Chapter III: Enemy of Mind

Ri-Riiiiiing

Sombra

Ri-Riiiiiing

The time to rest is over... Wake up

Ri-Riiiiiing

I need you, Sombra. Wake up!

Ri-Riii--

"Wake up, ya idgit!"

Sombra's eyes and mouth opened as another bucket of water poured down his face. The dark stallion coughed, trying not to accidentally inhale the liquid.

"'Bout time ya woke up. Ya must have been out for about 4 hours. Knock'd out real good, I guess" the southern voice chuckled.

As he manage to catch his breath, his eyes would strain to adjust on the misshapen figure in his blurred vision. Once his focus was in order, he was greeted by the smug grin of the orange earth mare who cuffed him a headache back in the Inn. It would only take a couple of jerks from his body to noticed that he was tied by the limbs and seated against the wall of a tent. He grunted, testing how tight the rope was tied around him by trying to break out with mere strength. A minor setback as most as it didn't stop him from forming a spell to burn the ropes off...

... Only it did as a shock of electricity jolted through his neck the moment he thought about magic; forcing a roar in pain out of him. A small, giggling sound caught his attention as he glared to the pink mare sitting on a stool by the orange mare; winking at him while waving a small black remote control with two buttons to press into.

They put a shock collar on him to prevent him from using magic. Clever...

His narrowed gaze and bared teeth would shift back to the orange earth mare giving him a judgmental look now. "Where am I?" was his first question.

"Yer at the resistance base." AJ replied. "Lucky we found y'all before any reinforcements from the caribou came stompin' by that inn. That one mare runnin' like a maniac alerted a nearby squad that apprehended her and went back to de Inn to investigate the ruckus."

The resistance. So they had made it at least. That much was a relief. But then...

"Where is Dash?"

"That's not important fer you to know right now." She snorted, walking up to him before taking a seat on her stool. "Right now, yer being interrogated, yer majesty" She said, with in a mocking tone when saying those words. "So I'll be the one asking the questions around here."

Sombra grunted in response. As much as he would love to get into a staring contest of daggers with the orange earth mare, he had better things to do. So he might as well just play along.

"Very well. Let's have it then.." he replied.

At the snap of her fingers, the pink mare bounced up to the side of the tent before bringing out a big lamp to shine over his face. He hissed; squinting his eyes from how harsh and close the light was to his face.

"How are ya alive? Yer suppose to be dead!"

"If you ask pointless questions like that, we'll be here all day--omph!" he grunted feeling his chest kicked in by a powerful boot.

"I asked you a question. And I expect an answer. How are ya alive!" she repeated, arching her eyebrows at him.

"Gah! I don't know!" he growled. "I just woke up in this frozen wasteland by a tree; alone and cold and with no idea how I was alive!"

"Would 'ave done everyone a favor if ya just freezed to death.." she muttered. "What were you planning to do with Rainbow Dash? Mind break her to do your bidding? As if she hadn't been through that enough?!"

"On the contrary, I saved her from being sold to a fat slob in a traffic accident."

"Better some 'fat slob' than another tyrant tryin' to take Equestria for himself!"

"Now that's a horrible thing to say. What would her reaction being to knowing her best friend said such a thing?"

"Shut up!" She snapped; raising her foot and pressing it against his chest. "I suggested you answer the damn question less you want yer chest cave in from collateral damage!"

The old black unicorn chuckled. "Such empty threats.."

"Wanna try me, partner?"

"You can kick the ever loving shit out of me if you'd like. Doesn't change the fact that I hold more of an advantage over the circumstance than your little 'camp' of rebels."

That seemed to have strike a nerve as the orange mare kicked him harder into the torso before grabbing him by the collar and lifting him high in the air; eyes blazing green and teeth bared.

"Listen here, ya son of a bitch! The only advantage you have is the time I haven't spent panting you firmly in the ground and makin' sure you stay dead. Life in Equestria has been awful! The caribou come and banned us slaves! The Princesses and elements ruined! And now your up and kickin'?! Give me one good reason not to send you back to tartarus right now, Sombra!"

"Applejack, that's enough!"

Both ponies turned to see the familiar raspy voice of Rainbow Dash entering the tent; now in her own black jumpsuit with silver buttons and zippers. The tyrant was dropped back on the ground, grunting as he watched Applejack turn towards her friend.

"I thought I told ya to stay out of this, RD!" she said firmly. "You're safe and sound now. There's no more need to be anywhere near this black hearted bastard."

"Applejack... While I appreciate your thinking about me and all, there's more at stack here then holding grudges against beaten foes." Rainbow said; walking towards the orange mare. "As much as I hate to say this, Sombra could be a really powerful ally here.. We need him"

"Need him for what!? For him to just back stab us later, corrupt us and make us his slaves once the caribou are out of his way? There's no real justification for keeping this evil bastard alive and you know it! He's just as twisted and despicable as the goddamn caribou!"

"He's one of us!" She protested. "Yeah, he's an asshole and a shady son of a bitch.."

"And here I thought we were becoming good friends.." Sombra added; sounding offended.

"But he's still a pony. He wants Equestria freed from the caribou's clutches just as much as we do."

Applejack would scoff. "I can't believe how stubborn and thick headed you are sometimes; trusting the words and promises from a snake! He's just using you, Rainbow Dash. Hell, he's already used ya by the smell of it.."

This caused the blue mare to looking away, blushing madly while rubbing her arm.

"Yea, don't think mah nose doesn't tell when a mare's been rollin' in the hay! I can't believe you'd let this bastard touch you!"

"H-Hey! What choice did I have? I was drugged! They laced my tea, he was the closet dickhead and I wasn't strong enough to try and resist during that night."

"A night of passionate hate sex, I might add~" The black stallion added cheekily.

"Will you shut it?!" Rainbow snapped at him. "You're not exactly helping your case here!"

"And why should I? Why should I hide and pretend to be something I'm not? I am a former dictator given a second chance to reclaim this land in my name; I will not hide it! To any of you." He exclaimed, his gazed cast on the three mares glaring at him. "You and I are of the same species and share a common enemy; the similarities and connection between us end there." His gazed shifted sololy onto Applejack. "But if you want to give your resistance the best outcome possible in taking Equestria back from those idiots, you'll do as I say and release me!"

"You've got some nerve thinkin' Imma just stand by while another monster comes in an--" She voice and fist were caught by the hands of her dear friend.

"AJ, Please!" She said, a little more softly. "Quite being stubborn and listen here! I know we can't trust him! I know he's bad... But he might be our only powerful ally left.."

The mare was shaking, furious beyond recognition. Her green eyes burned hatred for the dark unicorn as tears began to pour from her cheeks. With a weary sigh, she lowered her hand and turned to the fallen Pegasus; trying to keep the sobs in her throat from escaping.

"I just..." she sniffled, rubbing the leaks from her eyes. "I thought I lost ya for good, RD! And to hear that you were with our old enemy, going as far to sleep with him... That's some scary stuff to take in, Rainbow! In a world losing of life and freedom.. I just don't wanna lose any more friends.."

Rainbow would pull the quivering strong mare into her arms, embracing her. "I know... I missed you guys too. I was so scared that I wouldn't see you again.." her voice cracked, trying her best to not cry as well before reaching out to pull her friend into a tight embrace. The two stayed like that for what felt like minutes passing by slowly; lose in the warmth of each other. Then another set of arms wrapped around them. They turned to see Pinkie Pie; smiling sadly with tears flowing down her puffy cheeks as all three pulled close to each other. For once, there was safety in the arms of the former champions of Equestria.

Sombra scoffed while his glare softened a bit, seeing the three rekindled their former strength. As much as he disliked this sort of sentiment, it was important for unity to thrive if they had any hope of surviving. Enemies they all may be, but together they would pose a much greater power against the true threat.

His ears twitched at the sound of hoof steps entering the tent. The grey mare with light purple mane in a greyish green jumpsuit made her entrance. "Lieutenant AppleJack." She asked in a dull monotone. "I'd hate to interrupt this touching reunion but... Lady Ewe is asking your presence in regards to Sombra."

The three mares would pull away from each other as Applejack regained her early authority, whipping the tears from her cheeks. "Alright... Tell her we'll be a few minutes. Almost done with our.. interrogation." she said casting a narrowed gaze at Sombra who arched an eyebrow at her.

It wasn't much an interrogation as it was her getting her hands on home to relieve all the tension burdening within her. Still...

Lady Ewe?

Was that the name of their leader?

His pondering didn't last long as he was brought up to his hooves. Rainbow would begin to untie the ropes binding his hands behind his back. Once his arms were free, he catered the rope burn around his wrists; rubbing tenderly. Before he could mutter a word of appreciation, AJ approach him with her gaze less harsh and her voice less blunt and aggressive while retaining what authority she had over him.

"Alright Sombra. Seein' as you did saved Rainbow and kept her safe, You're not.... well, you're not good, that's for sure. But you're not against us. So that's enough to let you stay here. But make no mistake.." She would pull his collar once more; her eyes narrowing into his burning reds. "One wrong move or use of dark magic against us, and I'll be sendin' ya packin' to that hole in da ground you crawled out of."

Sombra let a grin spread his bruised face.

"I suppose this would make us enemies of mind. Very well then... You won't have to worry much of me as I have no plans against you and your resistance. But... If you think you'll be enough to send me back to tartarus, you have a lot of catching up to do. I am much more formidable now then the last time we met." he threatened.

To that, the orange mare grinned back at him. "I would hope so. It be a mighty shame to have to count the alliance of a unicorn who couldn't best a baby dragon."

His horn flared up in anger as low growl escaping his throat before a quick jolt shocked the rising force of magic out of him; his glare turned to the giggling pink mare before the three of them turned to leave the tent with Sombra in toe. Rainbow would lightly jab at his shoulder playfully.

"Don't take it personally. But you have to admit, that is pretty hilarious" She snorted.

The only response Sombra dare give her was low muttering under his breath. Something about wanting to drive the extinction of every dragon once he was back in power.

...

Outsider. That was the best word to describe his position in the resistance camp.

He felt alienated from the many glances he received as he walked behind AppleJack and Rainbow through the camps. The day was cloudy with light snow falling over the grounds. From the few mares talking or working with each other, he could estimate at least over 100 had managed to escape and reside here. And at least 100 more were giving him a variety of looks. Some mares glared death his direction, others fear of his reputation while muttering his name to each other. And some seemed to be looking at him lustfully; as if he were the last stallion alive in a world barren of decency.

If not for the dystopia they were all forced to live in, Sombra was confident this would be the most uncomfortable thing he had gone through. Not only would he be expecting these ponies to believe in him to bring back their fallen country, but they had to be willing to follow his lead. This would have been so much more easier just to break their minds in.

"Gah!" he yelped, feeling his backside suddenly receive a very rough smack. His turned his attention to the bubbling pink mare behind him; looking innocent and pretending to whistle. He narrowed his eyes at her,

"What was that for?" he demanded. She gave a flirtatious smile and shrugged.

"She likes you." came the bored tone of her sister who was walking beside her. "She's very happy to have you as an ally rather than another enemy."

He huffed. This one was the more ecstatic of the bunch. What really impressed him was that despite the circumstances, she manage to not lose the bounce in her step. He staring caused her smile to widen and even making her bounce up and down more quickly.

"For such a childish mare, you'd expect her to be bursting with enthusiasm or at least singing for all to here.." he muttered.

"She's mute." Maud responded.

That take him aback. "I beg your pardon?!"

Pinkie Pie stopped her bouncing before opening her mouth wide and stick out her tongue... or what was left of her tongue. It looked to have been severed off. He gazed at it with a somewhat disturbed expression.

"When we were captured by the caribou." Maud began to explain. "They were having complaints about how much she was 'talking their dicks off' and how it 'killed the mood.' So they silenced her permanently by removing her tongue. She was sad for months on end.. But knowing my sister..." and she said this with a small smile. "She bounced back because she didn't want others to be so sad during these harsh times."

Pinkie would bob her head rapidly in agreement before resuming her bouncing. Sombra would rub the back of his head; sheepish about his previous comment.

"I'm terribly sorry.."

"Don't be." Maud said return to her default expression. "She's glad to express herself in... different ways."

It then drew his attention that Pinkie had pulled the zipper of her black jumpsuit further down to show of cleavage; her bust jiggling with each bounce she made. And to say the mare wasn't stack compared to Rainbow or AppleJack wouldn't do justice to how bountiful her breasts were. His eyes found her big wide blue ones; caught in a sultry gaze while she wiggled her eyebrows playfully. Sombra felt heat rush to his cheeks before he turned away from her and shuffled closer to Rainbow, whispering to her,

"You'd think that in a distopia where rape and misogyny runned rampant, it would be absurd to see all these mares looking to pounce on me with such lust in there eyes..."

"It's mostly the influence of being with the caribou for too long. Most of us can't help our loins from burning up and masturbation ain't cutting it. So while you're a wicked stallion with darkness and evil intentions... You're also kind of a hottie and probably have years in experience to knowing how to lay with a mare. So take it for what you will. Just don't get caught ogling over Pinkie or you might give them the impression that you're just an old pervert looking to bed all these fragile mares in need of a strong stallion to protect them~" Rainbow whispered, a knowing smirk spreading her muzzle.

"I wasn't--"

"Pipe down, will ya!" AppleJack cut in, her own face flustered from the chatter. "I don't wanna hear the details. I'd like to 'ave some decency in the mad ridden world!"

Sombra rolled his eyes, muttering to himself. He glanced back between the three and only now noticed the different colored collars. Around the necks of AJ and Rainbow were black while Pinkie sported a bright red one. He would lean forward to the blue Pegasus' ear.

"The collars... They mean something right?" he asked. He thought back to the caribou back in that cabin he crashed in; remembering vaguely about he mentioned something about the collars and their importance.

"Yeah.." She whispered. "It's a caste system the caribou have. Black collars are for mares that constantly fight and are in need of... 'adjustments'" she quivered at the word; imagining the implications. "Red's are for the mares that behave and do as they're told. Wither they're just going along to live or have given up and submit varies. Then there are the purple collars.."

"Purple?" He glanced over to the many mares still watching. Not a single shade of violet or purple around their necks.

"For mares who are too broken from so much abuse." She continued. "Because the caribou fucked with us so much, they shatter our minds to the point we can't function or think properly without them. It's a fate worse than death in my opinion.."

Indeed. A mind was a glorious thing to break. He would have many ponies submit to him this way... though the method was a lot more cruel sounding and less.. deprived from basically 'fucking them to death'.

"Can you take them off?"

"Pft. You'd think I'd still be wearing mind if I could?" she grunted. "They're bond magically around our necks; thanks to that magical Dildo placed in the Crystal empire."

The Crystal Empire. It felt like ages since he last heard of that place. His former kingdom. And it seemed that a majority of power was placed there. He noted this in his mind for when the time would come to put their rebellion into action. Oh... what had become of his empire? How much has it suffered from the caribou's tainted influence on the land?

"What became of the Prince and Princess of the Crystal Empire? Are they not your allies?" he asked, with a hint of loathing of the very ponies responsible for taking away his throne. To his surprise, however, Rainbow Dash returned a similar tone when she spoke next about them.

"Cadance and Shining Armor.... The traitors!" She hissed lowerly so not to draw attention from the rest of the mares in the camp. "It's still so hard to believe that such wonderful, caring people could betray their own country in favor of... of... this!" She curled her hands into a fist. It was a rather unbelievable thing to expect, but at the same time, Sombra couldn't help but find it ironic how the very beings that took over from him would turn there backs against their fellow countrymen.

"They sold us out!" she continued to rant. "Gave the crystal heart and everything when Dainn showed up and made every one of their subjects mere toys and slaves for their own amusement.."

Huh. Didn't that sound familiar.

"And their daughter... Christ above knows what they would have done if she had not escaped.." She commented, looking as if she would vomit at the possibility. Sombra felt a burning fire erupt within his chest. The very thought of their own daughter-- no.. the mere thought of children having to live in this land of barbarians and rapists filled the dark unicorn with rage. Never did he believe it was right to subject children into harsh environments or any of his torturous ways. If they were strong at their age, they would grow up to be proud warriors in his name at the very lease. But no filly or foal should have to suffer this punishment.

"I see..." he muttered darkly, adding to his mental list of reasons Dainn and his caribou swine would be slain during the public executions; once he ascended to the throne of course.

"What do you think has become of the young princess then? Where would she run off to?"

Before Rainbow could reply, AppleJack would hold out her hand to stop them. "Enough talk, ya'll. We're here."

Before them stood probably the tallest of the tents in the camp. It looked as if it were made from the very forest itself. Long branches and roots formed the poles while plant life and leaves waved against the wind. One flag was raised on the highest part of the tent; a banner showing what looked to be same logo the caribou used except the symbols of the Alicorn sisters breaking free of the chains. Two mares stood in front of the tent's entrance before both saluted to Applejack.

"Lady Ewe will see you, Lieutenant Dash and Sombra now." One said.

The orange mare nodded as the two guards pull back, the tent's fold opening. The three ponies would walk inside while the Pie sisters stood with the guards as the meeting with Lady Ewe was under way.

...

To say that the interior of the tent was even more enchanting than the exterior was an understatement. For the first time since his return to the world of the living, he saw... life. A blue flower glowed above in luminescent light; serving as a ceiling lamp. Only a single bed made of leaves and plant light was shown in the corner as the main desk took center of the entire tent. And sitting at that desk stood a cloaked figure.

She hummed to herself, seemingly not noticing the ponies as blue light poured from her finger tips. Sombra gazed as three glowing gems floated in her palm. Strange runes seemed to give off another light, beckoning every few seconds. This was magic he had not seen nor studied about. Who was this creature?

"Ahem." AppleJack coughed. "Lady Ewe?"

The humming stopped and the gems were paced back onto the table. Her head turned to gaze at the three ponies, a small smile spreading her features.

"Ahh! AppleJack. Forgive me, was reading the messages off the runes of these gemstones here. I see you brought our.. unexpected guest." she quipped; rising from her seat.

The creature was no pony. Her face and muzzle were much shorter, matching the features of a sheep. A tuff of white hair sat atop her head; adorned was a pair of horns that curved to the back. Her sapphire like eyes were curved and big, sparkling like the very gemstones she held. Bands of gold decorated her forearm with one placed on her ear. Her red cloak clung to her slender, yet curvy figure with the herm almost hiding her goat like hooves. But perhaps the most alluring part of her was the small markings and symbols on her face and arms; similar to the ones shining within the gemstone.

"Welcome." she greeted, doing a curtsy before placing her hands in front of her lap. "I am Ewe. It is.. a strange pleasure to meet one as yourself, Sombra."

It took the unicorn a moment to break his trance from how earthly beautiful she was. He cleared his throat before responding, "Like wise... though I have to admit. When hearing about a leader to a resistance of rebels, a small goat in robes was not the first thing to come in mind."

While the two mares gave a glare at him for such an insult, Ewe only rose an eyebrow at the comment.

"Really now... That's funny to hear from someone of your status. To judge someone sololy on appearance? And the term you are looking for is 'Faun'. I am not a goat."

He blinked before lowering his head down, though keeping his tone. "My apologies if I mean any offense."

"None at all." She chuckled. "Honesty is a strong trait to carry in a leader. Gives the people you want to lead a quality of trust they can have for you."

"Then you are aware of--"

Her smile spread slightly before nodding her head. "Yes, Sombra. I know who you are.. And what you are here to accomplish. Regardless on your dark ambitions, we are all here for the same reason, are we not?"

"The caribou..." Rainbow added in softly.

The Faun again nodded her head; her smile slowly fading into a natural line on her muzzle. "Have a seat, Sombra. I'm sure there is many questions you wish to ask. And I will gladly answer them; as long as you aren't afraid to answer a few of my own of course." she explained, taking a seat before him, her eyes locked in his.

He nodded before taking a seat into the opposing chair while Applejack stood by the side of Lady Ewe. Rainbow took the side of Sombra. This all felt... weird. Outside was a snowy almost barren land where danger was ready to strike at the moment. In here... It was comforting; just as she was comforting. How in the world did such a nice lady become in charge of leading a resistance?

"You appear to keep serenity and a peaceful atmosphere here." Sombra began. "A bit difficult during these harsh times wouldn't you say?"

"I feel it's important to maintain any sort of grace during the rough conditions of this once magical land." Ewe explained. "My magic here is limited, but it's just enough to hopefully inspire all these mares not to give up hope."

"And what... is your magic?"

The Faun would place her hand over the pendant around her neck, almost hidden within the hood of her robe. "A magic of the ancient times. Very old, but much stronger than the magic you and the other unicorns have been practicing for years."

He arched an eyebrow. "Does it have a name?"

She smiled, shaking her head once more. "It has many names, but it is above the names and labels teachers try to give it. For the magic is universal to all things and creatures to use. But for your sake, my people called it "Arcane" magic."

"Arcane...?"

"Mhm. A magic beyond spells or incantations that one can use without a command or thought. Not even the mightiest or wises of alicorns have been able to fully understand the unlimited potential one can do with such power."

"Wait, you're saying anyone can use it?"

She nodded. "It comes in many forms to different users. But it exists in all of us. Pegasus, Earth pony, Unicorn, Alicorn, Faun, Changeling, Dragon, it does not matter what you are! All are able to access it in one shape or form."

As if to demonstrate, Ewe would close her eyes, the symbols and markings around her would glow briefly as a vine grew from the flower lamp above. Slowly, it bloomed out bright blue petals as the Faun would raise a cup to it. The petals would part as clear water poured from the flower. Rainbow was at awe from seeing this power before turned to AppleJack; silently asking if she new Ewe was ever capable of doing this. The earth pony only offered a shrug; figuring the Faun was capable of.. something. But nothing like this!

Sombra, perhaps, was the most enchanted. Never in his studies or his time ruling an empire did he think a power like Arcane magic existed. Even the oldest form of dark magic that he had spent years perfecting in his training did not leave much to behold like what Ewe could do. The faun smiled, offering the cup for him to take. "Drink." She encouraged. "You must be very thirsty from the limited water available in caribou territory."

The dark unicorn stared into his cup, his reflection crystal clear in the waters. Slowly he brought the cup to his lips to take a sip. And... for something as simple as water, it was the most delicious thing he's tasted ever since coming back from the grave. He began to drink more of it, gulping down the glass until it was empty. He gasped before looking back at the goat lady, her smile and eyes showing a bit of a smug expression.

"I'll take that as a yes."

He cleared his throat, placing the cup down on the table. "Thank you." he responded, a hint of begrudge in his voice.

"So tell me... What's a Faun doing in Equestria? Leading a resistance against warmongers, no less? You seem to be more pacifist than war leader." he asked. Her smile would fade into a stiff frown, her eyes lowering to her hands.

"You are right to assume I'm not a native to these lands." She sighed. "If you have the patience for my tale, I will tell you it."

Sombra looked from the two mares, both only shaking their head as if to say they didn't have a clue. He looked back at Ewe before nodding to her. She took a slow breath before looking into her pendent.

"When I was young, war leader was never something I thought I would be. I was but a maiden along with my mother and siblings; learning the ancient dance and magic of our ancestors. We lived far from Equestria; in a land where nature was untouched and magic flowed through everything. A peaceful time, the men would go off and scout for food while the women would raise and teach the children." She chuckled, as if remembering the exact expressions they made before she frowned once more.

"Then one day, ships from the far north sailed to our land. Large bulks of beasts approached from the shores. The Caribou had arrived."

"And then they took yer land and made all the women there slaves, right?" AppleJack interrupted.

Ewe would shake her head. "Believe it or not, there was a time the caribou weren't just a bunch of warmongering rapists."

"... Say what?"

Sombra and Rainbow too stared at her in disbelief, questioning her on how the caribou were anything BUT rapist. The Faun continued.

"A brutal race of warriors, yes, but they once were noble and kind. Their leader, Goudin the Giant, may looked fierce, but he was a wise soul. He explained to my mother, the high priestess at the time, that they came to our land in hopes of finding paradise; away from their nations were war and battle was never ending. They brought us gifts of food and gold, bowing their heads in hope that they could stay. To which we accepted."

Sombra stared down, at a loss of words to what was described. It was very hard to imagine that their enemy once had dignity. But by looking into the faun eyes as memories flooded her sapphire orbs, it was clear she was telling the truth.

"Was it all a big lie to gain your trust?" Rainbow cut in, a look of fury in her expression. "There's no way these bastards just came in looking for peace. They had to be lying!"

Ewe would narrow her gaze up at Rainbow. "As I explained to Sombra, there's more to people than their appearance. And I can assure you that despite what they have become now, the Caribou were not a misogynistic race of barbarians." Her tone, while still gentle, held a firm grip of anger behind it that kept the Pegasus quiet.

"No... That all changed when Goudin's son usurper the throne.."

"His son?" AppleJack rose an eyebrow. "Who was his son?"

"Dainn."

All eyes looked to Sombra as he muttered the name. Ewe looked quiet surprise.

"Y-Yes.... How did you..?"

"You should be more careful with who you share your mind with" he scoffed, eyeing the faun with glowing red eyes as haze hissed from lids. "You never know who might be taking a peek.."

She clutched her pendent defensively, a knowing glare given to her before she nodded and continued.

"Yes... I knew Dainn. A scrawny thing he was. Barely any muscle to him and quite small compared to the warriors Goudin lead to battle. He was... an unusual fellow, had a twitch in his eye and looking at everything with.. paranoia. His father told us that war had not been kind to him and that hopefully by living a life of peace, it would heal his mind."

Sombra stroked his chin in thought, her depictions matching the vision he had of Dainn. This lowly caribou much smaller than the rest, and yet was the leader of their violent race.

"Wait... You said he usurped the throne from his father. How did he do it?"

Ewe held her pendent more tightly as she recalled her homeland, the caribou and the one responsible for this disaster.

"The Caribou were interested in our magic and wanted to learn form themselves. You see, the only way for you to tap into arcane magic is by discovering the core of your power. We call them 'Traits'."

"Traits?"

She nodded. "Traits are named through what kind of magic it controls based on their user's personality and emotional state. For example, my trait is called 'Nursery'. My magic can grow nature and plant-life as I will it. For defense, for offense, but mostly for healing purposes." she explained shortly before returning to the question at hand.

"Among the students my mother taught, Dainn was one of them. And while he was no fighter in battle, he was one of the more brilliant Caribou that could tap into Arcane magic almost easily. While he hadn't discovered his trait, he was certainly talented. But his new found talent was the catalyst to his dark ascension. He... developed feelings for me." She coughed, clearly uncomfortable in discussing this topic, but continued nonetheless.

"He thought I was the most beautiful out of my people and wished to have me as his queen once his father passed over. He thought that his new found prowess in Arcane magic would captivate me. So when I turned him down, it... shattered him to say the less. 'But I'm the most gifted of my race!' he tried to argue. 'My magic is only exceeding the strength of my father! I am clearly the superior choice in a mate! How can you refuse me?!' And as I told him I simply wasn't interested, he grew more and more... angry; swearing out slurs and promising me I would rule the day for defying him."

The sound of laughter interrupted her story as all eyes lead to Sombra; who was holding his chest to try and calm down from all the laughter escaping his voice.

"Hold on now.." he snickered. "You mean to tell me that this whole mess was because one insecure fuckwit couldn't handle being denied your cunt?! That... is honest the greatest and most pathetic reason to conquer a nation. Like, who would have thought..!"

"Sombra!" AppleJack yelled, glaring at him hard. "Have you no shame or respect?!"

"Oh come now, you have to admit; It's very amusing!" he sighed, his laughter dying but couldn't help the big grin on his face.

Ewe narrowed her eyes at him. "As funny as that may seem, I can assure you Sombra; What happened next was no laughing matter." This statement caused the stallion to lose his smirk as her expression darken.

"I didn't take Dainn's threats to seriously either... until he discovered his Trait. 'Overload' it was called upon reading from my mother's book. A powerful trait that allows the user's magic to overpower and influence other sources of magic. And it's exactly what Dainn did. He used his own magic to kill Goudin before us; announcing his ascension to the throne from a foolish king. He would then proclaim that we were deemed nothing more than harlots whose only purpose was to serve men or be punished."

"Many would voice their denial towards Dainn as the other caribou were enraged by the death of their king. But Dainn did not hesitate to attack his comrades for their defiance. We were helpless to watch, and my mother... Her eyes were full of guilt and shame. She must have felt at fault for what had become of this."

She clutched her pendant even tighter, starting to tremble a bit in her chair.

"Once Dainn had thrown his people into submitting to his will, we... we were next." she murmured. "All of the caribou, willing or not, would take each of us; strip away our clothes and defile our bodies. All my people. My sisters. My mother... All raped in a growing group of bulk and fur. Dainn, who was once a cowardly and paranoid creature, became a powerful and cruel monster; using his magic to take what he wanted from me. My body. My maidenhood. My very soul if he so pleased.."

AppleJack would place a hand over her shoulder in an attempt to comfort the poor Faun as she did her best to keep composer while going through these terrible memories. Memories very vivid in Sombra's mind. He felt it. The horror. The fear. The power of over following strength and control Dainn felt. All too familiar emotions he felt when he chained the ponies of the Crystal Empire and forced them under his hoof.

"Our once beautiful and peaceful land had become the working grounds for training camps and breeding stables. And our great temple... Built to bring thanks and worship to the ancients before us... now the throne room for Dainn and his concubines. Day.. Night.. It did not matter. We were forced to partake in his twisted desires until we were bloated with children; bred to bring warriors and future wives depending on gender. Dainn ushered in his age of male dominance, and any to oppose him would suffer in a way death would sound like the more 'peaceful' passing."

"But you escaped." Sombra cuts in. Ewe would rub away the tears from her eyes before nodding; looking back to the stallion's red orbs.

"One night, while Dainn and the guards were sleeping, my mother and a few servants managed to free me and sneak me out onto a boat. She told me to find land, find somewhere safe and warn them if ships from across the sea came to them. With a silent nod and one last hug, I was off as I watched the fearful glances and expressions grow smaller and smaller as I sailed away. It was the last time I saw my mother or sisters."

She gave a weary sigh before taking a drink from her own cup of water before she continued.

"No one believed me when I arrived to a far off town. I tried, plead for them to listen to my tale. But far to wrapped in their safety to hear about 'such disgusting stories of horrid beasts', I was only left to live alone; fearing the day they too would come for this land and it's people. And through weeks of sleepless nights, I realized that even the protectors of this land would fall. So... I needed to take action. I needed to prepare myself for that fateful day. And when it did eventually arrive.. I would be ready."

She would stand up now, causing the dark unicorn to raise up himself as their eyes locked with each other; as if connected to each other's thoughts and movements.

"I will use my trait to protect any who have fallen victim to Dainn's reign. Help them escape captivity to hide in this location." Ewe said, her voice much more strong than it was a few moments. "I, among other beings of Equestria, formed a resistance that would work to defeating the Caribou and retaking this land. I lost my home. I lost my family. I will not see the same happen for the ponies and mares here."

The Faun walked around her table as she stood closer to Sombra, looking up at him. "Despite your crimes, heinousness and similarities to Dainn, you are a pony of admirable ambition, Sombra. I see deep down you wish for the same things we do... Even if its for personal gain. But for that, you are welcome to stay here and assist however you may like." She bowed her head to him.

Grunting, the unicorn give a small nod. "I thank you for your hospitality, Miss Ewe. It is much appreciated. But I cant help but grow more curious about this... Arcane magic." AppleJack casted a glance Rainbow; who shared her worry and uneased about Sombra's statement. An all knowing smirk spread his lips as he continued.

"You said any being has access to this magic, correct? And even more once they've discovered a 'trait' of sorts..?"

Ewe nodded, her own smile spreading her lips. "You wish to learn this magic for yourself, I see. Yes..." Her eyes returned to stare deeply into his own eyes. "I see it... You have a very high potential to unlock so much magic within you, Sombra. Magic much more incredible and mysterious than the very shadows you cast."

"You see it! But what is it that you see? Tell me how I can unlock this magic!"

She shook her head. "It's not quiet as simple as you believe. Arcane magic is not like a spell you spend years studying to perfect. It will come naturally." She arched her eyebrow. "But you seem under the impression that I will teach you the ways of my people. To which I ask; Why should I allow the same risk of letting a stranger like you become another Dainn?"

His horn sparked in it's dark red aura, his eyes fixed in a deep glare.

"The sooner you throw away these similarities between Dainn and I, the easier that decision will be. A monster I may be, but I will not stand to have Equestria under the rule of some paranoid Incel!"

He placed an hand on her shoulder; causing AJ to nearly spring into action from him toughing the resistance leader in such a way before the Faun stopped her with an open hand

"You're not a fool. You know very well that this will give our side a much better chance in winning. I will ask you again, Lady Ewe. Tell me your secrets and how me the power of Arcane magic... Please.. If not for my sake, for their's.." he muttered the last word; having to resort to begging now. What has become of him since he fell so far?

Before Ewe could reply, the two mares from outside the tent came in. All eyes turned to them.

"Lady Ewe!" one saluted. "Apologies for interrupting, but our recon group is returning to base."

"Oh, thank goodness!" She sighed, pulling herself out of Sombra's grasp. "I will come to greet them shortly. Have they found any more mares or stragglers?"

"Yes, but that's not all, M'lady" the other mare said.

"Oh?"

"General Spike is also with them."

Author's Note

BTW, Not dead.

Just gotten really busy the last few years and have fallen out of being an MLP fan. But I did want to continue this story since so many seem to like it. Hopefully, the direction I'm taking this won't disappoint as much.

Sorry for the long wait! <3

Next Chapter: A Lion Among Sheep.