Showing His Place: Sacrifice

One Hour Later

Shining Armor looked like an absolute shell of the stallion he was prior, even as he sat all alone in the Royal Bedroom. No matter how badly he tried to distract his looming thoughts, he couldn’t stop thinking about the monumental action he ended up fulfilling back at the Formal. He knew that Sombra was likely to implement something truly diabolical, even alongside his current gelding procedure. But even with all the promises that fiend made over the past couple days, Shining would’ve never expected to have heard that specific order while they were out on the balcony earlier that night.

“Private Shining Armor… I hereby order you to publicly step down as Prince before the Crystal Empire~”

Shining should’ve known that Sombra would push his limits as far as he could possibly go, especially after his slave basically fanned the flames with that proclamation he gave just minutes beforehoof. In retrospect, Shining wished that he hadn’t gone so far as to give such praise to the stallion who overtook his life in so many varying ways; but at the same time, Shining wasn’t sure if much of what he said was necessarily much of a lie, or even exaggeration. He was sure that those thoughts were merely a side-effect of his treatment by Sombra, and that his actions beneath him were basically an avalanche of trauma and heartache that would take forever to overcome. But alas, as he sat alone on his bed, Shining Armor knew that it didn’t mean much anymore. As of now, he was no longer a Co-Ruler of the Crystal Empire.

After his public decree to the ponies he swore to protect, he was officially a Prince no more.

“Uuuuughhhhhhh…” Shining lurched his head down with a heavy sigh, mostly because he couldn’t do much else when that realization hit him like a brick. Even after all the assurances Sombra made about maintaining the status quo between himself and the Crystal Empire’s rightful rulers, it seemingly wasn’t enough to keep him from causing some chaos without the aid of Discord. Shining seemed to recall his Owner being chastised a little by Cadance and Twilight, but he could barely remember much while he was reeling in shock. In fact, after he gave that unceremonious kiss to Sombra’s ass, his mind was left in a near-total blank as he wandered back to his bedroom like a zombie.

He was fortunate that nopony tried to stop him, since he was at a loss of words on his trek back through the castle. After all the years he spent making himself one of Equestria’s most powerful stallions, he was apparently willing to throw it all away to appease a former villain’s sadistic whims. And to make matters worse, Shining knew deep-down that he couldn’t just blame Sombra for what he just did; after all, even with all the “legal” paperwork he had to sign, it wasn’t like he had to resign before the Crystal Empire like that. He could’ve easily just refused, and Sombra wouldn’t have been able to stop him.

Of course, that didn’t matter anymore. Even with all the “What if’s” running through his head, it didn’t mean anything after he left that stage. As soon as those words came out of his muzzle, and he felt that sharp pressure clenching around his balls like a vice, he knew that he sealed his fate. Not only did he leave a status that most ponies would’ve killed to achieve, but he also allowed for the stallion who ordered it to take his very manhood as well.

He didn’t even want to look down between his legs, since he could feel how painfully his balls were caught within the tight confines of that castrating band. Sure, he may have currently still had his testicles, but he knew that wouldn’t last for very long. Unless somepony came by to free him from this emasculating bondage, he would be rendered a gelding soon enough by Sombra’s perverted wishes. He knew he could’ve easily just tried to cut the band himself, and save the slightest semblance of his masculinity after his Owner took so much else away. Unfortunately, even with the throbbing pain he felt around his balls, that wasn’t all he felt between his legs; since his chastity cage was still on, he was able to feel how badly his member was straining within the metal confines.

And with that, Shining was given that mortifying proof that despite his issues, this was exactly what he wanted. Just like Sombra, his slave wanted this fate to befall him in the end.

“Oh, goddess…” Those were the first two words to come out of Shining’s mouth since he left the stage an hour prior. He slumped his head forward while seated on the bed, and covered his face with both hooves to cover his remorseful look. He was grateful that he had a moment to reflect on things, and not be bothered by anypony after such a significant event. But at the same time, his loneliness only exassivated how badly he screwed up as he awaited the aftermath of his decisions. “Ugh… I really hope Cadance isn’t mad…”

Right as those words came out of his mouth, his ears perked up when he heard the doors of the bedroom opening up. He turned from the bed to see his Ex-Wife trotting into the room, looking extremely disheveled with heavy bags hung under her eyes. Even with that immaculate dress that accentuated her belly-bump, the Princess looked like she aged at least a decade since Shining’s speech. However, he wasn’t sure if her appearance was because of himself, or whatever she had to deal with from her Aunts following his departure.

“Uhhh… C-Cadance?” Shining got up from the bed, and walked up towards Cadance while she stood silent. She was looking down at the ground between them, her luscious mane helping to hide whatever expression she was carrying. Shining looked unbelievably worried, but he tried to reach a hoof out while speaking softly. “Is… Is everything alri--”

SMACK!!!

Shining Armor couldn’t have said that he was completely shocked by his Ex’s response, since he was aware how much he deserved a slap to the face following his resignation. But at the same time, he was still taken aback enough to stand in stunned silence, his eyes as wide as dinner plates. There was already a sizable red mark across his left cheek, not that it made Cadance’s expression any less livid as she glared up at him furiously.

“WHAT THE HELL IS WRONG WITH YOU, SHINING?!?”

SMACK!!!

Cadance delivered another brutal slap to his face, which Shining didn’t even try to defend himself from.

“ARE YOU INSANE?! DO YOU HAVE ANY IDEA HOW BAD THIS IS?!? WE’RE SUPPOSED TO RULE OVER THE CRYSTAL EMPIRE TOGETHER, AND YOU JUST LEFT IT ALL ON MY LAP!?!”

SMACK!!!

Cadance only had enough in her to deliver one last slap to Shining’s other cheek, before she stopped herself and took a couple steps back. Her eyes were clenched tightly shut, and she tried her hardest not to grimace too badly while her face pointed away from Shining. The former Prince couldn’t even look back at her, and had his eyes closed shut while his muzzle trembled. While he may have been hurt from her response -- both physically and emotionally -- he couldn’t blame her one bit for how lividly she reacted. In the end, Shining was fully aware that he affected her just as badly as himself.

“Nnnnfffff…” Cadance winced while fanning her hoof, clearly in pain from how hard she slapped him three times in a row. Shining may have been the more guilty pony between them, but the Princess still said with a sigh, “I’m sorry… I’m sorry, Shining. Y-You didn’t deserve three of those…”

Shining couldn’t even say anything, and just looked away from her while rubbing his cheek with a hoof. “It… I-It’s alright, Cadance… I’m not mad, I swear…”

While he may have said that genuinely, Shining’s voice still came out rather frail as he stood before his Ex. He could barely stand while his knees were fidgeting, although it was unclear whether that was because of his worries with Cadance, or from his obvious physical ailments. Regardless of the reason, it was hard for Cadance to maintain much of a bitter scowl when she saw how defeated he looked. Even though she still had half a mind to continue rightfully chewing him out, she eventually closed her eyes and breathed out calmly.

“Okay… Okay…” After settling herself down, Cadance looked back at her Ex and said, “Well… Just so you know, it doesn’t seem like any of the public is aware of Sombra’s involvement in… that. Except maybe Discord, but all he did was congratulate me and refer to you as ‘Prince Harry’ for some reason. If anything, the masses all seem to believe that story you gave about wanting to be a stay-at-home father…”

Shining knew that he shouldn’t have been too thrilled about that detail, but he was still able to sigh in slight relief. Considering how Sombra worded the order itself, Shining had no idea how he could successfully comply with it while making it feel like a natural decision. While it certainly wasn’t enough to get him off scot-free, Shining tried to respond with a shrug of his shoulders. “Well, I mean… that’s good to know, right?”

Shining tried to give his Ex a nervous smile, but it was instantly dampened when he saw her venomous glare. The instant he shut his muzzle tightly, Cadance said through gritted teeth, “Do I need to remind you that you just made me the sole ruler of an entire Empire?! While I’m fucking pregnant?!”

Shining instantly looked away from her with a heavy cringe. Even with all the excuses he could’ve tried to give, he knew that what he did was extremely shitty for his Ex’s sake. As his ears dropped down to the sides of his head, he tried his hardest to say guiltily, “I… I-I was told to--”

“Don’t you DARE try to blame Sombra on this!” snapped Cadance angrily. “Yes, I know that I made you our slave! And yes, I know that you two had some weird ‘deal’ in regards to him ordering you around without limits! He told me about all that before I came up here.”

Shining instantly looked back at her wide-eyed. “Wait, you knew about that?! When?!”

“After I threatened to castrate Sombra with my teeth downstairs! The instant he realized how much he fucked up with that order, he spilled everything in an instant to us!” She then leaned in close with a hoof prodding Shining’s chest. “But I ALSO told Sombra that he couldn’t do anything to endanger our lives, remember?! You were in this very room when I told him that! And you still went behind my back and agreed to that stupid order anyway?!”

“W-Well, what did you expect me to do?!” Shining knew he didn’t have much of a hoof to stand on, but he still tried his hardest to defend himself. “I-It’s not like you or Sombra were trying to hold back tonight! How was I supposed to know that being gelded is fine, but resigning from the throne wasn’t?!”

Cadance was just about to give a retort, but paused while her muzzle was wide-open. After a moment of silence, the Princess closed her eyes and let out a long, shuddering breath. Her head hung low before she could say begrudgingly, “I… I can’t even say anything about that…”

Shining wasn’t sure if she meant his statement was factually correct, or if it was so ridiculous that it left her at a loss for words. But regardless, the former Prince tried not to say anything during her awkward pause. He waited a moment before deciding to ask, “So, ummm… where is Sombra right now?”

That question caused her to lift her head back up and say with a sharp sigh, “Well, the last time I saw him, he was being interrogated by my Aunts to figure out how much damage he caused around here. Both of them are already aware of the marriage, as well as the pregnancies he caused.”

Shining had to struggle not to wince in intense worry. “Ugh… they didn’t treat you too harshly, did they?”

“Well, not while I had this,” she said while rubbing her swollen belly. “Twilight tried to talk her way out of things, but that just got her caught in a sound-bubble with Celestia for a massive lecturing. Apparently, getting impregnated by a former villain before becoming Equestria’s new ruler is a pretty big issue.”

Shining could only shrug with a nod at that point. Everything was still jarring for him to think over, but he was fortunate enough to have the bombshells spread out over the course of a few days. In comparison, he could only imagine how shocked Celestia and Luna would be to discover everything all at once. The idea of facing the two was nothing short of terrifying, but he knew there wasn’t any reason to think it wouldn’t happen for himself. Instead, all that Shining could think to do was ask, “Is… Is Twily okay? I remember how bad things went after our wedding between them.”

“Yeah, that was why Celestia got so pissed in the first place. Twilight tried to pull that card on her immediately after they realized she was pregnant.”

“Wait, she actually did that?” asked Shining in surprise. “Wow… I wouldn’t have thought she’d go there.”

“Well, neither did Celestia,” retorted Cadance with a shrug. “Of course, all it did was make her respond with the longest ‘Wow’ I ever heard, before she soundproofed the two and chewed her out. I don’t think she actually hurt Twilight though, so that’s good.”

“Yeah, I hope not…” Shining scratched the back of his mane, unsure of what else he could try to ask. He was sure that a lot more happened after he left the ballroom in defeat, but he was also aware of how dire his own fate would be before the Royal Sisters. Sure, he doubted they would treat him any worse than they had Sombra, but it wasn’t like he had much to stand on himself. After all, even if Sombra remained away from the throne and dark magic, Shining still allowed him to perform more villainous acts now than he ever had before.

“So, uhhhh…” Shining took a moment before looking back at her nervously. “... What did they say to you?”

Cadance bit her lip, and averted her eyes from her Ex. “Let’s just say… I should be grateful that all I got was Celestia telling me she was disappointed in me… At least, compared to how they’re probably treating Sombra right now.”

Even though she tried to sound optimistic, Shining knew her long enough to know how badly that must’ve gotten to her. Despite being on thin ice himself, he leaned in to give Cadance a supportive hug. “Oh, honey… Honey, I’m so sorry.”

“Oh, it’s alright. Seriously…” Cadance still smiled graciously as she hugged him back, happy to receive that kind of support. She may have still been rightfully pissed at him, but she appreciated his gesture nonetheless. “Still though, I’m just grateful they’re placing most of the blame on Sombra. At least, that was the mood I got from them before I came up here.”

“R-Really?” After the two pulled back, Shining’s brows were raised when he asked, “So… do you think I’ll be alright?”

“Psh~ Are you kidding me?!” she asked incredulously. “Oh, don’t you think for a second that they’re gonna let you off easy! Sombra probably told them everything by now, so you better believe they’re gonna say a lot to you!”

Shining’s pained wince returned at full-force. “Oof… Well, I guess I should’ve guessed that would happen.”

“Yes, you certainly should have.” Even with her sterner expression, Cadance tried to shoot her Ex a teasing smirk when she added, “Of course, given what you’re used to, maybe you’ll be able to handle it better than Sombra~”

“Oh, come on,” griped Shining with a strong eye-roll. “Now is not the time to try and tease me. Especially when I’m still wearing the cage.”

“Oh! That reminds me…” Cadance’s face lit up just before her horn could. She leaned her head down, pointing the tip of her horn directly at Shining’s chastity cage. With a single zap, Shining gasped with a heavy shudder before hearing something metallic fall to the floor. His cage was effortlessly unlocked and removed by his Ex’s magic, leaving his member to stand semi-flaccid without any restraints.

“There we go~” Cadance smirked up at Shining with a satisfied look on her face. “And I didn’t even have to break it like your plastic one~”

Shining’s expression flattened as he said sarcastically, “Oh, how wonderful.”

“Are you really going to try and give me attitude right after I undid your chastity?” Cadance’s stare grew firmer while tilting her head at him. “Do I need to remind you of that contract you signed earlier?~”

“Well, it’s not like I can deal with much worse right now…” Shining knew that his snarkiness wasn’t going to do him any favors, but he couldn’t keep himself from squirming from that tight band wrapped around his scrotum.

Upon seeing his reaction, Cadance put her response on hold to glance back at his rear. As soon as she saw Shining’s balls, which had swollen out quite a bit with a sharp shade of blue against his white fur, the Princess had to keep herself from gasping with a hoof over her mouth. “O-OH!!”

“Oh, are you surprised now?” he asked with a raised brow. If he wasn’t grimacing in pain, there’s a chance he would’ve tried to shoot her a coy-looking smirk. “And here I was thinking you wanted to see that.”

“W-Well, I mean…” Cadance had to look away from those bloated balls, not wanting to think about what was slated to happen to them later on. While she knew there was definitely a lot to be said -- particularly about her own feelings regarding the matter beforehoof -- it was hard for her to come up with much of a response. After a brief shrug, she tried to point out, “... after you made that announcement, it was hard for me to really focus on what was happening, you know?”

“Yeah, I think that was Sombra’s plan.” Shining took a couple steps back from his Ex, even though each movement of his hind-legs made him struggle not to wince in discomfort. “Even though everypony’s eyes were right on me, nopony seemed to be paying attention to what was happening behind me. I hate to say it, but he certainly found a means to make it public without getting caught.”

The last thing Shining wanted to do was say anything positive about the stallion who literally emasculated him, as well as forced him to resign in front of everypony he cared about. But even with how much he infuriated Cadance with that very action, he couldn’t deny how effectively Sombra succeeded with his goals. Not only did he get Shining gelded in front of the entire Crystal Empire, but he did it in a way that nopony knew it even happened. Not to mention, Sombra was able to leave Shining feeling just as lowly and defeated as he mentioned in that dream a couple nights ago. Heck, considering how Sombra promised Shining he would truly ruin him while they were alone, getting him to fulfill that deed made his statement disturbingly truthful.

“Yeah… Yeah, he certainly did…” Cadance appeared to be just as bewildered by her husband’s success as Shining was, but her nod ended quickly enough before she said, “I mean, he technically didn’t get away with it completely, but still…”

That was when Sombra’s voice could be heard from the doorway. “Yes, you can certainly say that…”

The two turned to see the Prince, who was looking ten times worse than Cadance had. His head was hung low with heavy bags under his eyes, and his mane disheveled like he ran through a wind-tunnel. Each step he took was weak and strained, as if he was thrown into absolute exhaustion after his “talk” with the Royal Sisters. His dark charcoal coat seemed to have paled several shades, which made the red carbon-fiber of his prosthetic horn stand out even more against his head. Of course, even with how defeated Sombra looked, that wasn’t what caught Shining and Cadance’s attention the most; both of them instantly took notice of Princesses Celestia and Luna, who walked in behind Sombra like they were escorting a fugitive to his hearing.

To say the two Alicorns looked pissed would’ve been a massive understatement. Luna may have already known a good amount of details about the three, but the night’s recent revelations left her glaring at her niece with unbridled disappointment. Celestia looked equally as livid, which left Shining to hang his head in a meager attempt to avoid her bitter gaze. The last time he could recall seeing Celestia that angry, it was when Twilight tried to warn everybody about the “Evil Princess” that turned out to be a valid warning at his Wedding Rehearsal; instead this time, it was him being faced before the Alicorn with a feeling of remorse and dread that couldn’t be measured.

“Ummm… S-Sombra?” Cadance tried to address her husband first, even though she knew how risky that would’ve been in that moment. “Are… Are you okay?”

Neither of the Princesses said anything, and glanced over at their prisoner as he lifted his head back up. Sombra’s muzzle was quivering as he looked back at his wife, his expression carrying a look of genuine dread and weakness she had never seen before. “Th… T-They--”

“Don’t worry, we didn’t hurt him,” noted Celestia, not even waiting for Sombra to answer Cadance before interrupting him. “Or at least, we didn’t cause any physical pain.”

Sombra instantly tried to lurch around to face them. “ARE YOU FUCKING KIDDING ME YOU PSY--GAAAHHHHH!!!”

Shining and Cadance gasped when they saw Celestia light up her horn, and instantly wrap an aura of her magic tightly around Sombra’s neck. She didn’t even flinch while silencing his response, as her expression remained as cold as her voice. “Like I said…I did not cause you any physical pain. But I can easily reprimand that if you continue to push your luck.”

Cadance tried to step up towards her Aunts. “Celestia, you can’t ju--”

“YOU DO NOT HAVE ANY RIGHT TO DEFEND HIM.” Princess Luna got right up in Cadance’s face, causing the pregnant mare to crumple before her venomous glare. “Cadance, we already learned of everything Sombra had done to you and Shining. Ev… ery… thing. So unless you want to explain why you lied to my face this morning, I suggest you stay silent and listen.”

Cadance could have pointed out how she technically never lied, but she knew her Aunt wouldn’t care about the difference between dishonesty and the omission of truth. So instead of trying to defend herself or her husband, she kept her muzzle tightly pursed to keep from digging her hole any deeper. Fortunately for Sombra, he was quickly let go by Celestia’s magic so he could breathe. While the stallion stood with a grimace and rubbed his throat, the Royal Sisters turned their focuses towards Shining and Cadance.

“Now then…” Luna was the first to step forward, and addressed the Exes with a bitter scowl. “Considering everything that’s happened, I think it’s only fair for all of us to be on the same page. Especially since we know everything that happened between you three…”

Luna’s scowl pointed directly at Shining, causing him to cringe and look away from her. During his pause, Celestia walked past the former Prince to glance at his backside. Much like Cadance, the Alicorn gasped with her eyes bulging, and her hoof over her mouth. “OHMIGOSH!”

Shining groaned in deep, deep remorse while glaring back at his Superior. Sombra looked like he wanted to smirk in satisfaction, but his expression remained notably wary while Luna was staring him down. Without even asking, Celestia lit up her horn once again to grasp her magic around Shining’s scrotum. The stallion let out a sharp gasp, and went wide-eyed just before hearing a distinct snap.

“There we go…” Celestia held up the thin band of plastic that was now broken as a single strand. Sombra’s jaw dropped with an utterly defeated look, while Shining slumped to the ground and groaned in searing pain. The former Prince clutched his crotch tightly with both hooves, and shuddered hard from the throbbing pain coursing through his newly-freed nuts. As Shining writhed on the floor with his Ex wincing in pity, all that Celestia could do was shudder to herself and walk away from his backside. “Geeze, I never thought I’d have to see that procedure in modern times…”

Even in his overwhelmed state, Shining could help grimacing from that truthful remark given by the Princess behind him. It wasn’t like he could really say anything in defense, since he was sure they were already aware how disturbingly “consensual” everything had been prior to this meeting. But much like his Superior, who was struggling not to crumble from the Princess’ furious glares on him, Shining was left in an equally helpless state before them. But regardless of how he may have felt, all he could do was focus on his balls as he clutched to them tightly, and tried his hardest to keep whatever hope he had for them.

“Now then…” Celestia sighed in relief after freeing the former Prince’s ill-gotten bondage, and walked back to stand beside her sister in front of the Ex couple. “Before we say anything else, we should point out that as far as the Crystal Empire knows, it doesn’t seem like anypony is aware of Sombra’s involvement. Twilight talked with some of the Empire’s citizens, and it seems like that… announcement… is seen by most of them as being a natural decision by Shining Armor himself.”

That detail got both of them appearing surprised as they looked back at the Princesses. Even Cadance seemed befuddled by how easily her Aunts could make that claim. Meanwhile, Shining was still lying on the floor as he looked up at them with a nonplussed stare. “W… W-Wait, seriously?”

“I’m afraid so,” remarked Celestia with a shrug of her shoulders. “Honestly, I can’t see you taking back that announcement without raising some suspicion from the Crystal Empire’s citizens. If you tried to claim you didn’t want to step down as Prince now, there’s a good chance that ponies might assume something.”

That detail got him to close his eyes and groan, even though he knew that fact just as well as Celestia herself. He may have been forced by Sombra’s order to resign, but Shining tried his hardest to justify that decision as being something meant for the sake of his children. Even if he tried to reprimand that decision tomorrow, it was doubtful he could give an excuse as convincingly as the one he just made an hour ago. And even if he could, it would be even less likely that Sombra would want him to try and undo it, even for the Princess’ sakes.

“But even with that in mind…” Luna had to pinch the bridge of her muzzle with a hoof, although it did very little to withhold her bitter groan. “Ugh… Shining, I can’t even begin to comprehend how you could’ve agreed to all of this. Even as Sombra’s… as I quote from him directly, ‘personal cuckold bitch’...”

That remark really got Shining looking upset, as he glared back at his Superior without any subtlety. Sombra couldn’t exactly smirk too smugly to that assessment, mostly because he was still scared shitless by their very presence beside him. But even with how nastily Shining was staring at him, it didn’t do much to change how disappointed the Alicorns were looking back at him. Nevertheless, Luna tried to speak in a less judgemental tone by adding, “Now, I know I’m not one to judge ponies for their personal preferences in various fetishes. Believe me, I’ve witnessed dreams from many ponies to know that your interests in cuckolding aren’t unfounded by any means. But even with that being said, what could possibly make you think it was appropriate to involve someone like Sombra in a version of this fetish that extreme?!”

Shining couldn’t even say anything, and merely hung his head in undeniable shame. Cadance looked like she wanted to speak up on her Ex’s behalf, but she kept herself silent since she was equally guilty of their actions. But much to their surprise, it was Sombra who tried to speak up on their behalf. “Now, wait a minute!” he shouted in an attempt to protect the ex-couple. “Can you two honestly say I caused that much damage from being a part of--”

“DO NOT TEST ME, SOMBRA!!” Luna shot her furious gaze back at Sombra as she roared at him threateningly. “You should be grateful we didn’t do more to you during our interrogations!”

That remark got him to clench his muzzle tightly, as well as make his hind-legs try to cross together. Cadance looked worried when she saw that gesture, making her think that her Aunts may have done something similar to her husband earlier that night. Meanwhile, Celestia tried to speak more neutrally in an attempt to dissolve any drama. “Now, now, Luna… I’m not going to say that Sombra did no damage to the Crystal Empire, but you have to admit that this is a far cry from what he had done prior to his reformation.”

Luna just scoffed with a very strong eye-roll, not wanting to even humor her sister with that truthful point. “Celestia, he caused our niece to be the sole ruler of the Crystal Empire while pregnant! That’s not something we should take lightly!”

“N-Now, wait a minute!” Shining tried his hardest to defend himself for the sake of his Ex. “I’ll still do my best to help Cadance and the Crystal Empire as best as I can!”

“Nopony’s denying that in the slightest, Shining Armor,” noted Celestia without a shred of insincerity in her tone. “But given your past discretions, your integrity as a capable leader is greatly questioned after all the ‘orders’ you willingly abided by Sombra…”

Any composure Shining may have had was instantly dampened as he winced from that truthful point. Even Sombra was looking worried by that point, since he couldn’t do anything with the Alicorns standing between him. All that Cadance could do was clutch her pregnant belly with a worrisome look of her own, which only seemed to verify her Aunt’s claims without needing to say anything. Fortunately for Cadance, her Ex only needed a second or two as he sighed with his eyes closed. Following his exhale, Shining looked back at the Princess to say cordially, “That… That may be true, your Highnesses. B-But I meant what I said back on that stage. Even if Cadance is overseeing the Crystal Empire on her own, I fully intend to be the best father I can be for my foals.”

Cadance wanted to be happy about her Ex’s fortitude; unfortunately, the fruitful Princess couldn’t even smile before Celestia pointed out, “Your… foals, Shining Armor? Do you mean that in a plural tense? Because that might contrast with that Sombra had told us earlier.”

That point got Shining to cringe. Hard. It was hard enough to think that Luna already knew about things, but he still felt freshly mortified at the realization of both the Royal Sisters being made aware of Sombra’s patronage. Meanwhile, Sombra was struggling not to smirk in satisfaction while pinned between the two Alicorns. But instead of turning her focus back to the prisoner, Celestia sighed before asking, “Shining… is there something you need to tell us?”

Both Luna and Cadance averted their eyes from the head Alicorn, leaving Shining completely alone. Even though the truth was clear as crystal, he knew that he had to answer Celestia directly. If he wasn’t staring up at Celestia and her waiting stare, he likely would’ve winced at seeing Sombra subtly smiling at his misfortune. But as the former Prince tried to maintain his composure, he took a deep breath before speaking with somewhat confident conviction.

“I… I cannot lie to you, Princess Celestia. Cadance and I… We began a cuckold-based relationship involving Sombra just over a year ago. And… And as of recently… Sombra has not only married Cadance himself, but is… th-the father of her upcoming foal…”

The silence that lingered following those words spoke volumes, and caused Shining to close his eyes and await his fate. Cadance looked just as worried as her Ex, but she wasn’t prepared to hear him add sheepishly, “A-As well as… the soon-to-be foals that Twilight Sparkle and Twilight Velvet will have…”

He wasn’t sure if Sombra told him about those details, but he could only hope that it wasn’t anything new to the Royal Sisters. Regardless, Cadance gritted her teeth with a very uncomfortable look, and struggled not to see how wide her Aunts’ eyes had gotten. Celestia’s expression looked especially frozen, her muzzle tightly clenched for a moment while staring back at the shameful Ex-Prince. After blinking a couple times, most likely to help reassess her thoughts, she breathed out through her nostrils before reopening her muzzle. “Well… I’ll give you credit for being honest with me, Shining…”

While Celestia kept her sights directed at Shining, Luna was giving a very strong and murderous glare towards Sombra. The stallion couldn’t even say anything, and hung his head to try and avoid her wrath. Because of that, Celestia wasn’t interrupted as she pinched the bridge of her muzzle with a hoof to keep from snapping. “I… I’m seriously having a strong… strong difficulty in comprehending how you allowed all of this to happen!”

Shining didn’t try to look over at his Ex for support, and pointed his muzzle down to the floor as he cringed before Celestia. “I… I-I’m not exactly sure myself…”

“Ummm… I-If I may?”

Considering how nastily Luna was staring him down, everypony seemed shocked to hear Sombra’s meager voice. While he may have been absolutely delighted to see his slave squirming before his loved ones, Sombra still tried to raise a hoof to ask, “I know I don’t have much an excuse to speak up on their behalf, but--”

“Then don’t,” said Luna warningly.

“Luna, please…” Celestia carried a firm, albeit significantly less brash tone as she addressed her sister formally. As soon as Luna scoffed with an eye-roll, Celestia looked back down at their prisoner and said, “While I certainly feel like you said enough to us privately, I suppose it’s only fair for you to speak your peace. Especially after your… punishment.”

That last word seemed to really get to Sombra, as he shuddered with a distasteful look on his face. His wife looked back at him with genuine concern. “Wait a minute, what do they mean by that?”

Sombra opened his muzzle to answer, but stopped himself in recollection. The stallion’s face soured up with a heavy cringe, which only made Cadance even more worried. Celestia was quick to have a hoof raised in caution for Cadance’s sake. “Considering the things he’s done, and the fact that he was technically freed by legal tender on Equestrian Law, Luna and I couldn’t necessarily imprison him for his actions.”

“And believe me, we really wanted to,” added Luna with an especially strong amount of snark in her voice. “Unfortunately, since his Royal pardon was given at a live venue, we couldn’t do anything too visible without alerting the outside public of anything going on.”

“So instead,” continued Celestia, who was keeping an oddly cautious look towards her niece while speaking civilly, “Luna and I decided to implement a… sterilization spell on Sombra.”

“WHAT?!?” shouted Cadance and Shining at the same time. The latter mostly looked stunned as he stared back at his Superior, who was carrying a heavy pout of shame. Meanwhile, Cadance turned downright infuriated towards her Aunts. “YOU FUCKING STERILIZED HIM?! ARE YOU INSANE?!”

“YOU ARE NOT ONE TO TA--”

“SHUT THE FUCK UP, LUNA!!”

Cadance may have not been as well-versed in the Royal Canterlot tone, but she managed to use it effectively enough to shut her Aunt right up. Luna recoiled back from her niece with her muzzle wide-open. However, despite how impressed she may have been by Cadance’s retort, Celestia was unrelenting enough to point out, “Cadance, he’s only sterile! That doesn’t mean anything in regards to his libido or potency! I promise you, he hasn’t been left impotent or emasculated by any means! The only difference now is that he can’t bear any more foals! And considering what he’s managed to do, you should be grateful we waited until now to make that happen!”

Cadance really, really wanted to say something in response to that point. But even as she opened her muzzle to give a retort, a brief pause was all that followed as she left silent in thought. Much like her husband, who couldn’t say anything while shuffling between his hooves uncomfortably, Cadance could only sigh and turn her face away from the Alicorns. Meanwhile, Shining tried to awkwardly tilt his head to glance down at his Superior’s sheath; Sombra instantly noticed what he was doing, and shouted out, “IT’S NOT BROKEN, YOU NITWIT!!”

“NNNGHH!!” Shining immediately sprung back to a full-standing stance, his cheeks notably blushed while carrying a worrisome look. The Royal Sisters looked rather shocked at how quickly he responded, acting just as a newly-recruited cadet would during boot camp. They glanced over at Cadance, who could only shrug as she struggled to hide her second-hoof embarrassment. After a couple seconds of awkward silence, Shining relaxed himself enough to try and give a sheepish smile. “Uhhh… heh heh heh… S-Sorry…”

Celestia was still gawking at him in confoundment, and could only shake her head at how suddenly Equestria’s formerly most-powerful stallion responded to Sombra’s warning. Luna looked just as befuddled as her sister, but she was quick to notice the prideful smile that came across Sombra’s face. “Hmph~ I guess nothing much has changed after all.”

Luna got right up in Sombra’s face. “Do you really want to test us?”

“Luna, PLEASE!” Cadance was looking rightfully fed-up as she chided her Aunt. “I know you’re upset, and believe me, you have every right! But can you please, PLEASE stop threatening my husband after punishing him?! He’s been through enough!”

The Princesses both stared back at their niece with varying looks of shock. Cadance needed a moment to realize why they were looking at her so peculiarly, before she said through a wince, “Uhhh… I shouldn’t have called him my husband, should I?”

“Well, not right off the bat,” replied Luna, who could only shake her head with a shudder. “Ugh… that’s just weird.”

“Oh, quit acting so prudish!” Sombra didn’t show any shame as he walked away from the Princesses, and stood beside his wife with a prideful smile. “You just saw the gelding band that I had around Shining’s ballsack, and the fact that we’re legally married is what’s bothering you two!? Heck, if I was Shining I’d be offended right now!”

The Alicorns stared back at him in shock, just as Cadance wrapped a hoof around Sombra’s back and held him close with a supportive grin. The Sisters eventually looked back at Shining, who could only say with a brief shrug, “I mean… he’s not entirely wrong there.”

“Okay! Okay…” Celestia needed a second to reassess her thoughts, and sighed before saying, “I think it’s pretty clear we’re getting off track here…”

Even though the sight of Cadance and Sombra standing side-by-side as a couple was extremely distracting, Celestia kept her composure as best as she could in front of the former Prince. “So, Shining Armor… Do you remember a few months ago when I showed up to the Crystal Empire, and you and Cadance weren’t present for an ‘impromptu meeting’ with Twilight Sparkle?”

That reminder got all three of the ponies before the Princesses looking worried. Shining was blushing especially hard as he struggled not to shuffle awkwardly in his hooves. “Uhhh… Y-Yes?”

Celestia’s expression went unchanged, but her eyes narrowed on him ever so slightly. “And do you recall hearing anything about three ponies who committed several public nuisance violations out in public, including being walked outside on a leash and being shaved?”

Shining didn’t need to look up at the Alicorn to know what she was getting at. All he could do was sigh with another nod, and answered with pure honesty. “Yes, I… I remember that incident very well, your Highness. We… We may have been offered an anniversary gift of sorts from Discord to give us… d-disguise spells.”

“Wait, that was you guys?!” Luna looked much more surprised by that reveal than her sister. As Celestia rolled her eyes with a brief scoff, the other Princess shook her head before pinching her brow. “Jeeze… I’ve gotten so many weird dreams from ponies who witnessed those things happening.”

“Yeah, that was a great day~” Sombra knew he shouldn’t have been acting so cocky while the Royal Sisters were still so pissed; however, he was quick to add before receiving any glares, “And despite all the things we did, not a single pony was aware it was actually us! We were one hundred percent safe, just like with tonight’s activities~”

Shining and Cadance shot equally unnerved stares back at the Prince, causing Sombra to shut up and count his blessings. Celestia was the first to point out, “Well, I’m not going to even humor you with such a comparison, Sombra! And for your information, I was aware that it was you three that day.”

“WHAT?!” All three of them gawked at Celestia in shock. “Y-You knew!?” asked Cadance with an especially horrified look. “For how long?!”

“Oh, please! I saw a tall pink mare who was at the exact same stage of pregnancy as you, alongside two stallions who were pretty unsubtle exaggerations of Sombra and Shining! I didn’t say anything about it, because I knew that you were likely doing something ‘kinky’ as the Princess of Love. You might be my niece, but that doesn’t mean I couldn’t understand you having interests like ‘cuckolding’ if they remained safe.”

Cadance looked absolutely floored by that declaration, and was at a total loss for words. When she looked back at her other Aunt, Luna merely shrugged, and pointed out, “To be fair… It was her who asked me to examine Shining’s dreams in the first place. I figured she knew something, but… I didn’t want her to learn too much and think things were going too far.”

“Nevertheless,” added Celestia as she grew a much firmer scowl, “even if I was willing to overlook you three having a relationship in private, I can not stand idly by while Sombra endangers your livelihoods for some ego-ridden power trip!”

“C-Celestia, wait!” Cadance tried to speak up through her nervous blush, and pointed at her husband to clarify, “Just so you know, he didn’t mention planning to make Shining step down at ALL! Twilight and I were both just as shocked by that speech as you two were!”

“Oh, come on!” griped Sombra as he glared back at his wife. “You’re really going to throw me under the train like that?!”

“I SPECIFICALLY TOLD YOU NOT TO DO ANYTHING THAT COULD ENDANGER OUR LIVES!!!” Cadance’s outburst was accompanied with her getting right up in Sombra’s face, causing him to stumble onto the floor. Cadance didn’t show a smidge of remorse, and kept going lividly, “SOMBRA, WHAT DO YOU EXPECT ME TO DO WITHOUT SHINING CO-RULING THE EMPIRE WITH ME?!”

“Oh, well excuse me for ensuring our children are being raised by more than just the castle staff!” Before Cadance could give a retort to such a point, Sombra pointed out, “And might I add, I can’t exactly raise the children myself, can I!? Flurry Heart still cries whenever she’s alone with me for too long! And we already agreed to have Shining pose as the father of both foals, so we might as well have him present as often as possible so they’re raised properly!”

Cadance couldn’t even say anything, and just gawked down at the stallion while he was lying on the floor. Luna tried to interject by pointing out, “Sombra, are you aware how many times the Crystal Empire was nearly overtaken by villains when it was led by TWO ponies?! What do you expect would happen with just ONE pony at the throne!”

Celestia was quick to add furiously, “And don’t you think of volunteering yourself as being a Co-Ruler. We will NOT tolerate that!”

“Oh, for crying out loud!” Sombra got back up on his hooves before shouting back at them, “I DO NOT WANT TO GO BACK INTO POLITICS!! Seriously, why would I want to do that?! It’s pretty clear I’m not suited for that kind of role!”

He then pointed back at Shining and added, “Besides, it’s not like he resigned from the Royal or Crystal Guards! He can still defend Equestria with just as much heart and dedication as before! Heck, considering what’s all been going on, I would argue that he’s been doing better as a cuck than a Prince!”

“EXCUSE ME?!” Cadance, Luna, and even Shining gave that outburst at the exact same time. Sombra looked back towards his wife for support, but Cadance was staring at him like he replaced his prosthetic horn with a dildo. Sombra then groaned in exasperation, and rolled his eyes before walking towards the window.

“Okay, for starters,” he began with a calmer tone of voice, “most of the Empire’s previous altercations were started by me. And unless those villains cast in stone are broken out somehow, I doubt the Crystal Empire will be met with any predictable threats from here on out, am I right?”

Shining looked back at the Royal Sisters, who tried their hardest not to shrug or nod in agreement to that point. Nevertheless, none of them could really say anything to refute what Sombra said. Because of that, Sombra wasn’t interrupted as he pointed out the window, towards the gorgeous view of the Crystal Empire shimmering in the night. “And look out there right now! Do you see any buildings crumpled or on fire? Do you see any of the Crystal Empire’s citizens bound in chains or helmets, being enslaved and treated like cattle?”

“Aside from the one right beside us?” pointed out Luna, who motioned her head towards Shining. The former Prince groaned and covered his face with a hoof, secretly hoping that his legalized status wasn’t going to be brought up. Unfortunately, both Luna and her sister seemed to be aware of Shining’s current role, as they merely rolled their eyes and refrained from looking at him. Instead, they kept their gazes towards Sombra, who had to keep from chuckling in delight to her mention.

“Well, okay you got me there~” Sombra then quickly shook his head to clear his thoughts. “B-But that’s not my point! Other than Shining Armor, can you say that I’ve tormented or humiliated any other ponies since I began my reformation a year ago?”

The Princesses looked back at Cadance, who was quick to shrug and shake her head in response. While it could’ve been argued that impregnating and divorcing ponies was a fair example of torment or humiliation, neither of the Royal Sisters would’ve guessed from how happily Night Light and Velvet were acting earlier that night. As far as they were aware, the brunt of Sombra’s villainous deeds have been directed solely at Shining Armor; meanwhile, the rest of the Crystal Empire was safe and sound, just as Sombra intended for them to see themselves.

“That’s right!” Sombra let their silence speak for itself as he answered his own question for them. “Ever since I was unfrozen and given the task of bettering myself, I can safely say that Shining Armor was the best thing to ever happen to me! He’s one of the toughest, loyal, and most diligent stallions I ever had the pleasure to know as a friend. His relationship with Cadance is so pure and unchanged, that even divorcing them wasn’t enough to break apart their chemistry! I might be the one who makes her moan in bed, but there isn’t a Crystal Pony in existence who would consider me to be a better partner in comparison to him! And even with all the torment I give to Shining, it’s only because I know much he enjoys it as a closet masochist! And if that doesn’t show how much I love both of these ponies, I don’t know what will!”

Cadance and Luna were thrown very off-guard by that passionate speech, their muzzles slightly agape as they struggled to think of how to respond. Sombra pulled in his slave with a hoof, and kept his firm glare on the Princesses unchanged as he declared, “And by the way, I DO love him! I love Shining and Cadance like they do for each other! They may have originally taken me in for the sake of some kinky fling, but I don’t regret the life I have with them for even a second! They give me the motivation and drive to keep bettering myself outside the bedroom! And in exchange, they allow me to vent my more depraved ideas back towards them without any judgement or shame! If it wasn’t for them, I likely would’ve tried to find somepony else to torment, and possibly ruin my probation for doing so. So if making Shining Armor my personal bitch is enough to save the Crystal Empire’s integrity, then so be it! If anything, you two should be thanking Shining for serving as a martyr, as a perfect soldier should do!”

Shining wanted to be thankful that his Superior/Owner was speaking so highly of him, and was even blushing while clutched in his embrace. But considering some of the things that were being said, the former Prince was looking very embarrassed by how stunned the Sisters were looking. Cadance looked just as floored by Sombra’s declaration as her Aunts were; but unlike them, the younger Princess had a trembling smile as she struggled not to tear up in admiration.

Meanwhile, Sombra held Shining even closer to his side while staring sternly back at the Princesses. “Shining might be a beta, but he’s the strongest beta I’ve ever had the pleasure to know, and I have nothing but the highest respect for him after tonight! He was willing to sacrifice everything he had to show himself as what he truly is: A dedicated, loyal Private who wants nothing more than to serve ponies at a position he’s truly comfortable with! Not only did he satisfy myself, but he managed to do so with the utmost conviction and sincerity for the Crystal Empire where nopony could question his motives! And for that, I truly feel that he doesn’t deserve any judgement from either of you.”

He then pushed Shining aside, just so he could step forward and address the Royal Sisters himself. “I’ve already endured your punishments, your Highnesses. And given my actions, I’ll fully accept my sterilization, as well as the notion of my foals never being given Royal status. Considering what I did, it’s only fair.”

“Wait, you did WHAT?!” Cadance clutched her pregnant belly while glaring at her aunts. “What do you mean his foals don’t have royal stat--”

“Cadance, PLEASE.” Celestia raised her voice firmly enough to shut up her niece, and said with a raised hoof, “He already agreed to that measure, so please let it be. The last thing we need are ponies discovering a foal with a former villain’s bloodline could be viable for the throne.”

“And just so you know,” added Luna with a matter-of-fact tone, “it was actually a measure we enacted after Discord was reformed years earlier. We both saw how close he was getting with Fluttershy, so we put that law in motion just in case. It has nothing to do with Sombra personally. It was just convenient that we had it on hoof.”

Even though Cadance had a lot to say about such a brash decision -- especially since it involved the future of her unborn foal -- she could tell that her Aunts weren’t likely going to reverse their decision after Sombra agreed to it. So instead of trying to argue, Cadance could only hope in secret that her sister-in-law could change that measure when she was transferred into rule. While the pregnant mare huffed in disappointment, her husband resumed his passionate plea as he spoke on Shining’s behalf. “Everything that he did was purely of his choice, but I’ll understand if you feel my involvement was too strong to take his words into consideration. All I’ll say is that Shining has been through enough, and doesn’t need any further judgement from you two. He’s done everything I requested, so if there’s anypony who should deal with the aftermath, it should be me.”

Sombra stood with pride as he closed his muzzle and awaited his fate before the Alicorns. Shining and Cadance looked rightfully stunned by his decree, and had to look back at each other with wide-eyed stares as they realised he was actually willing to fall on their sword. While the Royal Sisters looked back at each other to see how they felt about such an action, Sombra turned back to the ex-couple to whisper assuredly, “It’s alright. Even if they take me away, you two will still have each other.”

Sombra gave the two a sly sink after that remark, which was seemingly enough to make Shining and Cadance smile in appreciation. He then turned back to the Alicorns in question, who whispered a couple things to one another before nodding their heads in agreement. Celestia and Luna stood tall before the former villain, with the older sister being the first to speak formally. “Well then… First of all, I can respect your tenacity for owning up to your actions, as well as your ability to show sacrifice for the sake of the ponies you care about.”

Sombra smiled in respect of that comment, just before Luna decided to add with, “Although, some ponies might think your idea of ‘caring’ for ponies is far different from how you treated Shining Armor.”

Even Sombra couldn’t argue with that point, and merely shrugged to avoid pushing that issue any further. His Superior’s nonchalant response caused Shining to groan with his head hung low, feeling like a child being embarrassed by his overbearing Dad at a public event. But despite how obviously humiliated the former Prince may have felt, Celestia kept her focus on Sombra to resume her final decree. “But considering how you’ve already been legally pardoned for your past digressions, and also underwent your sterilization as punishment for Shining’s recent actions, I have to say it’s quite difficult for us to think of an adequate means to respond to your request, Sombra.”

That response seemed to be exactly what Sombra wanted to hear, as he lifted his head up with a gracious smile and said, “Well, I’m very thankful to hear that from you, your Highness. Unless there’s anything else to be said, I feel tha--”

“However…” Celestia cut him off very quickly as she narrowed her eyes on the Prince, and grew the slightest smirk to reveal a more devilish side. “... After conducting that thorough interview with you, and learning just how vastly your legal relationships have changed over the past year, I feel that we have a unique opportunity on our hooves here~”

Sombra, Shining, and Cadance all looked worried when they saw the peculiar grins growing across Celestia and Luna’s muzzles. The latter certainly looked more nervous and blushy than her sister, but that didn’t keep her from smiling optimistically to what Celestia had planned. Meanwhile, the head Alicorn turned her sights back to Shining, and asked, “But before we suggest anything, I need to verify a couple details… Shining, is it true that you legally divorced my niece a few days ago?”

Shining hung his head with a shameful wince, and breathed out hoarsely before replying, “W-Well, ummm… t-technically, yes…”

“Alright then.” Celestia then turned her attention back to Cadance, and asked, “And with that detail in mind, would you show any obligations with your ex-husband indulging in relations outside of yourself or Sombra?”

That question for the pregnant Princess looking wide-eyed in worry. However, after a moment of thought regarding the implications itself, all she could do was shrug before saying, “W-Well, I mean… I’d prefer to know who he was with beforehoof.”

“That’s perfectly fine,” assured Celestia, as she pulled her sister in close with a hoof while the mare was blushing profusely. “You see, after learning of the pregnancies of Twilight and her mother, Luna was growing rather curious of having a foal of her own. After all, since we’re set to retire soon, we’re at the perfect opportunity to raise a pony of our own without any distractions or outside obligations. And if one of us were to sire a child of our own, it would automatically be sired for the throne before the illegitimate child of Twilight’s.”

“W-What?!” Cadance reeled back in surprise at her Aunts’ plans, clearly not knowing of this until just now. “Wait, are you serious!? Like… Are you going to raise the foal together, or…”

“Well, we’re both immortal Alicorns with millennials worth of shared knowledge and experience between us,” Luna noted while keeping a sheepish smile back at her niece. “Who’s more suited to be compatible partners for one another than ourselves? Plus, we can easily explore outside relationships without interfering with the foal’s upbringing itself. We were actually considering certain stallions to serve as surrogate fathers for the two of us, but…”

It didn’t take long for the three to realize what the Royal Sisters were planning, and all their eyes widened in unison from the same realization. Sombra and Cadance looked over at their slave, who seemed particularly shocked by what the two Alicorns had planned. But alas, even with how stunned Shining may have looked, Celestia and Luna still seemed hopeful as they kept their sights on the technically “single” stallion. “Well, I did pause the gelding procedure for now,” noted Celestia, who tried to speak optimistically on her sister’s behalf. “And even before learning of your divorce, we were actually considering asking you to contribute consensually.”

“To be fair, “ added Luna with a more apprehensive smile than her sister, “we were planning to ask Cadance first, since her input meant just as much as your own. Although, I suppose that’s still the case now after learning of the contracts you signed for both of them…”

Shining had to keep from cringing as he glanced back at his two Owners, who were still looking fairly baffled by the Alicorns’ request. Cadance had to raise a hoof while her muzzle was agape, needing a moment before asking, “O-Okay, so… Are you actually asking for Shining to impregnate you, Luna?”

“Well, why not?” asked Luna while trying to keep her embarrassment in check. “I mean, I’d rather not have Shining only bear one foal while Sombra had three. And I’d rather ask him than your husband, no offense.”

“None taken,” replied Sombra without a shred of worry in his expression. “I already got two Alicorns, that’s lucky enough for me~”

Cadance nudged him hard against the side with her elbow, which helped to dampen the smirk on his face. Luna and Celestia both rolled their eyes to that comment, and returned their attention back to Shining. The slave was looking nervous when he saw their waiting smiles, seemingly hopeful that he would be open to accepting their offer. Celestia pulled her sister in close to her side, and asked, “If it’s alright to ask… would it be alright to assist in our final wish as rulers of Equestria?”

In an attempt to sweeten the deal, Luna made sure to add, “Also, we’ll make sure Sombra gets to watch so he gets to be the cuckold for a change~”

“Now, WAIT A MINUT--MMMFFFF!!!” Any remark Sombra could’ve given was cut off by Cadance shoving her hoof into his open muzzle. She also used her magic to keep her husband firmly in place, even as he struggled against her restraints with a bitter scowl on his face.

“W-Well, ummm… While we greatly appreciate the offer,” began Cadance politely, “as well as your consideration to ask Shining upfront, I… I should remind you two that we have the final say on what should be done with Shining here.”

That detail was enough to make Sombra settle in his wife’s magic, and stop struggling to try and bring up that point himself. Shining winced from that reminder being given, mostly because he figured that the Alicorn before him would’ve voided those contracts themselves. But much to his shock and dismay, the Alicorn relented enough for Celestia to say in response, “Of course, of course… feel free to discuss with Sombra what you think is best~”

Cadance nodded back at them with a smile, and then took a couple steps away from the group with Sombra in tow. She quickly brought up a sound-proofing spell which encapsulated herself and Sombra in a magic-laden dome so they could talk in privacy. As they discussed their options, Shining was standing in awkward silence as he looked back at Celestia and Luna with a worrisome blush. He had no idea what he could say, or even ask to either of them while Cadance and her husband talked amongst themselves. But considering what they already knew, all that Shining could do was ask meekly enough, “S-So, uhhh… Are either of you wanting to, like… intervene in what’s been happening?”

“Well…” Celestia glanced back at her sister for a moment, before pointing out, “... it’s not like Sombra is wrong, is he? I mean… the Crystal Empire is fairly safe by all means considered.”

“If it means anything though,” noted Luna with a more optimistic smile on her face, “if any major catastrophic emergencies happen in the nation, we’ll be sure to reinstate your status as Prince to assist in the Crystal Empire. After Cadance’s approval, of course.”

Shining couldn’t even smile to that assurance, and hung his head with a more defeated look on his face. Since Celestia and Luna were slated to retire soon, he could tell that her promise was equally as comforting as the money-back-guarantee from a Flim-Flam product. In other words, even the immortal Alicorn rulers of Equestria weren’t willing to help him now. While the idea of confirming that fact felt traumatizing enough, Shining could only sigh before asking, “S-So… you’re saying that I’m still their…”

Instead of giving a clear answer, Celestia merely shrugged with a smirk and said, “Well, let’s hear what they say first~”

The two motioned back towards the couple, as their sound-bubble just dissipated so they could return to the others. Sombra looked significantly less upset, as did Cadance as she kept a courteous smile towards her Aunts. The two stood beside Shining on opposite sides, keeping him rightfully pinned between them like the rightful property he was. “After some deliberation,” began Cadance as she spoke in formal tone of voice, “Sombra and I have decided to accept your offer to use his seed to your liking~”

Shining froze up with his muzzle tightly clenched, not wanting to press his luck by asking if that was real. Of course, even if he did try to speak, it would’ve been interrupted when Cadance added, “However… since Shining Armor is the legal property of myself and Sombra, we would like to impose some measures to make this a proper negotiation.”

That detail caught the Alicorns’ attention, and they narrowed their eyes on their niece before Luna asked, “Is that so? And what might those measures entail?”

“Well, for starters…” Cadance wrapped a hoof around her Ex’s back, and stared back at her Aunts to say, “If you insist on having his semen for a foal, then we have to insist on having him re-gelded the instant it’s complete. And Sombra wants to perform the procedure with you two present to make it valid by Equestrian decree.”

Shining closed his eyes with a painful sigh escaping his muzzle. But much to his horror, even while his eyes were shut in dread, he could hear Celestia say, “That’s a perfectly suitable trade. Although, Luna had a measure of her own she wanted to include alongside that.”

“Oh?” Cadance and Sombra turned their sights back to Luna, who was glaring at the stallion rather notably.

“Since he already cuckolded Shining for a long time, I would like to request that he gets locked in chastity until your foal is born.”

Sombra instantly got offended by such a measure. “Okay, that is NOT happ--”

“Agreed~”

Sombra’s jaw dropped as he gawked back at his wife, who turned back to him with a cocky grin. “Considering what you just made Shining do, you should be very, very grateful I’m agreeing to a punishment that light~”

Sombra groaned with his muzzle tightly clenched, but refrained from saying anything to further infuriate his wife. Shining could tell that the idea was enough to get his Superior pissed, but even Sombra was smart enough to know not to push his limits with her. Unfortunately, Sombra then turned back to the Princesses to point out, “If I may… since I also have legal ownership of Shining Armor, I would like to implement a measure of my own.”

Neither of the Alicorns seemed too keen on hearing his input, but looked back at him with their muzzles skewed in wait. Sombra looked back at his slave for a moment, and grew a devilish grin before saying back to the Royal Sisters, “Since I effectively got him to revoke his status as Prince, I don’t suppose there would be much issue with verifying any of the other legal changes Cadance and I imposed?~”

Shining got very panicked when he gawked back at his Superior, who was sporting a very wide grin after such a suggestion. Cadance closed her eyes with a heavy exhale of her own, but didn’t try to stop her husband from continuing with his part of the deal. Luna and Celestia both looked surprised by that measure, with the latter asking firmly, “Just what do you mean by that, Sombra?”

“Honey, if you may?” Sombra looked back at his wife with a hoof extended, which was enough to make Cadance sigh and light up her horn. Much to Shining’s horror, a large manilla folder of documents were conjured out from her magic, which landed right in Sombra’s hoof. He then handed the folder to Celestia, and said, “In those documents, you’ll see the verified documentation of Shining and Cadance’s divorce papers, my marriage certificates with myself and the three mares I impregnated, his official notice of demotion, and notarized documents which identify him as a legal slave of myself and Princess Cadance…”

Celestia and Luna were wide-eyed while looking through the official papers, clearly shocked that the couple went so far to bring Shining down the lowest low beneath them. Shining could only hang his head in absolute shame, unable to even realize that his cock had grown full-mast in response to the humiliation he was receiving. Celestia had to blink a couple times with a shameful shake of her head, not expecting to see such thorough paperwork to trap the former Prince to the status he was at now. Meanwhile, Sombra smirked back at them proudly and said, “If you want my slave’s seed, I would request for all of those documents, as well as any other paperwork submitted by myself or Cadance, to be officially notarized under Equestrian law. Preferably out of public records, obviously~”

Shining’s mouth was hung open, absolutely shocked that Sombra would actually go this far. Even though he partially signed most of those papers of his own free will, he was under the assumption that they would never be notarized or issued out under actual law. But now with the Princesses reading through them without interruption, there was no way for Shining to stop his Superior from making them completely legit. He tried to look back at his Ex for support, only to have his muzzle clutched shut by a thin rope of her magic. Cadance took advantage of her Aunts reading through the papers to put a quick sound-bubble over herself and Shining, and grew a smirk just as evil-looking as her husband’s.

“What’s the matter? If you’re willing to resign in public for him, you shouldn’t have much issue with this~” Shining’s eyes widened in horrified shock, unsure if this was the same mare he previously married years ago. But before he could even try to defend himself, Cadance leaned in close to his face and whispered, “And just remember, there’s still bank transfer papers I could easily include for them to confirm. As well as custody transfers. So I would suggest you accept things now before they get much, much worse~”

Shining may have known how pissed Cadance was about his resignation, but he wouldn’t have expected her to make such a cruel threat in response. But alas, even as he shuddered in horror in her grasp, Shining was able to nod his head to avoid the consequences presented. As soon as he did that, Cadance let go of his muzzle with her magic so he could breathe properly. “That’s a good slave~” she hissed with her eyes narrowing on him. “Now go ahead and agree to Sombra’s deal before I add to it~”

She then undid the sound-bubble, just before Celestia or Luna could take notice. Shining tried his hardest to keep his voice sounding natural when he blurted out, “I-I agree to Sombra and Cadance’s measures, your Highnesses!”

Celestia and Luna glanced back at him in surprise, while Sombra shot his wife a gracious smile and a nod of his head. While Cadance nodded back at her husband, Luna narrowed her eyes on Shining and asked, “Is… Is that so? So… you’re willing to be re-gelded after we finish?”

Shining let out a painful sigh, closed his eyes before answering, “I… I’m willing to do that, Princess Luna…”

Celestia made sure to ask in clarification, “And… you’re okay with being legally demoted? And having us legalize your status as their slave?”

“I… I-I’ll accept those measures…” Shining hated hearing that answer come out of his mouth, but he couldn’t focus on the ramifications if it meant the risk of dealing with worse consequences later on. Not to mention, every painful thump of his rapidly-beating heart was accompanied with sharp, leg-twitching pulsations that came from his unsheathed and throbbing cock.

Celestia and Luna looked back at each other for a moment while holding all the paperwork in their magic. After a moment of silence, the two shrugged in acceptance before floating the folder aside. “Well… alright then,” said Celestia, who turned back to Shining with a smile. “Considering how you’re clearly willing to perform physically, hopefully this process won’t take too long~”