Prologue
Princess Cadence sighed heavily as she watched the newly crowned Twilight Sparkle enjoying the festivities of the coronation with her friends. The sweet smells of fresh apple pastries and the beautiful flowers of the Canterlot gardens wafted up to where she stood on the balcony overlooking the party. Princess Celestia stood by the fountain chatting with dignitaries from the Crystal Kingdom. The beautiful alicorn, nay, goddess, positively radiated grace and power. Every so often, she would glance over at her latest prodigy and smile with pride and joy. Cadence's heart grew heavy as she tried to recall the last time her Princess had looked at her with such elation.
The soft sound of light hoofsteps on stone signaled that Cadence was no longer alone. She glanced back to see Princess Luna. Luna regarded her once rival now turned dear friend with sympathy and concern. Cadence looked back out at the party and hoped Luna had not seen her tears.
"I know your sadness, young one, but take comfort in the knowledge that joy will come again. Our existence is not always so bad, and now we have a new sister."
"I know, Luna. I've known for a long time. I've tried to distance myself from it by taking a mate and volunteering for diplomatic missions, it's just…it hurts so much to see it so plainly."
"I am sorry, Cadence. Forgive me if it seems I do not feel it as well. Time may dull the pain, but I promise you, I still feel it." The two watched quietly for a moment, trying to soothe the broken pieces of their souls that remained.
"She's so happy, Luna…" Cadence said quietly, watching the young mare beam in the adoration of her Princess.
"She is. However, it will not be long before she seeks us out, my sister. It would seem our Lady tires of her amusements more quickly as time goes by. Let us hope she is as strong as Celestia believes her to be."
"We can only hope."
At the same moment, both princesses felt a commanding pull in their minds followed by a nearly overwhelming urge to acquiesce. "Come, Cadence. Our Lady calls us."