“Because,” Cadance snickered at my usual stupidity, a small break in her tired face. “We got sent to the Crystal Empire to keep King Sombra out, and we’re a bit…” Her face fell. Her horn’s also been lit the whole time. “Worn thin. We have a battalion of guards, but none of them can really do anything.” She slowly walked over to me, like it took a great deal of effort. “Sorry about stuffing you in the suitcase, I think Shiny was the one who did that, and not noticing. We’ve… got bigger fish to fry right now. For instance, King Sombra- eep!” Cadance flinched back when I licked her nose and nuzzled into her.