasurable experience, lust and love could be combined. Zecora continued to pleasure Cadence for several more minutes before she re-positioned herself on top of the alicorn to try a different approach, she was no stallion, so she didn't have the part that she was sure Cadence always looked forward too, but that didn't mean they still couldn't have some fun. She continued to pleasure her clit , and had one hoof tenderly rubbing her chest in a circular motion. Zecora then moved her other hoof, that had been playing with her wings, down to her flank and squeezed it lovingly, Cadence moaned even more passionately under her loving touch. Zecora then sped up with her licks. She trailed her tongue into her wetness, she could feel the heat pouring off of Cadence's body. Cadence couldn't take much more of it, she could feel the heat embracing her like a soft warm blanket on a cold winter night. She felt like she was on fire, the sweat running down her face as she panted heavily. She could feel it, she was going to lose it. She bit her lip and tried to hold on, just a little longer. “Zecora...please...take me.” begged Cadence her eyes full of passion, lust and longing. She wasn't sure she could hold it in. “I don't have such an ability, I would have to use a potion for such a thing.” replied Zecora. She knew Cadence wanted more, but she wasn't sure what else she could do to give it to her. It occurred to her she did have a few things laying around that were kind of like a stallion's manhood, but it still wasn't the same. Cadence had powerful magic, she could simply allow Zecora to have that part but she was much too lost in an overwhelming sensation to cast any sort of spell. Zecora just decided to be herself;she could never be Shining Armor so there was no sense in trying to be. She snaked her tongue into her, and she could hear Cadence moaning even louder as she twirled it inside of her.She tenderly rubbed her hooves on the princess’s chest, down her stomach, to her thighs and down her legs, and then tenderly played with her tail. Cadence could feel her climax building...she had to let go. She had to let go...then she released her load into Zecora's mouth, and she instantly felt relief. Relief...it was something she hadn't felt in awhile. Things had just been so stressful, but yet she felt relaxed, as she breathed out a soft breath, as Zecora lapped up her juices, and then looked towards her. “Cadence.” she whispered lovingly, “was I of help to you?” she questioned as she nuzzled her neck affectionately. “Of course, Zecora. I love you. I love you just as much as I love him. Oh Shining…” her eyes became wide with realization, “Oh dear. Shining!” she exclaimed, horrified at what she had done. She had cheated on him with another pony without his blessing. She felt her guilt returning to her again.She felt Zecora put a hoof on her shoulder. “If his love for each other is really true, I am certain he will forgive you.” spoke Zecora Cadence knew that she was right, Shining Armor would forgive her, but how could she forgive herself? “Take this, I wish you the best.” offered Zecora quickly brew the potion she had wanted, when she had first stopped by, and then handed it to her cautiously. “Thank you, Zecora, Shining Armor needs me. I'm glad I had a chance to stop by, to speak with you.” spoke Cadence as she nuzzled against Zecora's muzzle passionately. She stood up accepting the potion from her.As Cadence exited Zecora’s and headed back she felt in the back of her mind she knew she was no princess...she was a wreck. She wished she had told him sooner, Shining Armor could have known about her relationship with Zecora, it was supposed to be all of them, and now she had done the unforgivable. She had cheated on him, while he laid on a hospital bed, with his only chances of recovering being a miracle. She hoped she was holding that miracle in her hooves. She wasn't sure she could face him now, but he was her only chance of making it. She sat outside of the Everfree Forest, and sobbed. She had to face it, had to accept that she wasn't as strong as she thought. She imagined the entire Crystal Empire jeering at her, booing and hissing in disapproval. She imagined Twilight at the front of the crowd, a look of disgust upon her face as she shouted alongside the group. Worst of all, she imagined Shining Armor beyond the scene as he walked towards the train station, not looking back once as he dragged his suitcases behind him. How could he ever forgive her? She wanted to believe in miracles, but right now, she wasn't even sure she could believe in herself, she was the Princess of Love, for Celestia’s sakes! Princesses don't cheat, and they surely didn't lie to the ponies they loved. She knew she had to tell him, he had a right to know. Though, she couldn't move from where he sat; she felt like she weighed like a ton of boulders. She had to go to him, had to tell him, but yet...she was terrified of losing him forever. How could she have done this? She sat there alone , afraid, but most of all she longed for her Shining Armor-she needed him, as much as he needed her. She stood up slowly, she wasn't going to give up.. She would go to him, tell him about her and Zecora. and beg his forgiveness when he woke up. She could only hope it wasn't already too late. Author's Note Apologizing for the short chapter but sadly, I got to work today. I will finish this off with one last chapter hopefully by Monday. I hope you are all enjoying this. And be sure to let me know, if you want the "clop" scene extended. I was nervous about writing it.
Chapter 4: RegretsCadence arrived back at the hospital, she took a deep breath as she walked in to Shining Armor's room. It was deadly omnious, and eerily silent. Shining Armor laid still on the bed, it almost seemed like he was just sleeping, resting after a long day's work of being a royal guard. She sighed heavily, wishing he was only sleeping. She knew she didn't even deserve forgiveness, she had done something horrible, while he was fighting for his life, so that he could stay with her. She took his hoof into her own as she nuzzled against his muzzle affectionately. She knew it wouldn't be easy, but life never seemed to be easy for her ever since gaining her horn and becoming an alicorn. “Shining...my love. Forgive me. I...I have been so occupied with ruling the empire that I never told you that I was developing feelings for another. I wanted to tell you, really I did. I just...I guess...I was so stressed to get everything right that I didn't really think about it. “Excuse me, Cadence...” spoke a female voice from behind her. Cadence turned to see who it was, but it was just the nurse, Nurse Red Heart. “Yes?” she questioned. “Can I speak to you...in private?” she asked kindly. “Of course. I'll be right back my love. Wait for me.” she pleaded with him, as she kissed him softly, before standing up and walking away from where Shining Armor laid, to speak with Nurse Red Heart. “I'm afraid...I have something to tell you, about Shining Armor.” began Nurse Red Heart. Cadence's eyes widened, ears drooped, she knew this couldn't be anything good, if the nurse was pulling her away from Shining Armor. “Please, I know this must be hard for you to hear, but I cannot lead you astray...he only has a few hours left. Our magic can't sustain him forever. I need to ask you, are you ready to let him go, if it comes to it?” questioned Red Heart. Cadence heard what she had just said, but she didn't want to believe it. She didn't want to accept that the last memory she would have of her love, was how she had betrayed his trust and love with another, just so she could feel relief from all the stress she had been burdened with. Cadence glanced back towards Shining Armor. “I...let me talk to him. Maybe...I can reach through to him. If he has even a slight chance I have to try.” spoke Cadence. “I understand. Just let me know when you are ready. It can be hard I know to see a loved one so close and yet so far.” replied Red Heart. “I will, please we need our space.” spoke Cadence politely. She did her best to not seem rude, considering the circumstances, but this wasn't the news she had been hoping for, praying for, desperate for. Cadence sat back down next to Shining Armor. It was hard to accept, but she knew Red Heart wouldn't lie to her, or sugar coat things. Shining Armor was dying, and what had she done? She had gone and had sex with Zecora just so she could feel relief. She hadn't known what to do, but commiting such an act was unacceptable for any couple, espicially a married couple with children. “Shining Armor...my love. Forgive me...I'm weak. I need you. Please, don't leave me. I never asked for this to happen. I want us to grow old together, to give Flurry a brother or a sister. It can't end this way...Shining Armor, I can't live without you. Please...please wake up.” sobbed Cadence as her tears began to fall upon Shining Armor's cheeks, one by one, as she tried to compose herself. She didn't know what she could do. She wanted so desperately to see him awaken and to bury herself in his warm embrace, begging his forgivenss. She remembered what Nurse Red Heart had told her. He didn't have much time left...he was fading. She was losing him, and no amount of magic or friendship could reach him. She...could do nothing. She felt so utterly defeated and worthless, and a wreck. She had hurt him, without even meaning too. She would be ridden with guilt and shame for the rest of her life, if this was her last memory of him. She knew it was a long shot, but she couldn't help but reach for the potion Zecora had given her. She paused...could she give him something from the very mare that she had betrayed him with? She hesitated...no Zecora wasn't to blame for any of this. This whole mess was her ordeal, and she had to fix it. “Shining Armor...you've always been my rock, my strength. Whenever I felt weak, I knew I could lean on you. Now, I must ask you once more for strength, please love...don't go. I need you. Without you...what am I? I want there to be an us. I want to be able to hear your silly laugh again, to see you and Flurry cheer me up after a tough day. It can't end here. I know I have no right to ask, after what I did...but please...wake up my love. Wake up, and see how much I love you. I won't give up on you, just as you wouldn't give up on me.” sighed Cadence as she let his hoof fall to his side. She sat there in silence. She didn't move from where she was. She could only hope he would wake up. All the while, thoughts clouded her. She was a horrible Princess. Cheating on her husband, betraying his trust. She closed her eyes as she thought of anything she could do to make it up to him. Perhaps, the only way to make it up to him was to finally be able to hold herself together long enough to say goodbye. She didn't want too. She really didn't want too, but the realization of it, was simply tragic. She gave Shining Armor Zecora's potion by mouth, making sure it went down his throat. Now only time would tell if it would work. Hope was fading, her strength all but dimished but she wouldn't give up. She wouldn't stop believing in him, because he could fight this, he fought things way worse before, like Chrysaslis, and even Tirek. He could do this. She just wasnt' sure she could...she needed him. She only hoped he would awaken soon. Author's Note Thanks to everyone for reading this, and thank you for all the support. Be sure to let me know if you'd like to see a bonus chapter or if or if he doesn't wake up. I want to leave it open sided as it could go either way. Wish me luck in the contest!
