By the time the sun was beginning to set that day, the Crystal Empire was absolutely ecstatic about the news of Princess Cadance's pregnancy. A few of the Crystal Guards who covered for Cadance during her morning sickness may have slipped up about possible rumors, but Shining’s enthusiastic confirmation sent the Crystal Castle into an absolute frenzy. Almost every business in the city tried to contribute whatever they could to the evening’s festivities, and the Crystal Ponies’ exuberance showed no bounds as the streets were quickly decorated in celebration. By the time Twilight Sparkle and her friends were informed of the news and teleported to the city, the level of speediness and dedication that went to preparing Cadance's party even left Pinke Pie gawking.

But for Shining himself, he was still grateful for his sister returning to the Crystal Empire to assist nonetheless. Despite how tenaciously his subjects may have been working to get everything ready, there were still a countless amount of smaller tasks that he likely would’ve missed if it wasn’t for Twilight’s attentiveness. Even though he didn’t want his sister to start helping just after teleporting, it was obvious how grateful he felt when she had her checklist on the ready. And since Spike was busy outside the castle helping with some more extravagant decor, Shining and Twilight were able to talk more comfortably away from prying eyes.

The two walked side-by-side through the interior of the Crystal Castle’s ballroom, which was already buzzing with activity as dozens of staff were setting up tables and hanging streamers. Fortunately, as per Shining’s request, most of the Crystal Ponies kept a respectful distance from the siblings so they wouldn’t be eavesdropped on. Twilight also kept a sound-proofing dome of magic over herself and Shining as they walked, mostly as an added precaution considering the things both of them knew.

“So, how are you feeling about tonight, Shiny?~” asked the Princess with a notable smirk while she looked through a list on a rather long scroll. Most of the entries had at least one check-mark on them, which was comforting enough for Shining to know this party would likely stay on track. However, the lingering truth of why this was happening left him to blush hotly as he gave her a timid smile.

“Well, I… Honestly?” he said with a small shrug after pausing for a second to contemplate his words. “After Cadance and I talked it out, I… I honestly don’t have any problem with doing this. I mean… I know how it may look from other ponies if they knew, but… Right now, I’m just proud of Cadance for having another foal! We discussed the idea for a while, so… why not make it happen like this?”

Even though she wanted to tease him for the fact that it wasn’t his foal Cadance was carrying, Twilight couldn’t deny how legitimately happy Shining looked. The stallion may have done a lot over the past few months, but it seemed that the acceptance of Cadance's pregnancy really helped him feel more comfortable about his status as a cuckold; or at least, the stallion would find more pleasure in things that previously would’ve just hurt him. While she doubted he would downright embrace his new self (at least not publicly), his honest response left Twilight smiling warmly before she said, “Well… regardless of societal norms, let me just say that I’m just as proud of you as we both are for Cadance. It takes a lot of guts to not only allow such a thing to happen, but to do it without regretting the decision afterward.”

Despite the fact that his smile widened gratefully from his sister’s assurance, his blush still deepened a bit while his head lowered meekly. “Uhh… Y-Yeah,” he said with a meager shrug, seemingly still getting used to maintaining his confidence outside the bedroom. “I-I mean, I… I know I still have some other things left to do, but… I can’t say I’m as worried about those as I used to be~”

Upon seeing how sincere Shining appeared with that statement, Twilight’s smile grew warmer as she nodded in understanding. She may have not been completely aware of all her brother might have to endure next, but she doubted they’d be as significant as Cadance's pregnancy. Unless Shining were to be gelded (which to be fair, could be possible given Sombra’s past and sadistic nature), Twilight was doubtful a lot more could be done while keeping everything behind closed doors. But of course, given how everything started from the beginning, the Alicorn didn’t want to say anything too soon.

So instead of asking what the stallion might end up doing next, Twilight just shrugged before saying with a cheeky smirk, “Well, as long as it doesn’t end up with you guys being caught, I won’t try to judge what makes you happy.”

Upon hearing that clarification, Shining just sighed and shrugged in agreement. “Yeah, no kidding,” he replied with a brief chuckle and a shake of his head. “Jeeze, who would’ve thought they’d get away with that Garden Social stuff?~”

Twilight giggled with a notable blush herself while keeping a hoof over her mouth. “Hehehehe… Oh, man~ I’m not gonna lie, even I was surprised nopony caught on to her statements!”

While her brother nodded with a bit lip and apprehensive shrug, Twilight huffed before adding in a more devilish-sounding voice, “Although… if they were willing to go that far for that event… It kinda makes me wonder what they’d be capable of doing tonight~”

Shining’s ears lowered while his cheeks burned brightly, and he turned his head away so his sister couldn’t see the bashful expression he was trying to supress. Even though the young Princess couldn’t see his muzzle, she was sure that Shining was trying his hardest not to smile to that thought. Luckily for the Guard, Twilight was sympathetic enough not to snicker too audibly.

“W-Well, ummm…” Shining had to take a breath while trying to think of something to counteract her snarky words. After a couple seconds, he un-clenched his lips just enough to say, “... considering where we are, I’d be surprised if the two of them did anything too crazy in front of the Crystal Ponies.”

“I wouldn’t be so sure about that~” Twilight jeered with a studious tilt of her head. Even though her horn was staying lit to keep their shield up, the Alicorn had enough magical talents to conjure up an item to be teleported on top of her back. Shining narrowed his eyes in confusion as he saw what his sister brought into their sound-proof space: A small, cute little white gift-bag with an electric-blue bow tying the top flaps shut. The stallion wanted to reach out and give the item a curious poke with his hoof, but his foreleg retracted from the bag as it gave a sharp vibrating pulse.

“Oooohh!! Hehehehe~” Twilight blushed with a surprised giggle while covering her muzzle again, and looked back to eye that gift-bag herself. The item turned dormant for a couple seconds, before another vibration caused an audible hum to come out from the bag for an equally long amount of time. Both siblings watched for a moment as the bag continued to repeat that process in a slow and studious rhythm, not showing any signs of stopping.

Vvvvvv… Vvvvv… Vvvvv… Vvvvv…

While Shining turned increasingly puzzled, Twilight just giggled more audibly before she could give a response. “O-Oh, wow!~” she said while the blush deepened over her amazed smile. “I can’t believe they’re doing that right now!~”

“D-Doing what right now?” asked Shining as he glanced back at her in befuddlement. “And who?”

As soon as she realized she had to explain her gift to her brother, Twilight tried her hardest not to laugh out-loud. Fortunately, her muffled snickers only lasted another couple of seconds before she could put her hoof back down. Meanwhile, the item in that bag continued to vibrate in long pulsations, and slowly started to increase in tempo.

Vvvvvvv… Vvvvvvv… Vvvvvvv… Vvvvvvv… Vvvvvvv…

“Ummm… Weeeeellllll…” Now it was Twilight’s turn to start looking blushy, as her cheeky grin widened and she shuffled her hooves antsily. “I… may have been working on this gift for a while. You see, I… took the liberty of making you something that’ll help you stay closer connected with her, even when she’s not around. It’s connected with Princess Cadance's emotional magic, and will help you sense her feelings from wherever she is. Specifically, her… more impulsive feelings, if you catch my drift~”

Shining’s brows lifted in realization, and he lit up his horn to pick up the bag from his sister’s back. As he undid the bow and opened up the present, his muzzle skewed confusedly when he pulled out what looked to be a plastic bracelet. Of course, the item itself had a shimmering, almost multicolored hue that constantly changed upon the angle that light reflected from it. Of course, those colors changed more intensely each time it vibrated in growing succession within Shining’s magic.

Vvvvvvv! … Vvvvvvv! … Vvvvvvv! … Vvvvvvv! … Vvvvvvv!

“Is… Is this a bracelet?” he asked as he stared at the pulsating item puzzledly.

“Welllllllll, it could be worn like that,” Twilight said with a skew of her head, almost as if she was apprehensive about that option on Shining’s behalf. She then added as she grew a more mischievous smile on her face, “buuuuuttttt… that item might be hard to explain if you wear it that way. Especially since it only vibrates when… Cadance has something inside of her~”

Shining’s eyes shot wide-open, and the realization of what he had became crystal clear while the “bracelet” continued to pulsate even faster.

Vvvvvv!! Vvvvv!! Vvvvv!! Vvvvv!! Vvvvv!!

Twilight had to bite her bottom lip with an envious shiver, clearly envisioning the same thing her brother was upon hearing the building tempo of that device. “Hehehehehe~ It seems like the two are having their own celebration right now~”

Vvvvvv!! Vvvvv!! Vvvvv!! Vvvvv!! Vvvvv!!

Shining shivered meekly as well, and tried to keep himself in control while the vibrations came out harder in his magical grasp. He could only imagine how Cadance must’ve looked in that moment, probably bent over in their old bed and mounted while Sombra rutted her fertile plot senseless. Or maybe they were in the bathroom to “washen up,” since Shining knew for a fact that the two began to fuck as soon as he left the bedroom. Heck, the two could even be somewhere else in the castle right now, just to up the ante and make their twisted union even more taboo by pushing their exhibitionist limits. With each second that passed, Shining’s thoughts grew as wild as his restrained stallionhood as he felt just how rapid those vibrations were getting.

VVVVV!! VVVVV!! VVVVV!! VVVVV!! VVVVV!! VVVVV!!

“... O-Ooooohhhhhhmigosh~” Shining groaned in a weak and overwhelmed exhale of a voice, clearly not prepared to grow so pent-up from something as simple as a vibrating bracelet. Nevertheless, Twilight didn’t need to use her magic to see how badly her brother’s chastity cage may have been straining from the titillation of his own perverted thoughts. While Shining’s expression clenched firmly in frustrated arousal, and his face burned hotly with a blush while squirming in his hooves, Twilight took the liberty of taking that item from his aura before he could drop it.

“You know what?~” she said as she grinned devilishly wide at him and decided to give him a better use for that “gift.” Her horn brightened immensely to intensify the strength of their sound-proofing dome, and soon turned that transparent wall of magic into a frosted tint of lavender. As soon the the two were completely concealed in the space, the Princess grinned evilly wide enough to make her brother wince in his fidgety state. Since no ponies were able to see them, Twilight pulled down Shining’s pants with her magic before floating the bracelet down towards his crotch.

“Since you’ve become so accustomed to your new lifestyle,” she said teasingly while grinning from ear-to-ear, not seeming to care how loudly Shining gasped when she clasped that ring around the base of his locked privates. Since she wasn’t technically touching her brother’s junk (not to mention, both of them knew he had to do far worse for her after that ‘wedding night’), Twilight didn’t seem too unnerved while using her magic to shrink the ring down to firmly wrap around his cock and balls. Meanwhile, Shining couldn’t hold back his strained moans as he spasmed wildly to that cold magic, and the contrasting feeling of Twilight’s gift sending constant vibrations to his leaking cage.

VVV!!VVV!!VVV!!VVV!!VVV!!VVV!!VVVVVVVVVVVVvvvvvvvvvv… Vvvvvvvvvvvvvvv…

Shining had no idea how his egghead sister did it, but he just felt his wife experiencing an orgasm from another stallion while he was in a completely different place. He wanted to yell at Twilight for putting him in such a state (especially now of all times), but his muzzle was too tightly-clamped in tantalizing torment to even think of saying anything more than a pained groan. Meanwhile, Twilight just giggled to herself cheekily while pulling her brother’s pants on, and leaving him edged super-badly as she made the forcefield transparent again. Fortunately for both of them, it seemed that all of the castle staff were too preoccupied with their own duties to have even glanced at the changing bubble nearby.

While Shining Armor was left whimpering with his cock throbbing hard within its unrelenting cage, and his hind-legs straining from the lingering aftershocks of that ring vibrating faintly around the base of it, Twilight just leaned in with a shit-eating grin as she said in a sickly-sweet voice, “You can consider that my… personal gift for you today~”

With that, Twilight gave Shining no warning as she undid her magic, and trotted off to leave him dangerously blushed and fidgety while out in the open. While the stallion jolted upward and looked around like petrified housecat, his sister just giggled sadistically as she trotted off elsewhere. Shining bit his lip hard as he stood like a statue, and hoped more than anything that he could get to a bathroom or cold shower immediately. Unfortunately, that didn’t seem to be the case as he breathed out shakily by himself, and saw Twilight’s parchment of preparation tasks floating over towards him.

The stallion groaned bitterly through gritted teeth, and tried his hardest not to collapse as he looked through the scroll himself. Despite how badly he wanted to get hard, or even orgasm one last time, Shining Armor knew he couldn’t do that right now when he had approximately… twenty-three tasks left to oversee.

“Ughhhhh…” Shining’s head slumped down in titillated dread, and he shuddered from one last vibration above his cage as he muttered, “Thi… This is going to be a long day…”

Fortunately for the happy couple, as well as Shining Armor and the rest of the Crystal Empire, all of the necessary tasks were completed just in the nick of time for Cadance's celebration to unfold. Given how packed and lively the ballroom became from the hundreds of enamored Crystal Ponies, there was no doubt that this would likely be the biggest party the city experienced since Sombra’s defeat. From the blissfully spent castle staff who worked their tails off for this event, to the lively citizens and tourists who came from all-around to take part in the night’s celebrations, there didn’t look to be a single pony or creature whose smile looked untarnished. In fact, it seemed that even the presence of Sombra down in the ballroom didn’t falter any ponies’ moods in the slightest.

But alas, the Ex-King made sure to keep himself safely distant from any large groups as he tried to navigate through the party on his own. Even though he was undoubtedly blessed to be part of such a significant day in his life, Sombra tried to remain alert as he stepped around cautiously in his black suit. Even if the Crystal Ponies were more focused on his wife’s pregnancy than his own presence to glance towards him, he knew that he affected countless lives to make himself feel too safe in the moment. So while various ponies laughed or drank amongst their groups in cheerful reminiscence, Somba tried to find somepony he could trust before he could worry about a stray knife being thrusted into his back.

Fortunately for the former Tyrant, he found some much-needed solace as he walked close to his old throne. The crystal structure was now left empty of his prized pelts or cushions, and now stood behind a thick velvet rope to stand as a memorial within the formerly somber place. Even though he understood why the crystal seat remained in place without being touched, Sombra couldn’t help wincing a little to the sight of his old monument of power. Of course, despite how distracting that old chair may have been, Sombra tried to avert his attention towards the pony he was seeking out in the first place.

Shining Armor, who was standing nearby the old throne while looking out at the festivities, had a wide and honored smile on his blushed muzzle. Even though Sombra seemed a little more apprehensive to be out in the open than his Guard, he was able to smile more naturally as soon as he stood beside him. A couple Crystal Ponies may have taken notice of the two figures standing side-by-side away from the cheering crowds, but nopony tried to venture towards them when it seemed like they were wanting some space. So while the party continued with jaunty music and many laughs abound, the Prince and Shining took notice of one-another while standing in semi-isolation.

“Well…” Sombra said that first part rather briefly before taking a calming breath, happy he could get something out to start a conversation. Fortunately for him, Shining seemed rather happy as he glanced back at his Prince with an optimistic look. Sombra wanted to continue speaking, but took a second as he looked around the massive space that used to be his own. After looking back at his old throne briefly, the Ex-King sighed before turning his attention back towards Shining. “I have to say… I would’ve never thought in a million years that I would be present for an event like this.”

Shining huffed with an overwhelmed smile of his own, and shook his head in agreement before he replied, “I know, right? I mean… even without our personal stuff, it… it’s hard to believe you and I are able to stand here like this.”

“It really is, Shining Armor… It really is…” Sombra nodded faintly as he looked back out towards the crowds of Crystal Ponies, and tried to remain positive among his lingering thoughts. Unfortunately, a sharper exhale escaped his muzzle before he said, “And just think… if it wasn’t for you and Cadance, I likely wouldn’t even be alive right now. Let alone living back here with so much to appreciate again…”

Shining nodded weakly as his muzzle clenched shut, knowing that there wasn’t much he could say to help with Sombra’s ever-present troubles. Even if he and Cadance forgave the Ex-King for his past, they knew that there were likely dozens, if not hundreds of Crystal Ponies in this very ballroom who probably felt differently. And even if Sombra was fully forgiven in the near future, the secret that both stallions carried would shatter that dream in a heartbeat. But despite that lingering truth hanging over their heads like matching Swords of Damocles, Shining Armor stayed attentive towards his Prince as he heard him speak following another sigh

“Y-You know, I… I never really thanked you for standing up for me those first couple months…”

Shining’s brows raised upon hearing that statement, not expecting Sombra to speak so solemnly about something that happened almost a year ago. Nevertheless, the stallion could recall how difficult those first few weeks went by with trying to reform such a bitter relic of the past, while also dealing with countless pleas from the Crystal Ponies to imprison or execute him for his crimes. While he didn’t blame them for a second for feeling so vindictive, Shining was glad he stood his ground in following his sister’s lessons of forgiveness. Even if that lead to Sombra eventually overtaking his life in such a profound and overbearing way, the pony knew that he wouldn’t have taken his choice back for a second.

“And…” Sombra continued to speak in a faint and truthful tone of voice, which helped to keep Shining’s mind from trailing off in reminiscence. “... Even though I’m sure you’re aware of how grateful I am for both you and Cadance's generous deeds, I… I really do feel that I should tell you stallion-to-stallion how deeply that means to me.”

Shining blinked a couple times, clearly taken aback as he heard how honest Sombra’s words were coming out within his solemn tone. After taking a deep breath, Sombra gave his Guard a loving smile as he extended his hoof and said, “Shining Armor, I… I want you to know that despite how I may treat you sometimes, I will never forget how wonderful of a stallion you are for myself and Princess Cadance. You’ve given the two of us so much to be grateful for in the past few months, and I… I couldn’t even begin to describe how much that means to me.”

Shining may have known that Sombra truly respected him as a friend, but hearing such an assurance prompted him to smile wide and respond accordingly. Even though he wanted to hug the Prince tightly in assurance, he withheld himself enough to settle with a respectful shake of Sombra’s hoof. The older stallion smiled warmly as the two made that genuine gesture of respect and admiration for one-another, neither of them needing to say a word to emphasize how close they became.

“Well, I… I’m really grateful to have you around too, Sombra,” he said before letting go of the Prince’s hoof. After making a quick glance around to make sure nopony was trying to listen in, Shining smiled back at his friend and said in a more upbeat tone, “I mean… I know how weird it is to actually say that. E-Especially now, but… B-But I know that there’s no reason to lie to myself anymore. I…”

Shining paused briefly enough to close his eyes, and take a deep breath to prepare himself for what he said next. He could feel his cheeks blushing hard, but he ignored that as he looked back up at Sombra and said, “I... have absolutely no regrets about asking you to come to our room that night. A-And… And if I were to go back to that moment, I… I wouldn’t have changed a thing.”

Sombra’s brows rose in genuine surprise, but his smile was wide as it was grateful as he nodded in admiration. “Well… I don’t think it needs to be said now, but… I certainly don’t regret showing up either~”

The two then chuckled with sly and knowing smirks on their faces, trying to keep their demeanors in check so nopony would look at them suspiciously. Fortunately, neither of them seem to be eavesdropped on as Sombra sighed pertly, and decided to ask in a more hushed tone, “So, ummm… Shining? If you don’t mind me saying, I… I’ve contemplated giving you something special tonight as a reward for your friendship~”

Shining’s head tilted in surprise, and he stared up at him as he asked, “Uhhh… A reward?”

Sombra’s eyes rolled back while he smiled innocently, and he gave a cheeky smirk as he replied with, “Welllllllll… Considering how well you’ve been acting recently, I… figured I should give you a much-needed gift~”

Shining blinked a couple times, and tried not to smile in optimism despite feeling a glimmer of hope. “Wh… What kind of gift?~”

Sombra looked around for a second to make sure they were safe, and then leaned in to ask rather devilishly, “Shining… Before I came along and... well, you know… have you and Cadance ever wished to do anything that you haven’t yet?~”

Shining’s eyes widened significantly, and he had to take a moment to keep himself from thinking anything was amiss. “Do… Do you…” Shining looked around as well before getting in close to Sombra and whispering, “... Do you mean in the bedroom?”

“No, I mean in the kitchen,” Sombra replied sarcastically while shooting a flat stare back at him. “Yes, I mean in the bedroom, Shining Armor~ Is… Is there anything you two may have wished to do but haven’t?”

Shining was looking more surprised with each passing second, and he had to breathe out hoarsely before tugging at the collar of his suit. While Sombra stood expectantly and waited for a response, the stallion had to take a moment to properly think his Prince’s question over. “Ummm… W-Wow, I… I honestly didn’t think I’d ever hear you ask me that…”

Sombra huffed with an understanding shrug, and felt comfortable with saying, “Well… Considering how much you’ve done for me, I… sort of figured you would appreciate me doing something for you~”

Shining wanted to ask if that was a joke, but one look at Sombra’s waiting smile made it clear that it likely wasn’t. The Guard smiled a little more notably, and blinked a couple more times before realizing how serious his Prince was. “W… Wait, do… do you mean…”

Sombra just gave a warm smile as he nodded his head. “Yes, Shining. I want to give you something special, so… I want to know what you always wanted to do with her. And if you tell me now, I… I doubt she would mind letting it happen for you tonight~”

Shining’s hoof shot over his mouth while he stood wide-eyed, looking like he was dreaming. Despite how much he was able to accept himself as a cuckold, the opportunity to actually be with Cadance himself again made his heart skip a beat. He looked like he wanted to cry tears of joy, but was luckily able to maintain his composure while in such a crowded ballroom. Nevertheless, the stallion still needed a moment while he collected his breath, and fanned his blushed face with a hoof to calm down. “Ohmigosh… Ohmigosh, I… I… I can’t believe it…”

Sombra sighed more sharply while rolling his eyes, making his impatience clear towards the stallion. Fortunately, Shining was quick to huff in acceptance of his Prince’s offer before saying with a flustered smile, “O-Okay! Ummm… Well, I… I suppose if I had to answer honestly, I… I think the one thing I never got to do was… Ummm…”

Shining’s blush deepened quite a bit, which made Sombra grin naughtily upon seeing it. The Guard then looked around in paranoia before he leaned in close to Sombra’s ear. He cupped his hooves over it as he whispered his answer, not wanting to even contemplate saying it out-loud for any Crystal Pony to accidentally overhear.

After saying that specific word, Shining pulled back with a heavy blush and an awkwardly clenched muzzle. Meanwhile, Sombra just scoffed with a confused grin while eyeing the pony and shaking his head. Unlike Shining, the Prince was far less cautious of their setting as he asked in puzzlement, “Really, Shining? Your… Your answer is anal?”

Shining cringed hard as he darted his head around, hopeful that nopony heard Sombra say that. Meanwhile, the Prince just covered his face with a hoof while chuckling to himself in amusement. After making sure the two were okay, Shining let out an upset-sounding sigh as he stared back at Sombra and said, “W-Well, we… we never got around to it, okay?! And, uhhhh… Well… Neither of us were sure how to really, like… prepare for that sort of thing. Like… hygienically…”

“Ah,” replied Sombra with a raised hoof, “say no more.” Even though he was still a little surprised the two never did that, Sombra didn’t saything too judgemental to the Guard about his inexperience. However, Sombra did take a moment to think over that response before smirking mischievously at the pony. “Heh~ So… You’re saying that you experienced it before she did, huh?~”

Shining’s pout was unmistakably miffed as he looked away from him in embarrassment. While the pony blushed profusely upon recalling that… unexpected addition during Sombra and Cadance's wedding, the Prince just cackled to himself silently while eyeing the cuckold. “Oh, jeeze… No wonder that’s been on your mind~”

Shining winced even harder, and squirmed in place as he tried to counteract Sombra’s teasing jabs. Unfortunately, all that could come out of his wrinkled muzzle was a strained-sounding, “Mnnnghhh…”

Sombra chuckled a bit more subtly after hearing that, and eventually relented as he sighed and rolled his eyes. “Oh, alright then,” he said in dismissal, not wanting to rile Shining up too badly in a public space. However, the Prince wasn’t one to let an issue like Shining’s slide after the promise he made. So after waiting for Shining to settle down, Sombra reached into the pocket of his tux to pull out a small bag of bits. “Here,” he said while handing his money to the timid stallion. “We still have plenty of time before we start speeches, so I want you to go get the essentials you’d need to make this right~”

Shining jolted a little in surprise, and just stared back at him wide-eyed before he could ask, “Wait, r… r-really?”

“Why of course~” assured Sombra with a comforting grin on his fanged muzzle. “If you haven’t been able to perform such a simple feat, you might as well give Cadance the chance to experience it tonight~ So… I want you to head to a shop and buy some lubricant, as well as anything else you might need. Alright?”

After blinking a couple times in stunned silence, Shining was able to process Sombra’s request enough to nod his head with a meager smile. “A… A-Absolutely! If… If you say I should, th-then who am I to say no?”

“That’s the spirit~” Sombra smiled at his Guard proudly while patting him on the shoulder with his hoof. Shining nodded back at him with an antsy grin, looking downright giddy to actually have a chance this unexpected. However, just as Shining was about to pull away to head to a pharmacy, he was stopped when Sombra’s grip tightened a little. When Shining looked back at his Prince, his eyes widened when he saw Sombra’s expression turn more serious.

“But… With that being said, Shining Armor… You must understand that this isn’t just some opportunity I’m offering you for nothing. Despite what you may have given me, I’m going to need something big as payment for this chance. Do you understand what I’m saying?”

Shining immediately started looking worried again, but he was able to breathe in before nodding with a bitten lip. “Mmnghh… I… I-I understand…”

“Alright then.” Sombra gave a confirming nod after seeing the Guard’s cooperation, and pulled his hoof away to reach into his suit pocket. The Prince looked around discretely as he got in close to Shining’s side, and whispered brashly, “Quick, take this and put it in your pocket.”

Shining went to reach into Sombra’s jacket, but froze with a shocked gasp the instant he saw what the Prince was holding on him this entire time. The Guard’s eyes widened in intense worry, and his hoof trembled while sticking out a couple inches from Sombra’s pocket. Meanwhile, Shining Armor’s hot pink collar, leash, and ‘CUCK’ tag were seen clear as day inside of the Prince’s waiting jacket.

“I said take it!” Sombra hissed as discreetly as he could, which was just enough to make Shining comply without thinking. The Guard was blushing profusely as he took his taboo items with his hoof, and quickly shoved them into his own pocket before anypony could see the exchange. As soon as he pulled back and breathed out sharply, Shining winced upon seeing the serious stare his Prince was giving him.

“Now… I need you to listen to me carefully,” Sombra said in a deep and intimidating tone, making it clear that his cuckold of a Guard had to listen. “Shining Armor, I know for a fact that you carry the same trust with me as you do with Princess Cadance. And with that, I also know that as of recently, you’ve come to fully accept yourself into the role you’ve been assigned since the beginning. Is that correct?”

Shining was blushed heavily in nervousness, but he kept his muzzle closed as he nodded sheepishly up at Sombra.

“Good,” he stated dutifully before he continued. “Now, I know from Twilight that you’ve come to feel more comfortable with yourself as well, so… I want you to be able to prove to me, without a shadow of a doubt in your mind, that you’re willing to show just how serious you are about the life you wish to have under Cadance and I.”

Shining nodded his head shakily a second time, but his eyes darted around to make sure nopony was staring that the two while Sombra was acting like this. Fortunately, the two seemed to be surprisingly isolated while the Prince continued with a hoof pointed at Shining’s jacket. “Some time before this event is over, I expect you to use what you have accordingly, Shining Armor. I won’t tell you what you need to do, nor will I tell you when you need to do it. But some time tonight, before we’re back inside of our bedroom, I expect you to know how to present yourself when the moment comes. Because if you want to earn my respect, you need to show me that you know your place...”

Sombra then leaned in close to the Guard’s trembling and blushed face, and asked with a sickly-sweet smile that made his fangs glisten. “And do you know what your place is, Shining Armor?~”

Shining closed his eyes as he nodded his head, not needing to look at his Prince to know he needed to say it. While his cheeks grew much deeper with blush, the Guard gulped worriedly before looking Sombra in his menacingly red eyes. He then exhaled softly before opening his mouth, and saying in a somewhat-audible whimper, “I… I’m… I’m a cuckold…”

Sombra gave a firm and satisfied smile as he nodded in confirmation, and responded with, “That’s right, Shining. And if you’re willing to prove to me that you understand that just as well as I do, then I might make your evening worth it~”

Shining knew that what Sombra was asking him was beyond insane, and likely something Cadance would’ve stopped any other time in this relationship. However, as his heart swelled in a strange mixture of realization and optimism, the Guard’s desire to prove himself and have a chance to be with Cadance prompted him to nod his head firmly. He then took one final breath before he looked up at Sombra confidently, and said, “I… I understand completely, Sombra.”

Since it was too dangerous for Shining to give a salute to him in this open space, the Prince allowed him to leave immediately so he could get the necessary items. The Ex-King then sighed with a satisfied hiss, and glanced back at his old throne before scoffing playfully. “Heh~ And to think,” he said to himself in a hushed tone, “I used to think I needed that to have power~”

By the time Shining returned from acquiring his necessary items at a nearby convenience store (where he endured an obvious smirk from the clerk during the transaction), Princess Cadance's Maternity Celebration was going into full swing with music and positive vibes all around. Even though the Princess received the majority of the night’s praise and presents from Crystal Ponies, Shining was happy to have been pulled aside a few times for celebratory drinks and personal gifts himself. As for their daughter Flurry Heart, the filly was given more than enough attention from her Aunt and Grandparents to appreciate her Mother’s special night too. Of course, even with all the elated and blissful ponies that flooded the Crystal Ballroom that night, there were very few with smiles as prideful or unfaltering as Sombra’s.

Fortunately for the former Tyrant, it didn’t seem like there was any hint of suspicion from the party’s attendees as the night went on. Even when Sombra spent a fair portion of the night standing beside Cadance while she received her praises for having another foal, the close proximity between the two didn’t raise any brows. In fact, the stallion seemed to be tolerated a lot easier by many of the party-goers, including the Crystal Ponies themselves. While he knew his status likely wouldn’t be improved too much by his positive presence, he was able to appreciate spending at least one night among the ponies with a more peaceful state of mind.

About an hour into the festivities, a massive buffet was laid-out that would’ve rivaled many of Las Pegasus’ most exclusive resorts. Fortunately, that was just around the time that Princesses Celestia and Luna arrived to partake in the evening’s celebrations as well. While Twilight was beaming with pride at how successfully everything was going, Shining admittedly had the tiniest twinge of guilt upon seeing how much the Crystal Ponies contributed to this event. Even though he knew better than to dwell on the massive elephant in the room, he couldn’t help but worry how horribly things could’ve gone if even just one of them knew the baby wasn’t actually his.

But despite how terrifying those hypotheticals may have been playing out in his head, Shining Armor couldn’t deny that he also felt immensely proud of Cadance for embracing this night for what it was. Regardless of what the truth may have been, the fact remained that he was helping her raise another child; and in the end, Shining knew he was going to be just as dedicated and caring of a parent with Sombra’s foal as he was with Flurry Heart. Each time he caught a glance of that beautiful Princess, he felt a deep warmth inside of his chest when he saw just how brightly her smile was glowing throughout the night. And by the time most of the dishes were served and everypony got themselves seated, all that Shining felt was a strong sense of contentment while he sat next to Cadance at the main table.

Well, that and a slight sense of intimidation, since Sombra was seated next to Cadance's other side at that same table.

Luckily for the three, even the Princesses weren’t too judgemental about their former enemy having such a prime seating spot at the head of the ballroom for this occasion. Because of that, Princess Cadance seemed to consider his presence to be the perfect opportunity to make an announcement. So while Shining Armor was finishing his eggplant parmesan, and Twilight was tending to Flurry Heart beside her parents, Cadance only waited a moment before she pulled herself up from her seat. Sombra raised a brow curiously, but only smirked in silence while the Alicorn tapped her empty glass with a fork.

The metallic clinking may have been fairly soft among the sea of chatting and giggling ponies in the audience, but it was also subtle and distinct enough to catch everypony’s attention rather quickly. When most of the murmuring and whispered voices died down, Princess Cadance smiled gratefully before clearing her throat. “Fillies and Gentlecolts,” she began in a slightly overwhelmed, but still thankful tone of voice, “I have to say... considering how quickly this all came together since I learned the news myself this morning, I… I couldn’t have asked for a better example of unity and friendship in this wonderful Empire. And after seeing just how generous and caring you all were throughout the day, I just… I want to express my deepest thanks to each and every one of you~”

Everypony in the ballroom gave the Princess warm and boisterous round of applause, clearly appreciative of her kind words. Shining and Sombra clapped their hooves as well, both of them looking equally as honored as their Princess did. However, considering how the Alicorn was standing between the two seated stallions, neither of them could look over at each other to nod in approval while she continued. “And with that being said… I do feel that now is the right time to make another announcement.”

Shining and Sombra both looked up at Cadance with surprised expressions, neither of them sure what the Princess was going to say. Even though it was doubtful she’d choose now to come out about anything too secretive (unless Cadance had a death-wish), both stallions had to bite their tongues with the slightest feelings of uncertainty. Luckily, the Princess’ peaceful smile and tone didn’t falter in the slightest as she motioned a hoof towards Shining Armor. “For you see… Shining Armor and I were lucky enough to have the time to discuss certain things before my pregnancy was confirmed. And with that, we… managed to come to an agreement we’d like to share.”

While the audience clapped and stomped in approval once more, Shining’s eyes widened while glancing up at her. Cadance smiled back with an approving nod, making it clear to the stallion that she expected him to share the news himself. Even though he wasn’t against making that sort of announcement (especially at an event like this, where the publicity could be overwhelmingly positive), Shining felt his heart shoot up to his throat as he looked around the massive space. Almost every pony or creature he knew was in attendance for this event, and he was about to make one of the biggest (and possibly one of the most controversial) announcements of his life.

And with that realization, Shining’s fur stuck up along the small of his back while recalling Sombra’s earlier words towards him:

… I won’t tell you what you need to do, nor will I tell you when you need to do it. But some time tonight, before we head back to our bedroom, I expect you to know how to present yourself when the moment comes...

The stallion’s hooves clenched tightly, and he had to swallow a couple times in a half-hearted attempt to keep his throat from going dry. Cadance may have not figured out what was running through Shining’s head, but she could tell that something was on his mind when she noticed how red his cheeks were becoming. Part of her wanted to assume that Sombra told him something he shouldn’t have said, but one quick glance back at him showed that he was unaware as she was. Because of that, the Princess turned her attention back towards the audience as she tried to give the Guard a little more time to collect himself.

“N-Now, ummm… Just for quick clarification, I’m sure that some ponies in this room might be very surprised, or… maybe even a little confused as to what we made an agreement on. But… in the past few months, I think it became clear to both of us just how drastically things can change. Whether it be how we treat each other, or… how we may see ourselves in relation to those actions…”

Even though Shining didn’t want to be seen doing anything odd at a time like this, it seemed that most of the audience had their attention set on Cadance while he slipped low into his chair. Twilight Sparkle, who was seated next to her brother’s other side, raised a brow as she looked at him confusedly. Fortunately, nopony seemed to note the younger Princess’ reaction while Cadance kept speaking professionally. “And… no matter what ponies might say, I think it should be clear to all of us just how important harmony really is. Whether that comes from seeking redemption, or accepting forgiveness, there should be no bounds as to what we can all achieve if we embrace the power of friendship.”

Due to the pleased round of applause that came with Cadance's well-spoken addition, nopony seemed to overhear Twilight’s shocked gasp. They also didn’t see the look on the Princess’ paled face, even though it was clear something was up due to how tightly the mare’s hooves were clasped over her mouth. Nevertheless, the attention was still kept on Cadance while Shining Armor began to get up from his chair. “So, without further ado,” she said with a courteous smile as she kept her eyes out towards the crowd, and had a hoof pointed towards the Guard, “I’m very pleased to have Shining Armor continue in my place~”

As she sat herself back down, the audience cheered and clapped in approval as the attention was brought towards the ‘Prince’. Sombra clapped his hooves as well, but his ears perked up when he overheard a few giggles and hushed murmurs from the crowds. It wasn’t until he heard Cadance silently gasp that he looked back towards her, and then up to the stallion she was trying not to gawk at. The instant he caught sight of Shining Armor, the Prince’s blood-red eyes shot wide-open.

“Fillies and Gentlecolts,” began Shining Armor as he spoke in a unfaltering and confident tone, not seeming to care at all that his pink collar was now proudly adorned around his neck. Even though his leash and tag were thankfully still in his pocket, it was obvious that many of the ponies in the room were staring at the strip of pink faux-leather that was peeking from beneath his tuxedo collar. But regardless of how much his collar stuck out against his black jacket and white coat, the stallion spoke with a wide and caring smile towards the crowd. “As many of you may know, Princess Cadance and I were unbelievably grateful to discover that as of this morning, she was confirmed to be carrying her second foal…”

Even though a large majority of the ponies in the crowd seemed confused as to the reason for Shining’s attire, he still received a modest round of applause for his opening statement. Cadance was staring daggers towards her husband, which caused Sombra to give a brief raise of his hooves and a bewildered smile in denial. Princesses Celestia and Luna had their eyes narrowed on Shining in slight suspicion, but didn’t say anything about his impromptu look. And while Twilight Sparkle covered her face with one of her hooves, she overheard her parents whispering to one another from the seats next to her.

“Honey, that looks like yours~” Velvet said with a sly-looking smirk, which caused Night Light to sink his face into his hooves to hide his blush. Unfortunately, Twilight heard that clearly enough to make her jaw drop in utter shock.

“And while the two of us couldn’t be happier with such an exciting reveal,” continued Shining as he spoke with an unwavering, and completely shameless demeanor that seemed to mask the presence of his collar, “... we both knew from experience, that some decisions had to be made immediately. Otherwise, we…” After a moment, Shining huffed before continuing with a guilty shrug of his shoulders. “... well, given how hectic things got with our first baby, Cadance and I wanted to be more prepared this time just in case~”

That mention managed to get a good round of laughter from the crowds, many of whom recalling first-hoof what their Prince was referring to. Twilight’s friends, who were seated at their own table close to the Royals, all snickered with knowing grins on each other in recollection. Fortunately, the laughter died down quickly enough for Shining to continue speaking confidently on the matter.

“So with that being said, we… actually came to an agreement on something important this morning. Even though we’re both aware how soon this may be confirmed… there’s no doubt in either of our minds that this is something we both feel is best…”

Shining took a deep breath, and maintained his smile as he looked out at everypony with his collar unhidden. “For you see… Princess Cadance is right about the importance of friendship, and also about how significantly the bonds we make can change the world around us. Whether our bonds help us learn more about others, or help us embrace ourselves more confidently, there’s no doubt that friendship can make us look at things differently throughout time. We’ve seen this happen time and time again following the vanquishment of Nightmare Moon, when my dear sister and her friends used their Elements to implement vast changes throughout this nation. Whether it be by the reformation of Discord, our newfound alliance with the Changeling Kingdom, or even the countless other ponies who have found change through Twilight Sparkle’s assistance, we shouldn’t doubt how powerful those bonds can affect our world for the better.”

Shining paused to allow another round of applause, which came in quite prominently in comparison to before. Even Twilight was honored enough to clap her hooves, and smiled at with her brother with the same level of impressment as she had with Cadance at that Garden Social. Meanwhile, Shining motioned out a hoof towards Sombra as he continued flawlessly, “For example, if it wasn’t for the immense generosity and kindness Cadance and I were able to give towards our former enemy, we wouldn’t have been able to realize just how good of a friend and ally he could be. For over the past few months, Sombra had shown nothing but the highest respect for both Cadance and myself, and has proven to both of us just how noble and kind he can be away from the throne he once oversaw. And while we’re both aware that there’s still a long road ahead for him, we have nothing but the utmost faith and trust in him to move towards a brighter future.”

Even though there was a notable decrease in hoof-claps following that addition, a large number of Non-Crystal ponies still applauded respectfully to his kind words. Sombra blinked a couple times while looking up at him, clearly surprised that the Guard could say such a thing with such genuine kindness in his heart. And with that collar being seen clear as day around his neck, it took everything in Sombra not to smile too wide with a look of pride.

“And to prove that notion,” said Shining as he looked back out towards the audience, and took one final breath in anticipation for his reveal, “... as well as to give a symbol of hope towards a brighter future for the Crystal Empire, Princess Cadance and I are happy to announce that we have chosen Sombra… to be our Official Royal Crystaller for our upcoming foal.”

Any applause that could’ve came from that announcement was quickly interrupted by an intense round of shocked gasps. Many of the Crystal Ponies had their mouths hung-open in utter shock, looking downright offended that their Leaders would allow such a thing. Shining and Cadance tried their hardest not to wince, and looked back at each other in worry that their idea may have not been the best. Meanwhile, Sombra was wide-eyed while seated in stunned silence, and had his hooves over his mouth to cover his touched expression.

Luckily, Twilight Sparkle was the first to make a response before any boos could begin around the ballroom. The younger Princess stood up on her chair with an honored smile, and brought her hooves together to begin a slow clap. For the first few claps of her hooves, nopony did a thing while staring at the Royal couple worriedly. But before the Princess could consider stopping, she heard another slow clap beginning to accompany her; she looked down at her friends’ table, and saw Rainbow Dash nodding back at her as she became the second clapper.

Two soon became three, as Starlight Glimmer joined in with solidarity. Soon enough, the rest of the Elements of Harmony all started to clap for the couple, much to Shining and Cadance's tearful thanks. Even though many of the Crystal Ponies still seemed apprehensive, any instant responses to the news couldn’t contain the growing applause that went around the ballroom. Like the end to a cheesy sports movie, that one clap helped to slowly bring everyone around in support for Cadance and Shining’s controversial decision.

In less than a minute, even the Crystal Ponies were able to reluctantly clap and applaud in support of everypony else in the room. By that point, Sombra was literally beginning to tear up as he stood from his chair with a shocked, but undoubtedly grateful smile towards Shining and Cadance. His wife got up from her chair to stand beside the Guard, and their joined applause alongside the rest of the room caused Sombra to cover his trembling mouth with a hoof. Just as the journalist ponies in the back began to take pictures of this historic event, Sombra lunged in to hug both of them at the same time with a wide and emotional smile.

Nothing was said for several minutes as the lovely moment passed its course, with even the Royal Sisters smiling and applauding while teary-eyed. Despite the stallion’s horrid past, as well as his still-lingering fangs and red eyes, there was no doubt that Sombra looked like a completely changed pony by the time he pulled back from Shining and Cadance. The smile he gave to both of them showed nothing but the purest thanks, not needing any words to emphasize how close their friendship really became. Even a few of the Crystal Ponies appeared touched when they saw that exchange, which kept them from trying to protest what was undoubtedly a beautiful moment.

The two tried to get Sombra to stand up and say something himself, but the Prince quickly sat himself back down and waved his hoof in dismissal. “U-Ummm… I-I’d rather get myself composed first, i-if that’s alright,” he said hoarsely with an overwhelmed smile, clearly looking like he was gonna start crying if he didn’t have the chance to settle down. Fortunately, Shining and Cadance seemed alright with that response as they brought their attention back to the crowds. While the Princess kept herself standing at the head of the long table, she motioned for Shining to sit back down while clearing her throat.

The moment Shining sat back down, Twilight had to lean in and whisper, “Shining… Pardon my Prench, but why the buck are you wearing that?!”

Since nothing bad happened to him, Shining showed no regret on his face when he smiled confidently back at his sister. “Sombra asked me to prove myself when the moment was right,” he whispered without any hint of shame while he shrugged his shoulders. “And… I think I did just that~”

Even though she was grateful her brother survived that ordeal unscathed, the Princess still huffed with a strong shake of her head with a befuddled look. “Oh, man… he better be offering you something big for that~”

Shining’s smile widened in an instant, and he leaned in closer to whisper antsily, “As a matter of fact… Sombra sai--”

“Now,” began Princess Cadance as she brought herself back to the attention of the ballroom, “before any ponies feel the need to question the motives of Shining Armor and myself, I just want to clarify just why we felt that Sombra was a valid choice for our Royal Crystaller…”

Shining stopped his explanation towards his sister, and looked back at Cadance alongside everypony else. During a brief pause in her words, Cadance glanced back at her Guard with a faint, but still suspiciously noticeable smirk. Shining wasn’t sure what the Alicorn was planning, but his brows raised worriedly when he saw her give a sly wink before turning back towards the crowd.

“For you see…” Princess Cadance lit up her horn, which caused a bright blue aura of her magic to illuminate before the audience. But from Shining’s perspective, his attention went down to the bottom of Cadance's dress as he saw a hue of her magic within it. Meanwhile, the Alicorn continued her speech without any hint that something was amiss. “... over the past few months, Sombra has shown immense progress towards bettering himself, and to be seen as a productive member of our society. And despite the controversies that his presence may have brought to this castle, there’s no denial that he has not acted the same as he had before. And the reason for that is very simple. Sometimes, when it comes to overcoming your past...”

With that pause, Cadance discreetly floated out a small item that she had been hiding underneath her dress. The moment Shining saw up-close what she had in her magic, his eyes widened sharply enough to make it look like he was about to have a stroke. His face paled intensely, and he breathed in deep through his nostrils while struggling to hide his look of unbridled fear. By that point, Sombra was able to wipe any tears from his face as he leaned back in his heat, and shot Shining a wide and deceptive grin.

Meanwhile, the Princess between them kept her focus on the crowds while she held up a small golden key. Twilight tilted her head in confusion for a second, but then quickly turned back towards her brother wide-eyed. Of course, Shining’s pupils were shrunken to the size of pins as he looked up at his smirking Princess, and saw the key to his chastity cage hovering in her aura. He didn’t want to think this was going to happen (especially not now), but he was proven terribly wrong as he heard her finish her statement:

“... the best way to move forward is to put your demons behind you, and to lock up those troubles before breaking the key~”

Shining’s legs clenched tightly beneath the table, but that strain was nothing compared to the massive throb he felt his cock giving inside of his plastic prison. His breathing started to turn quick and rapid, making him feel like he was going to suffocate in dread. Even if he was keeping himself looking collected on the outside, he was mentally shitting himself while tugging on the side of his collar with a hoof. Part of him wanted to think this was just a joke, or maybe a misunderstanding between Cadance and Sombra; unfortunately, the instant he leaned back to look towards Sombra, he was met with a devilishly wide grin as Sombra gave a mocking shake of his head.

“What?~” asked the Prince in a cheeky whisper as he narrowed his eyes on him. “I said I’d give you the chance to let Cadance experience something new tonight. Did you really think I meant you would do it yourself?~”

Shining felt his heart sink into his chest like it was attached to several bricks. By the time he looked back ahead towards the waiting crowd, it wasn’t long before he noticed Princess Cadance looking back at him with a sensual-looking smirk of her own. She may have not known about Sombra’s “promise” towards Shining earlier that night, but it didn’t seem like she would’ve cared nonetheless. And despite how Shining’s mouth was trying to open and close like a fish out of water, it was obvious that nothing could be said to stop this from happening. Not only did Sombra promise him this would occur, but Shining agreed to it back when he and Cadance discussed what she was going to do.

She was going to break the key to his chastity cage. From then on, Shining was going to have his stallionhood locked up for good. He would never be able to masturbate, or even achieve an erection without experiencing the painful constraints of his cage. He would never be able to achieve orgasm again, despite how badly he was hoping to that night. And despite what he assumed Sombra was going to give him, Shining knew that he would likely never be inside of a mare again.

But despite all that, Shining couldn’t cross his legs tightly enough to keep his cock from throbbing intensely hard inside of his cage from the anticipation.

So while the cuckold sat in stunned silence without any sign of resistance, Cadance looked back out to the crowds while holding the key close to Shining’s face. “Sombra has proven himself time and time again, to be a more than suitable stallion for the job. And through his dedication towards myself and Shining, as well as his passionate drive and compassion, I can safely say that I have no doubts that he’s a better pony in every way~ So with that being said… my husband and I are honored to solidify this event by locking the past behind…”

Cadance then closed her eyes to brighten up her horn, and caused the key to illuminate strongly within her magic. Like a piece of metal being thrown into a furnace, Shining could only watch through hollowed eyes as the key to his chastity cage changed colors from the growing heat the Princess was giving it. The golden metal soon turned a bright shade of red, and then became a blisteringly white-hot to show how sensitive it became from her aura. And just as Shining felt like he had it in him to speak up, it was too late as Cadance said with a final breath, “... and… breaking the key!~”

With one final surge of her magic, Princess Cadance opened her eyes just in time to see Shining’s key shatter like a piece of fine crystal. The Guard’s mouth was hung open in gawked shock as he saw that metal key break into dozens, if not hundreds of individual fragments before his very eyes. He wasn’t sure if he felt more pain from his heart breaking to such a horrible sight, or from his cock straining unbelievably hard in his restraints. But whichever feeling it was, the collared cuck felt a strong bout of numbness sweep throughout his system the instant Cadance gave that key another zap of her magic, and turned all those fragments into a fine dust that sprinkled down like glitter.

Everyone on the ballroom applauded happily, as the remnants of Shining’s chastity cage key floated down into a pile of dust in front of him on the table. Shining tried his hardest to bring up his hooves and applaud as well, but his forced smile was just barely hiding how immensely hurt he felt from that sadistic display. From now on, the Guard had to live with the fact that along with being a cuckold, AND having his former wife taken from him, that the two have gone out of their way to put him in permanent chastity. As far as he was concerned, Shining knew that his chances of ever using his stallionhood were as eviscerated as his key.

But despite that horrifying revelation, Shining was mostly upset that his cock was still trying to grow hard in his now inescapable prison.